Ancient India is famous for its grand temples and rock-cut architecture. Different dynasties built temples in different styles. Knowing the famous temples, their builders and locations is a regular part of static GK in competitive exams.
Temple Architecture Styles
Three main temple styles developed in India:
- Nagara style in North India, with a curved tower called shikhara.
- Dravidian style in South India, with a tall gateway tower called gopuram and a vimana over the sanctum.
- Vesara style, a mix of both, seen in the Deccan.
Famous Temples and Builders
- The Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur was built by the Chola king Rajaraja I.
- The Sun Temple at Konark in Odisha was built by King Narasimhadeva I.
- The Khajuraho temples were built by the Chandela dynasty.
- The Kailasa Temple at Ellora was carved by the Rashtrakutas.
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Rock-Cut and Cave Architecture
The Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra are famous for their paintings and sculptures. The Ajanta caves are known for Buddhist paintings, while Ellora has Hindu, Buddhist and Jain caves. The Elephanta Caves near Mumbai are dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Importance for Exams
Many of these temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Linking the temple with its builder dynasty and location is the key to scoring marks.
Quick Revision Points
- North Indian temple style: Nagara (shikhara).
- South Indian temple style: Dravidian (gopuram).
- Brihadeeswarar Temple built by Rajaraja Chola I.
- Konark Sun Temple is in Odisha.
- Khajuraho built by the Chandelas.
- Kailasa Temple at Ellora built by the Rashtrakutas.
- Ajanta caves are famous for Buddhist paintings.