24 Questions
In which region are Vesara-style temples primarily found?
Central India
What is the distinctive feature of Vesara style of temple architecture?
Combination of Nagara and Dravidian architectural traditions
What is the meaning of the term 'Vesara'?
Mule
During which time period were Vesara-style temples primarily constructed in the Deccan region?
1100-1300 CE
What is characteristic of the design and architecture of Vesara-style temples?
No set guidelines for design and architecture
What is the region between the Vindhyas and the Krishna Rivers often linked to?
Vesara style
Which dynasty built temples in the Deccan region, showcasing the Vesara style?
Chalukyas of Kalyani and Hoysala
Why is it challenging to characterize the Vesara style?
Because the proportion of northern and southern components might change
What is unique about the Shikara in Vesara Style of Temple Architecture?
It is combined with Dravida style Mandaps
What is notable about the temple design in Vesara Style?
It lacks ambulatory passageways around Sanctum Sanctorum
What is a notable feature of the pillars, doorframes, and ceilings in Vesara Style temples?
Intricate carvings
Why is the Vesara Style of temple architecture considered unique?
It is a fusion of art, architecture, mathematics, and philosophy
What is special about the sculptures in Indian temples?
They depict a wide range of subjects
What is the significance of temple sculptures in Indian temples?
They convey religious narratives and moral teachings
What is the significance of the depiction of gods and goddesses in Indian temple art?
It allows devotees to identify and worship them with reverence
What is characteristic of iconography in Indian temple art?
It is highly symbolic
What type of sculptures were mainly found on the outer surface of the Vesara style temple?
High life-size in bold relief
Which of the following supernatural beings were avoided in the Vesara style?
Super-natural beasts
What was added to the capital in the Vesara style?
Kumbha
What was the shape of the abacus below the wide abacus in the Vesara style?
Flower-shape
What was the significance of the high enclosures in the Pandya style?
To emphasize the sanctity of the temple
What was the characteristic feature of the Pandya Gopuram?
Rectangular in plan and has keel or barrel roof
What was the inspiration behind the design of the Pandya Gopuram?
Chaitya Hall of Buddhist style
What is the shape of the Pandya Gopuram in plan?
Oblong
Study Notes
Temple Sculptures and Architecture
- Temple sculptures depend on the deity to which the temple is dedicated, e.g., Siva temples feature bull and bhutas, while Visnu temples depict Garuda or eagle.
- The decoration on the prastara goes around the entire structure, containing miniature vimana-like shrines.
- There are variations in styles of vimanas, including kuta vimana, sala vimana, and panjara vimana.
Vesara Style
- Found primarily in central India, combining elements of Nagara and Dravidian architectural traditions.
- Characterized by a hybrid tower design, blending features of both styles to create unique architectural compositions.
- The style translates to "mule" and is represented by temples built by the Chalukyas of Kalyani and Hoysala in the Deccan between 1100 and 1300 CE.
- Features a mix of Nagara architectural style Shikara and Dravida architectural style Mandaps.
- No set guidelines must be followed in the designs of the plan and superstructure.
- Intricate carvings can be found on the pillars, doorframes, and ceilings.
Temple Sculptures, Iconography, and Ornamentation
- Temple sculptures depict a wide range of subjects, including gods, goddesses, celestial beings, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu mythology.
- Iconography in Indian temple art is highly symbolic, with each deity associated with specific attributes, gestures, and motifs.
- The depiction of gods and goddesses follows strict iconographic conventions, allowing devotees to identify and worship them with reverence and devotion.
Pandya Style
- The Pandya style succeeded the Chola period, contributing to the development of Dravidian architecture.
- Temples were surrounded by high enclosures with gateways - 'Gopuram' of imposing size and elegant appearance.
- The 'vimana' over the cella ceased to be constructed, and attention was directed to emphasize the temple entrance 'Gopuram '.
- The Pandya Gopuram is rectangular in plan and has a keel or barrel roof, differing from the Chola Vimana, which is square in plan with a round cupola.
This quiz covers the architectural features and sculptural decorations of Hindu temples, including the significance of vimanas and the types of sculptures found on temple walls.
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