Noun
mantapa (plural mantapas)
Alternative spelling of mandapa
A bay is a square or rectangular compartment in the hall (Foekema 1996, p93) The shape of the open mantapa is best described as staggered-square and is the style used in most Hoysala temples. Source: Internet
The entrance to the mantapa normally has a highly ornate overhead lintel called a makaratorana (makara is an imaginary beast and torana is an overhead decoration). Source: Internet
One decorated roof tier runs on top of the wall of a closed mantapa above the heavy eaves of an open mantapa and above the porches. Source: Internet
Temples that are not built on a jagati can have steps flanked by elephant balustrades ( parapets ) that lead to the mantapa from ground level. Source: Internet
The closed mantapa is connected to the shrine(s) by a vestibule, a square area that also connects the shrines. Source: Internet
The closed mantapa, well decorated inside and out, is larger than the vestibule connecting the shrine and the mantapa and has four lathe-turned pillars to support the ceiling, which may be deeply domed. Source: Internet