In Dravida style of architecture, the front wall has an entrance gateway in its centre, which is known as a ____.
Gopuram
The question tests a core feature of the Dravida (South Indian) temple architectural style.
In the Dravida style, the temple complex is enclosed by walls, and the front wall has an ornate entrance gateway placed at its centre.
This monumental entrance tower is called the Gopuram. Over time the gopurams grew taller and more decorated than the main shrine itself, as seen in temples like Madurai's Meenakshi Temple.
'Pada' refers to the base or foot of the structure, not a gateway, so it is incorrect.
'Prastara' is the entablature (the horizontal band above the pillars), which is a structural element and not the entrance.
'Griva' means the 'neck' portion of the vimana (the tower above the sanctum), so it too is unrelated to the entrance wall.
Hence the entrance gateway in the centre of the front wall in Dravida architecture is the Gopuram.
Similar Questions
The Kailasa Temple built in the 8th century is in which of the following state?
What was the main function of ‘Chaityas’ in Buddhist architecture?
The red sandstone tower of Qutb Minar has _____ meters diameter at its base.
The Gwalior Fort, was initiated by _____ who finished the fortification system around the plateau in 773CE.
Important Questions from Architecture
The idols of Lord Jagnnath, Subhadra and Balbhadra in sanctum sanctorum at Jagannath Puri Temple are made up of
At which place Jajalladev Mahotsava organised?
What is the other name of the Sati temple located in Keshkal valley of this State ?
With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements :
1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.
2. It is the only circular temple built in India.
3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region
4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the India Parliament building.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Which one of the following statements is correct?
