This intricately carved wooden  piece of a Dwarapalaka – gatekeeper of the abode of gods or temples is from South India.

Similar carvings were used at the entrances of temples and decorate chariots. Temple cars or chariots also called as “Rathas” are vehicles used to carry idols of Hindu gods in processions on annual festival days. These are usually made of wood and in most cases have exquisite and intricate carvings on multiple set-in panels. The carvings can be images depicting stories from puranas, deities, mythical animals like Yali, ganas, dancers, real animals etc.

These rathas decorated with flowers and jewels are pulled with thick ropes by hundreds of devotees.Rathas from different parts of India vary in style and size.  The anglo-Indian term “Juggernaut” was inspired by the large temple cars at Jagannath temple, Puri. The chariot at Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu is said to be the largest – 29 metres tall and weighing over 300 tonnes.

This wooden carving is a great piece to add antique charm to your interiors.