The correct answer is: c) Dravidian and Nagara styles.
The Eastern Chalukyas were a dynasty that ruled over parts of southern India from the 6th to the 12th centuries. They were known for their unique architectural style, which blended elements from the Dravidian and Nagara styles of temple architecture.
Dravidian architecture is a style of temple architecture that is found in southern India. It is characterized by its use of massive stone blocks, its intricate carvings, and its towering gopurams (gateway towers). Nagara architecture is a style of temple architecture that is found in northern India. It is characterized by its use of red sandstone, its intricate carvings, and its tall shikharas (spires).
The Eastern Chalukyas combined elements of both Dravidian and Nagara architecture to create their own unique style. Their temples are characterized by their use of both red sandstone and granite, their intricate carvings, and their tall shikharas. Some of the most famous examples of Eastern Chalukya architecture include the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, the Pattadakal Temple Complex, and the Mahadeva Temple in Itagi.
The Eastern Chalukya style of architecture had a profound influence on the development of temple architecture in southern India. Their temples are some of the most beautiful and impressive examples of Indian architecture.
Here is a brief description of each option:
- Option a) North and South Indian temple styles: This option is incorrect because the Eastern Chalukyas did not blend elements from North and South Indian temple styles. Their temples are clearly in the Dravidian style.
- Option b) Buddhist and Jain architectural styles: This option is incorrect because the Eastern Chalukyas did not blend elements from Buddhist and Jain architectural styles. Their temples are clearly in the Hindu style.
- Option c) Dravidian and Nagara styles: This option is correct because the Eastern Chalukyas did blend elements from Dravidian and Nagara styles. Their temples are a unique blend of these two styles.
- Option d) Indo-Islamic styles: This option is incorrect because the Eastern Chalukyas did not blend elements from Indo-Islamic styles. Their temples are clearly in the Hindu style.