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.

Explore the fundamental elements and styles of Hindu temple architecture, including the sanctum sanctorum, assembly hall, tower, and pyramidal structure.