Unique Features of Dravida, Nagara, and Vesara Types of Hindu Temples
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| Temple design styles. /iasnext.com/ |
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| South India Dravida style. iasgyan.in/blogs |
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| Dravida stle S. Indian temples. pwonlyias.com |
1. Dravida Style
The Dravida style, also known as the South Indian temple architecture, developed primarily in Tamil Nadu and parts of Karnataka. It emerged under the patronage of the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, and later the Vijayanagara Empire. Dravida temples are characterized by their distinct pyramid-shaped towers known as vimanas and the emphasis on monumental scale and grandeur.
Key Features: Vimana: The most prominent feature of Dravida temples is the vimana, a towering structure directly above the sanctum (garbhagriha). The vimana is pyramidal, rising in a series of diminishing tiers adorned with sculptures and carvings. Gopuram (Gateway Towers): Large, elaborately decorated gateway towers (gopurams) are a significant aspect of Dravidian architecture, especially in later periods. These gopurams, often taller than the central vimana, serve as the main entrances to the temple complex. Mandapams and Halls: Temples typically have multiple pillared halls or mandapams (prayer halls), such as the Mahamandapa (great hall) and the Kalyana Mandapa (marriage hall). Compound Walls and Enclosures: Dravidian temples are usually enclosed by high compound walls with various inner courtyards and sub-shrines. Water Tanks or Sacred Ponds: Temples often include a sacred water tank or pond used for rituals.
Example: The Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, built by the Chola King Rajaraja I, is a classic example of Dravidian architecture. The temple features a 216-foot tall vimana with finely detailed carvings and an enormous Nandi (bull) statue at its entrance.
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| Basics of Nagara styles. asgyan.in |
2. Nagara Style: The Nagara style, or the North Indian temple architecture, is predominant in the central, western, and northern parts of India, extending from the Himalayas to the Deccan Plateau. This style is known for its curvilinear shikhara (spire), rising above the garbhagriha, and the horizontal emphasis on ornamentation.
Key Features: Shikhara: The hallmark of Nagara architecture is the shikhara, a curvilinear tower rising vertically above the sanctum. It often ends in an amalaka, a fluted, disc-like stone, and a kalasha (finial). Rekha-Prasada and Phamsana Types: The Nagara style has multiple sub-types, including the Rekha-Prasada (curvilinear) and Phamsana (pyramidal) styles. These variations are based on the shape and outline of the shikhara. Jagati (Platform): Many Nagara temples are built on a raised platform or jagati, which adds to their grandeur. Multiple Shikharas: Larger Nagara temples often have a series of smaller shikharas around the main tower, creating a clustered appearance. Elaborate Carvings: The walls and pillars are adorned with intricate carvings of deities, celestial beings, and mythological stories.
Example: The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, is a quintessential example of the Nagara style. Its towering shikhara, richly adorned with erotic sculptures and intricate carvings, exemplifies the artistic excellence of this style.
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| Vesara style, Pattangal, etc./blogvirasatehind.wordpress.com |
3. Vesara Style: The Vesara style is a hybrid form that developed in the Deccan region, primarily in present-day Karnataka and parts of Maharashtra. It emerged as a synthesis of Dravidian and Nagara styles under the patronage of the Chalukyas, Hoysalas, and Rashtrakutas. Vesara temples are distinguished by their balanced combination of elements from both northern and southern architectures.
Key Features: Mixed Shikhara Design: The shikhara in Vesara temples is neither purely curvilinear like Nagara nor purely pyramidal like Dravida. It often starts as a Nagara-style tower and transitions into a Dravidian pyramidal structure. Star-Shaped and Multi-Angular Ground Plans: Vesara temples frequently feature star-shaped or multi-angular ground plans, creating intricate and visually striking layouts. Intricate Ornamentation: The walls, pillars, and ceilings are richly adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and friezes depicting deities, animals, and mythological scenes. Lathe-Turned Pillars and Horizontal Bands: Characteristic lathe-turned pillars and horizontal banded designs are typical of this style.
Example: The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, Karnataka, built during the Hoysala period, showcases the Vesara style's unique blend of northern and southern features. The temple's star-shaped plan, intricately carved walls, and mixed shikhara make it a perfect illustration of Vesara architecture.
Conclusion:
The Dravida, Nagara, and Vesara styles represent three distinct approaches to temple design, each reflecting the geographical, cultural, and historical influences of their respective regions. While Dravida temples emphasize monumental scale and symmetrical layouts, Nagara temples are characterized by their elegant shikharas and ornate carvings. The Vesara style, as a hybrid, beautifully blends elements from both, resulting in a unique architectural form that stands out in the Indian subcontinent.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple_architecture#:~:text=Architecture
https://iasnext.com/temple-architecture-art-and-culture-upsc/
https://www.iasgyan.in/blogs/temple-architecture-of-india
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