Basic Features of Temple Architecture in India
The basic features of Hindu temple architecture in India are as follows:
1. Sanctum or Garbhagriha
It began as a little cubicle with a single entrance and gradually expanded into a larger room. The main god is meant to be located in the garbhagriha and is the focus of significant ritual attention.
2. Mandapa
The entrance to the temple, known as a mandapa, maybe a colonnaded hall or a veranda that may accommodate a large number of worshipers.
3. Shikhara/Vimana
Usually found in freestanding temples, the tower resembles a mountain and is called a vimana in South India and can be shaped like a curving Shikhar in North India.
4. Dhvaj
A standard pillar, or dhvaj, is placed axially in front of the shrine, along with the Vahan, the temple’s principal deity’s mount or vehicle.
Temple Architecture in India
Temple architecture in India plays an important role in the preservation and development of the country’s cultural heritage. The temple designs in India are a combination of several architectural styles. India has two main types of temple architecture: Nagara in the north and Dravidian in the south. There’s also a third style called Vesara, which is a mix of both Nagara and Dravidian styles and is sometimes found to exist independently.
In this article, we will learn about Temple Architecture in India, the features, types, and different styles of temple architecture.
Table of Content
- About Temple Architecture in India
- Basic Features of Temple Architecture in India
- Types of Temple Architecture in India
- Different Styles of Temple Architecture in India
- Temple Architecture in India UPSC