Temple Architecture Styles

Indian temple architecture, emerging post-Gupta period, have been codified into three primary stylistic orders: Nagara (North Indian), Dravida (South Indian), and Vesara (Deccan/hybrid). These styles were not merely aesthetic but reflected regional political patronage, religious doctrines, and socio-economic contexts, providing enduring models for Hindu sacred space and artistic expression.

Evolution and Defining Elements

Nagara (North Indian)

  • Geographical Area & Patronage: Area between the Himalayas and the Vindhyas. Patronized by Gurjara-Pratiharas, Chandellas (Khajuraho), Solankis (Gujarat), and the Ganga Dynasty (Odisha).
  • Curvilinear Shikhara: The most distinctive feature is the curved tower over the main shrine (Garbhagriha), which slopes inwards, culminating in an ....
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Indian History