A kalasha is a finial, generally in the form of metal or stone spire, used to top the domes of Hindu temples.[1] Kalashas as architectural feature has been used at least before the first millennium BCE and were made of terracotta and wood during this early period. They were used as decorative element placed on top of various types of buildings.[2] They are mainly restricted to temple architecture in the contemporary period.
Present in the form of an inverted pot with a point facing the sky, kalashas are prominent elements of temple architecture. According to the Aitareya Brahmana, a golden kalasha is regarded to represent a sun upon the summit of a deity's dwelling, the temple.[3]
Most kalashams are made of metal and some of stone. The view of the gopuram (temple tower) is one of the important rituals of Hindu worship along with view of the dhvaja stambha (temple flag mast). These gopurams are usually topped with ornamental kalashas. Kalashas are consecrated during the kumbhabhishekam ceremony and are venerated during pujas.[4]
There are four types of kalashas:
Kalashas are mostly made of metal. The main metals used are bronze and copper. In famous temples like Tirupati, noble metals like gold and silver are used. Platinum is rarely used.
In ancient times, temples carved out of stone had stone kalashas. Many temples like Ellora Caves, Hampi and Mahabalipuram still have these stone kalashas. In parts of South India, kalashas made of wood are common.