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 I
was awe-struck and stood speechless looking at the world heritage
site which is slowly gaining prominence and importance. Siem Reap,
which houses the famous Angkor Wat temples, is a city steeped in
history and equally strong in contemporary comforts and attractions.
The temple spires that pierce the sky mesmerised
me. The place is a haven for nature enthusiasts as the tourists have
to walk amidst thick vegetation to explore the temples.
In some temples there were electrifying moments
of adventure travel.
The piece de resistance of architecture is the
Angkor Wat. Built by Suryavarman-II, the temple is the single
largest religious monument ever built. It is held by many as the
largest and most exquisitely executed religious building ever built
by man.
Its stately façade and large moat are sublime and
beautiful. After crossing the moat we should be prepared for a
fairly long walk. At one side of the entrance is an alluring lily
pond. The stone balustrades on both sides resemble a naga or a snake
deity. Its galleries, bas relief and exterior carvings were covered
with gold once upon a time.
 The
modern Khmers consider the place a symbol of their culture. The
religious revere the site.
Suryavarman's artisans took nearly 40 years to
complete this temple complex. In its central spot is housed an image
of Shiva. The staircase leading to the innermost gallery is steep.
There are towers at each of the four corners of the innermost
gallery and the central spot rises like the peak of Mount Meru, the
very centre of the world.
The grand ceremony of uniting the kings and the
gods took place here. Carvings of devatas are seen throughout the
temple. Scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata are engraved on the
walls which make this a holy citadel.
Besides the disfigured icons of Shiva and Vishnu
there is a tall image of a religious preceptor. Who is he?
(To be continued)
Usha Raja
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