What architectural changes did Indian temples undergo over history?
Kiran SrivastavaBegginer
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.
What architectural changes did Indian temples undergo over history?
Over the course of history, Indian temple architecture underwent significant evolution, reflecting the subcontinent’s varied political, cultural, and religious influences. The early historical period saw the display of elaborate carvings and stone monoliths in the rock-cut cave shrines of the Mauryan as well as post-Mauryan periods, such as the Ajanta and Barabar caves. The development of the Nagara style in the north, with its beehive-shaped shikhara, and the Dravidian architectural tradition in the south, with a pyramidal vimana along with elaborate gopurams, as observed in temples like the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram and the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh, signaled the beginning of structural temple architecture during the Gupta period. Large temples like the Brihadeeswarar Temple, which feature magnificent sculptures and a monumental scale, are examples of how the Chola dynasty further refined the Dravidian architectural style. The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu is an example of how the Vesara style, which combined Nagara and Dravidian components, spread throughout the Deccan during the mediaeval era. The Krishna Temple at Hampi is an example of the syncretic styles that resulted from the impact of Islamic architecture while on the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal periods. These styles integrated domes and arches into temple designs. Regional styles flourished in the late mediaeval and early modern eras, as seen in the elaborate marble work found in Rajasthan’s Jain temples and Tamil Nadu’s towering gopurams. This resulted in an elaborate architectural tapestries which illustrates India’s pluralistic heritage.
Temple architecture, the epitome of human devotion and creativity, unravels not only the physical evolution but also how the beliefs of society changes over time as well.
In the north of India, it emerged during gupta period, comprising of 5 stages;
In the south, it developed during the rule of The Pallavas and Mahendravarman , comprising of 4 stages :
Styles of temple architecture:
It is subdivided into 3 schools –
a) odisha school ( eg – sun temple, konark) ,
b) khajuraho school ( eg – lakshman temple, khajuraho) and
c) solanki school ( eg – modhera sun temple , gujarat).
We can decipher a sense of growth and influence of different cultures as the centuries passes. Surely, the new temples held onto their original features but also envisaged the newer forms as well.
Indian temple architecture has undergone significant changes during various historical periods, reflecting developments in religious beliefs, cultural influences and artistic expressions. Below is a brief overview of key developments:
1. Ancient period (300 BC – 500 AD):
– Early temples had simple structures, often rock-cut or cave-like (e.g. Karla Caves, Ajanta Caves).
2. Gupta period (320 – 550 CE):
– Marks the beginning of grand temple architecture, with intricate carvings.
– Examples include Deogarh Temple and Dashavatara Temple.
>3. Medieval period (600 – 1200 CE):
– Saw the rise of regional styles, such as:
– Nagara style (North India), characterized by spires majestic towers (e.g. Khajuraho temples).
– Dravida style (South India), marked by pyramidal towers (e.g. Brihadeeswarar temple).
– Decorative details and sculpture became more complex.
4 . Hoysala period (1100 – 1300 CE):
– Characterized by intricate carvings, engravings and ornate decoration (e.g. temples at Belur and Halebidu).
– Introducing the concept of “temples in protected areas”.
5 . Vijayanagara Period (1300 – 1600 CE):
– Witnessed the construction of large, intricate temples with intricate carvings.
– Examples include the Hampi temple complex and the Vitthala.
6 . Mughal and Colonial Period (1500 – 1900 CE):
– Influenced by Islamic and European architectural styles, leading to the development of:
– Indo-Islamic Architecture religion (e.g. Taj Mahal).
– Colonial – temples of this period, often mixing Indian and European elements.
7. Modern period (1900 CE – present):
– Witnessed a revival of traditional temple architecture, with an emphasis on regional styles and materials.
– Contemporary temples often incorporate modern elements, such as sustainable design and innovative materials.
This brief overview highlights significant changes and developments in Indian temple architecture in different historical periods, reflecting the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the country.