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Gayatri Temple
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Gayatri Temple
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Gayatri Temple
INDONESIA, East Java, Bayalangu
Also known as Prajnaparamitapuri (Prajnaparamita Bodhisattva) Temple, the Gayatri Temple is believed to have been built in 1362 by King Hayam Wuruk (reigned 1350- 1389) of the Majapahit Empire in memory of his grandmother, Queen Gayatri.
The temple was built on a two-tier platform constructed in red brick. On the second tier there are over 16 pedestal stones used as bases for pillars, which probably served to support the original roof. There is a date inscribed on one of the pedestal stones using the Saka calendar that is equivalent to the year 1369, which probably refers to the year in which the temple was renovated. The original building, which stood on the platform, no longer exists. At present, there is only a small, simple pavilion, which shelters a statue of Prajnaparamita Bodhisattva. The figure sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne. Several parts of the sculpture are missing, including the head, the lower left arm, the right palm, and the mandorla. According to the Javanese epic poem Nagarakrtagama, this statue is an incarnation of Queen Gayatri. |
