Hindu Temple Architecture Basics

Overview

Hindu temple architecture is a style of architecture that originated in the Indian subcontinent and is characterized by its unique decorative and symbolic features.

Basic Elements

• Garbhagriha: The sanctum sanctorum, where the deity is enshrined.
• Mandapa: The assembly hall, where devotees gather.
• Shikhara: The tower, which rises above the sanctum sanctorum.
• Vimana: The pyramidal structure, which surrounds the sanctum sanctorum.

Architectural Styles

• Nagara (North Indian): Characterized by a curvilinear tower (shikhara) and a square sanctum sanctorum.
• Dravida (South Indian): Characterized by a pyramidal tower (vimana) and a rectangular sanctum sanctorum.
• Vesara (Mixed): A blend of Nagara and Dravida styles.

Decorative Features

• Carvings: Intricate carvings of deities, mythological creatures, and foliage.
• Sculptures: Figures of deities, animals, and other mythological creatures.
• Ornate Pillars: Elaborately carved pillars, often decorated with mythological scenes.

Regional Variations

• Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh): Famous for its erotic carvings and intricate sculptures.
• Kerala (South India): Characterized by the use of timber and tile work.
• Orissa (East India): Known for its intricate carvings and ornate temples.

Symbolism

• Mount Meru: The mythical mountain, which the temple represents.
• Deity: The enshrined deity, which is often depicted in various forms.
• Yantras: Geometric symbols, which represent the deity and the universe.

Hindu Temple Architecture

Basic Elements

• Garbhagriha is the sanctum sanctorum, where the deity is enshrined.
• Mandapa is the assembly hall, where devotees gather.
• Shikhara is the tower that rises above the sanctum sanctorum.
• Vimana is the pyramidal structure that surrounds the sanctum sanctorum.

Architectural Styles

• Nagara style (North Indian) is characterized by a curvilinear tower (shikhara) and a square sanctum sanctorum.
• Dravida style (South Indian) is characterized by a pyramidal tower (vimana) and a rectangular sanctum sanctorum.
• Vesara style is a blend of Nagara and Dravida styles.

Decorative Features

• Intricate carvings depict deities, mythological creatures, and foliage.
• Sculptures include figures of deities, animals, and mythological creatures.
• Ornate pillars are elaborately carved and often decorated with mythological scenes.

Regional Variations

• Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh) is famous for its erotic carvings and intricate sculptures.
• Kerala (South India) is characterized by the use of timber and tile work.
• Orissa (East India) is known for its intricate carvings and ornate temples.

Symbolism

• Mount Meru is the mythical mountain that the temple represents.
• Deities are enshrined in the temple and depicted in various forms.
• Yantras are geometric symbols that represent the deity and the universe.