Nagara Architecture / North Indian Temple Style
Introduction
Nagara architecture is a style of Hindu temple architecture that developed in the northern Indian subcontinent between the 7th and 13th centuries. It is characterized by its tall, spire-like towers, which are often crowned with a kalasha, or finial. Nagara temples are typically built of sandstone or granite, and they are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
History
The Nagara style of architecture developed from the earlier Gupta style, which was characterized by its use of brick and its relatively simple forms. The Nagara style first appeared in the 7th century, and it quickly became the dominant style of temple architecture in northern India. The style reached its peak in the 10th and 11th centuries, and it continued to be used until the 13th century, when it was replaced by the Indo-Islamic style.
Characteristics
Nagara temples are typically characterized by their tall, spire-like towers, which are often crowned with a kalasha, or finial. The towers are typically made of sandstone or granite, and they are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temples are also typically surrounded by a wall, which may have one or more gateways.
Distribution
Nagara temples are found throughout northern India, from Gujarat in the west to Bengal in the east. The style is also found in Nepal and Pakistan.
Examples
Some of the most famous examples of Nagara architecture include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho, the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, and the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi.
Significance
Nagara architecture is an important part of the Indian cultural heritage. The style is a reflection of the Hindu religion and philosophy, and it is a testament to the artistic and architectural skills of the Indian people.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nagara architecture?
Nagara architecture is a style of Hindu temple architecture that developed in the northern Indian subcontinent between the 7th and 13th centuries. It is characterized by its tall, spire-like towers, which are often crowned with a kalasha, or finial. Nagara temples are typically built of sandstone or granite, and they are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
What are the characteristics of Nagara architecture?
Nagara temples are typically characterized by their tall, spire-like towers, which are often crowned with a kalasha, or finial. The towers are typically made of sandstone or granite, and they are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temples are also typically surrounded by a wall, which may have one or more gateways.
Where is Nagara architecture found?
Nagara temples are found throughout northern India, from Gujarat in the west to Bengal in the east. The style is also found in Nepal and Pakistan.
What are some examples of Nagara architecture?
Some of the most famous examples of Nagara architecture include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho, the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, and the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi.
What is the significance of Nagara architecture?
Nagara architecture is an important part of the Indian cultural heritage. The style is a reflection of the Hindu religion and philosophy, and it is a testament to the artistic and architectural skills of the Indian people.
MCQs
Nagara architecture is a style of Hindu temple architecture that developed in:
(a) The southern Indian subcontinent
(b) The northern Indian subcontinent
(c) The eastern Indian subcontinent
(d) The western Indian subcontinent
Nagara temples are typically characterized by:
(a) Their tall, spire-like towers
(b) Their intricate carvings and sculptures
(c) Their surrounding walls
(d) All of the above
Nagara architecture is found throughout:
(a) Northern India
(b) Southern India
(c) Eastern India
(d) All of the above
Some of the most famous examples of Nagara architecture include:
(a) The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho
(b) The Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur
(c) The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi
(d) All of the above
Nagara architecture is an important part of the Indian cultural heritage because:
(a) It is a reflection of the Hindu religion and philosophy
(b) It is a testament to the artistic and architectural skills of the Indian people
(c) Both (a) and (b)
Conclusion
Nagara architecture is a beautiful and complex style of temple architecture that is found throughout northern India.