Doors and doorways have different interpretations depending on the architecture. In the case of temple architecture, they provide a grand entry to a spiritual space that houses the Supreme. Hindu temples have doors/doorways in all 4 directions indicating that everyone from everywhere is welcome. In India there are several houses with doors constructed out of solid teak or rosewood with artwork embedded in it. Here are some interesting doors that we spotted.
Monolith stone door in Mahanavami Dibba, Hampi. These doors were located in the ruins and have been preserved. The doors have carvings just like wooden doors with bolts and pivot shafts at the end. These doors remind us of the exquisite craftmanship during the Vijayanagara period.
Beautiful wooden doors in a house more than 100 years old in Ottapalam, India. These doors are made of solid teak wood with decorations. The doors add majesty to this wonderful house, and they are still functional.
Elephant Stable - Hampi, constructed in the 15th Century. This is one of the structures that reflects Indo Islamic architecture. This is a huge rectangular building (even though the picture represents only a portion of the entire building) with arched doorways for the elephants to enter. The chambers inside are interconnected.
Archways of Lotus Mahal, Hampi. Lotus Mahal with its beautiful archways is the highlight in the Zenana Enclosure. This structure was used as a socializing area for the women in the royal family. The structure resembles the traditional Mughal architecture.
Grand entry to the famous Virupaksha Temple, Hampi.
Interesting doors surrounded by murals in Bernal Heights, San Francisco. The mural paintings give a 3D effect to the structure.
Excellent writeup AP. Your presentation is at once historical as well as informative. The accompanying photos give an added flavour to your writeup. Subramanian A.