This late nineteenth
century temple was built by Maharaj Kulachandra (1890-91 A.D.) for the
worship of Lord Sanamahi, an important household diety of the Meiteis.
The temple is located
next to the western entrance of 1st Bn. Manipur Rifles cantonment at
Imphal. The site was originally known as Tolong Yumpham whereas today
it is popularly known as Haying Khongbal. The protected area is 20.05
x 19.20 sq.m.
The external
feature of the temple is highlighted by : (i) pedestal on which the
sanctum cube stands (ii) octagonal sanctum cube (iii) Gothic
type roof and (iv) caping stone or Amalaka Sila.
The
peculiarity of the temple is marked by an amalgamation of European
conception of architecture highlighted by the Gothic tower appearance
of the temple, and the Nagra style of medieval Indian architecture (Mutua
Museum Bulletin No. 5, p.16.).
