<P> The four cardinal directions help create the axis of a Hindu temple, around which is formed a perfect square in the space available . The circle of mandala circumscribes the square . The square is considered divine for its perfection and as a symbolic product of knowledge and human thought, while circle is considered earthly, human and observed in everyday life (moon, sun, horizon, water drop, rainbow). Each supports the other . The square is divided into perfect 64 (or in some cases 81) sub-squares called padas . Each pada is conceptually assigned to a symbolic element, sometimes in the form of a deity . The central square (s) of the 64 or 81 grid is dedicated to the Brahman (not to be confused with Brahmin), and are called Brahma padas . </P> <P> The 49 grid design is called Sthandila and of great importance in creative expressions of Hindu temples in South India, particularly in' ' Prakaras' ' . The symmetric Vastu - purusa - mandala grids are sometimes combined to form a temple superstructure with two or more attached squares . The temples face sunrise, and the entrance for the devotee is typically this east side . The mandala pada facing sunrise is dedicated to Surya deity (Sun). The Surya pada is flanked by the padas of Satya (Truth) deity on one side and Indra (king of gods) deity on other . The east and north faces of most temples feature a mix of gods and demi - gods; while west and south feature demons and demi - gods related to the underworld . This vastu purusha mandala plan and symbolism is systematically seen in ancient Hindu temples on Indian subcontinent as well as those in southeast Asia, with regional creativity and variations . </P> <P> Beneath the mandala's central square (s) is the space for the formless shapeless all pervasive all connecting Universal Spirit, the highest reality, the purusha . This space is sometimes referred to as garbha - griya (literally womb house)--a small, perfect square, windowless, enclosed space without ornamentation that represents universal essence . In or near this space is typically a murti (idol). This is the main deity idol, and this varies with each temple . Often it is this idol that gives the temple a local name, such as Visnu temple, Krishna temple, Rama temple, Narayana temple, Siva temple, Lakshmi temple, Ganesha temple, Durga temple, Hanuman temple, Surya temple, and others . It is this garbha - griya which devotees seek for' ' darsana' ' (literally, a sight of knowledge, or vision). </P> <P> Above the vastu - purusha - mandala is a superstructure with a dome called Shikhara in north India, and Vimana in south India, that stretches towards the sky . Sometimes, in makeshift temples, the dome may be replaced with symbolic bamboo with few leaves at the top . The vertical dimension's cupola or dome is designed as a pyramid, conical or other mountain - like shape, once again using principle of concentric circles and squares (see below). Scholars suggest that this shape is inspired by cosmic mountain of Meru or Himalayan Kailasa, the abode of gods according to Vedic mythology . </P>

What were the activities related with the temples in south india