Pudhu Mandapam

Pudhu Mandapam is a book shaped by the echoes of a forgotten monument. Once a symbol of divine artistry, the hall has been scarred by neglect and vandalism. This project set out to honour its craftsmanship in its present state, capturing its lost grandeur through immersive photography and a layout conceived as a guided walkthrough.

A custom map with icons for six sculpture types helps readers navigate the space, placed on the cover flap so it stays visible throughout. Instead of conventional page numbers, pillar markers guide the journey through the hall. The black and copper palette departs from traditional depictions of sacred architecture, evoking both the monument’s decay and its enduring spirit.

Every image flows into the next, maintaining visual continuity, while insights from the author and experts create thoughtful pauses that deepen the narrative.