| Title | घंटीदार स्तंभ (Belled Piers)Rare Ghaṃṭīdār stambha Belled Piers |
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| Description | Belḍa Piyarasa (Belled Piers), known in Indic languages as *Ghaṇṭākāra Stambha* (घंटाकार स्तंभ) or "bell-shaped pillar," are reinforced concrete [1] deep foundation elements employed to enhance load-bearing capacity, particularly in expansive soils. Their construction involves excavating a shaft and then enlarging the base into a bell shape, typically with a diameter 2-3 times the shaft. The concrete, with compressive strengths ranging from 20-40 MPa, is derived from cement, aggregates (sourced from regional quarries across the Indian subcontinent), and reinforcing steel. While a relatively modern construction technique (20th century CE onwards), the concept echoes ancient Indic architectural principles of load distribution, seen in the *adhiṣṭhāna* (base) designs of temples. Conservation efforts at heritage sites often utilize Belḍa Piyarasa to stabilize existing structures without disrupting the archaeological context. Durability depends on concrete mix design and environmental factors; proper drainage and protection against sulfate attack are crucial for longevity. Restoration projects require careful assessment of soil conditions and pier design to ensure compatibility with the original structure. |
| Also Known As | Belled Piers Ghaṃṭīdār stambha Belled Piers Bell-shaped Piers Flared Piers घंटीदार खंभा घंटाकार स्तंभ घंटाकार खंभा कलश स्तंभ कलश खंभा घंटीनुमा स्तंभ घंटीनुमा खंभा |
| Tags | Belled Piers Foundation Reinforced Concrete Deep Foundation |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-120180206-20-11-25-BA |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/belled-piers |
| API Endpoint | https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/belled-piers |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 1 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Reinforced Concrete |
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| Regions | India |
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| Time Periods | 20th Century CE - Present |
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| Sources | Construction Sites |
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| Properties | Bearing capacity dependent on soil type Bell diameter typically 2-3 times shaft diameter Concrete strength: 20-40 MPa |
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| Uses | Deep foundations for heritage structures Supporting heavy loads in construction Foundation solution for expansive soils |
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| Materials | Reinforced Concrete Steel |
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| Styles | Modern Architecture |
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| Categories | Modern Temples Infrastructure |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Geotechnical Engineering Handbooks | Technical Manual | Foundation design |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Meenakshi Temple Pearland | Primary | 100% |