Abstract
The Rani Gumpha, or Queen’s Cavern, was built by artist–king of Kalinga, Kharavela (ca. 200–100 B.C.). It is a rock cut structure, carved into Udayagiri hill. As in ancient Greek and Roman theaters, the entire performance space of the Rani Gumpa is backed by a decorated facade, and it is remarkably similar to Greek theaters of the Hellenistic period, having both an upper and lower level for playing. There are acoustical chambers behind each level as well as on either side, and a special ‘‘cantor’s chamber’’ stage left on the lower level. The effect on the voice is astonishing. This is a rock cut acoustical installation analogous to that described by Vitruvius in Book V, Chaps. 5 and 8, of his de Architectura, where he speaks of vessels placed in Greek and Roman theaters for the same purpose. We have created a computerized model of the Ranim Gumpha, using CATT Acoustic. We have taken acoustic measurements of the site, using Aurora Sofware package. Our results indicate that the Rani Gumpha is an acoustical performance site, sharing characteristics of the classical Greek and Roman theaters of approximately the same period.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.