Explanation
Temple architecture in India follows three main styles:
Nagara (Northern), Dravida (Southern), and Vesara (Mixed). Nagara Style (North Indian Temple Architecture) is found in Northern, Central, and Western India. Its key features are:
Shikhara (Tower) which is curvilinear in shape, rising progressively higher. Multiple Shikharas each smaller than the main one. Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) which houses the deity. Mandapa (Pillared Hall) usually present in front of the sanctum. Amalaka (Ribbed Disc), a large stone disc placed on top of the shikhara. Notable examples are: Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh), Sun Temple (Konark, Odisha), Lingaraj Temple (Bhubaneswar, Odisha), etc. Dravida Style (South Indian Temple Architecture) is seen across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana. Its key features:
Vimana (Tower) are pyramid-like structure over the sanctum. Gopurams (Gateway Towers) are large, ornate entrance towers. Sculptures & Mandapas are extensive carvings and pillared halls. Temple Tanks are found in major temples for ritualistic purposes. Notable examples are: Brihadeshwara Temple (Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu), Meenakshi Temple (Madurai, Tamil Nadu), Virupaksha Temple (Hampi, Karnataka), etc. Vesara Style (Hybrid or Mixed Style) is found in Deccan region (Maharashtra, Karnataka). It is a fusion of Nagara and Dravida styles like Shikhara of Nagara influence and temple layout of Dravida. Notable examples include: Hoysaleswara Temple (Halebidu, Karnataka), Virupaksha Temple (Pattadakal, Karnataka) and Chennakesava Temple (Belur, Karnataka), etc.