Which of the following is NOT correctly matched?
Kashmiri style: It is purely a local style with no traces of any influences from the outside world.
Identifying the Incorrect Statement on Indian Temple Architecture Styles
This question asks us to identify the statement that does NOT correctly match a specific Indian temple architecture style with its characteristics. Let's examine each option based on common knowledge of these styles.
Analysis of Temple Architecture Style Statements
We will evaluate each statement provided in the options:
- Nagara style: The base of the Nagara temples is square with a number of projections in the middle of each side giving it a cruciform shape.
This statement accurately describes a common characteristic of the Nagara style of temple architecture, which is prevalent in Northern India. The projections on the square base, often called *rathas*, indeed create a cruciform or stellar plan in many cases.
- Dravida style: The most important feature of this style is its pyramidal shikaras.
This is a defining feature of the Dravida style of temple architecture, found predominantly in Southern India. The *shikara* (spire) in Dravida style is typically pyramidal, consisting of progressively smaller storeys or *talas*. This contrasts sharply with the curvilinear *shikara* of the Nagara style.
- Kashmiri style: It is purely a local style with no traces of any influences from the outside world.
This statement is incorrect. While Kashmiri architecture has unique local elements, it shows clear influences from various sources, including the Gandhara school of art, Gupta architecture, and even Greco-Roman styles in some decorative elements, especially in its earlier phases. It was not purely isolated from external influences.
- Vasara style: It is a hybrid of northern and southern styles.
This statement correctly defines the Vasara style (also sometimes called Vesara style). This style, primarily seen in the Deccan region, is considered a blend of the Nagara (Northern) and Dravida (Southern) temple architecture styles, incorporating elements from both.
Conclusion on the Incorrect Match
Based on the analysis, the statement about the Kashmiri style claiming it is purely local with no outside influences is factually incorrect. Kashmiri temple architecture, like many regional styles, evolved through interaction and influence from broader artistic and architectural trends.
Therefore, the statement that is NOT correctly matched is the one describing the Kashmiri style.
| Temple Style | Key Characteristics | Correctness of Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Nagara style | Square base with projections (cruciform plan), curvilinear shikara. | Statement is correct. |
| Dravida style | Pyramidal shikara, presence of elaborate gatehouses (gopurams). | Statement is correct. |
| Kashmiri style | Unique regional style, influenced by Gandhara, Gupta, and other styles. | Statement is incorrect. |
| Vasara style | Hybrid of Nagara and Dravida styles. | Statement is correct. |
Revision Table: Indian Temple Architecture
| Style | Region | Shikara Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nagara | Northern India | Curvilinear | Square base with projections, Mandapa before garbhagriha. |
| Dravida | Southern India | Pyramidal (Vimana) | Elaborate gopurams, surrounding walls, tank, often multiple storeys. |
| Vasara | Deccan (Central India) | Often a mix or specific types like Phamsana/Kadalika | Hybrid features of both Nagara and Dravida styles. |
| Kashmiri | Kashmir Valley | Steep roofs, sometimes pyramidal/conical | Wooden construction influences, unique porticoes, Trefoil arches. |
Additional Information on Temple Architecture Styles
Understanding the nuances of Indian temple architecture requires looking at the geographical, historical, and cultural context. Styles evolved over centuries, often showing regional variations and influences.
- Kashmiri Architecture Influences: The Kashmiri style, particularly from the Karkota period onwards, shows notable influences from Gandhara sculpture and architecture (which itself had Greco-Roman elements) and the Gupta style from North India. Features like the trefoil arch, elaborate porticoes, and the presence of peristyles around the main shrine distinguish it.
- Vasara Style Debate: While commonly understood as a hybrid, some scholars view the Vasara style, particularly associated with the Chalukyas and Hoysalas, as an independent style with its own evolutionary path, rather than just a simple mix. However, the hybrid description serves well for a basic understanding.
- Sub-styles: Within the broad categories of Nagara and Dravida, there are numerous sub-styles based on dynasties, regions, and time periods (e.g., Odishan Nagara, Khajuraho Nagara, Pallava Dravida, Chola Dravida, Nayaka Dravida).
Studying these styles helps in appreciating the rich diversity and evolution of temple building traditions across India.
Important Questions from Temple Architecture and Regional Styles
The Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was constructed during the reign of which dynasty?
Which of the following temples are brick-temples?
(A) Bhitargaon temple, Kanpur
(B) Parsurameswara temple, Bhubaneshwar
(C) Laxmana temple, Khajuraho
(D) Laxmana temple, Sirpur
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
In the context of history of art arrange the following in chronological order, starting from the earliest:
(A) Bhumara
(B) Bharhut
(C) Jaggeyapeta
(D) Tanjavur
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Identify the temple from the group of temples at Mahakuteshwara near Badami, comprising a sanctum and a portico which is of some importance.
Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?
