Dvarapala

A dvarapala is a statue or carving of a big, strong guardian who stands at the entrance of important buildings like temples or palaces.

Just like how mommy or daddy might stand guard outside a door to make sure no one comes in who shouldn't be there, the dvarapala is there to protect the important building from anything bad that might try to enter.

The dvarapala is usually really tall and muscular, and might have a scary face or weapons like a sword or club to scare away any bad guys. They are often depicted with really big eyebrows and large, intense eyes that watch over the entrance.

Some people also believe that the dvarapala is not just a statue, but that it also has special powers that can help protect the building from harm or bring good luck to those who enter.