GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Temple Architecture in India | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Q1: The distinct architectural style of temple construction in different parts of India was a result of geographical, ethnic, racial, historic and linguistic diversities. Comment. (UPSC GS 1 Mains)

Ans: In India, each region and period has produced its own distinct style of temples, characterized by regional variations. However, the basic form of a Hindu temple comprises the following elements:

• Garbhagriha: A cave-like sanctum, which is a small cubicle with a single entrance where the main icon is housed.
• Mandapa: The entrance to the temple, which may be a portico or a colonnaded hall.
• Shikhara: Freestanding temples typically feature a mountain-like spire, which can take the shape of a curving shikhara or Vimana.

The broad orders of temples in India are classified into different styles:

Nagara Style

This architectural style was prevalent in northern India. Temples were commonly built on an elevated stone platform. Earlier temples featured a single tower (shikhara), while later ones included multiple towers. The garbhagriha is always located directly beneath the tallest tower. Depending on the shikhara's design, these can be known by various regional names. The most common type, known as Latina, has a square base with walls that curve inward to a point at the top. Other types include:

• Phamsana: Characterized by broad and shorter buildings, with roofs made up of several slabs that do not curve inward.
• Valabhi: Rectangular buildings with roofs that rise into a vaulted chamber.

Within the Nagara style, various divisions of walls into vertical planes called rathas can be observed, such as Triratha, Pancharatha, and Saptaratha. All shikharas in this style culminate in a horizontal fluted disc called an amalak, topped with a kalash or vase. Notable examples include the Vishwanath Temple in Khajuraho, the Lingaraj Temple in Odisha, and the Sun Temple in Modhera.

The Nagara school further developed sub-schools:

• Odisha School: Features lavishly decorated exterior walls and plain interiors with no pillars.
• Khajuraho School/Chandel School: Developed by the Chandela rulers, known for both interior and exterior wall decorations, lacking boundary walls.
• Solanki School: Prominent in Gujarat, featuring stepped tanks with small temples on the steps.

Dravidian Style

This style of temple architecture in South India reached its peak under the Chola dynasty and is considered the oldest architectural style. Large temple complexes enclosed by compound walls also served as administrative centres. Key features include:

• Gopuram: Massive gateways that are part of the structure.
• Vimana: The main temple tower, resembling a stepped pyramid that rises geometrically rather than curving.

The term shikhara is specifically used for the crowning element at the top of the temple, called the Stupika or an octagonal cupola. Dvarapala (doorkeepers) are commonly found guarding the temples, which also feature large water reservoirs or temple tanks. Subsidiary shrines may be incorporated within or located distinct from the main temple, as seen in the Gangaikondacholapuram Temple and the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur.

Deccan Styles

These styles were inspired by both northern and southern Indian architecture and are known as Vesara. This style comprises two main components: Vimana and Mandapa, joined by an Antarala. Vesara architecture typically lacks a covered ambulatory around the sanctum, and the pillars, door frames, and ceilings are often intricately carved. An example of this style is the Lad Khan Temple at Aihole.

Thus, it can be concluded that temple architecture in India was significantly influenced by the geographical, ethnic, racial, historical, and linguistic diversities of the subcontinent.