Hindu Temple Architecture Overview:

Lecture 2: Hindu Temple Architecture

Introduction

  • The term 'temple' in English generally refers to various terms in India such as devalaya, devkula mandir, kovil, deol, devasthanam, or prasada depending on the region.

Evolution of Hindu Architecture

Timeline

  • Harappan Period
    • Features included a drainage system, rectangular intersecting roads, and a sanitary system.
  • Mauryan Period
    • Characterized by monolithic pillars, finely carved capitals (e.g., Bull capital and Sarnath capital), and the emergence of stupas with four gateways.
    • Stupas were surface-built with bricks, and Viharas and Chaityas along with rock-cut architecture were prominent.
  • Shunga-Satvahanas Period
    • Early classic architecture with carved railings and gateways around Buddhist shrines.
  • Kushan Period
    • Sculpture developed, with the emperor considered a divine authority.
    • Buddha was given a human form for the first time.
  • Gupta Period
    • Marked the beginning of Hindu temples, such as the Temple at Deogarh and Udaigiri caves in Orissa.
    • Vaishnavite temples in Vidisha were also built.
  • Chalukyas Period
    • Featured a blend of Aryan and Dravidian styles of architecture.
  • Pallavas Period
    • Known for Mandaps, Rathas, and finely carved panels and pillars.
    • The Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram is a structural temple, while the Ratha temple is a rock-cut temple.
    • Temples also found in Kanchipuram.
    • Panels depict Shiva as Natraja and the history of Pallavas.
  • Cholas Period
    • The Tanjore Temple featured a 65 m tall vimana.
    • Pillared halls and sculptures depicted Bharata’s natyashastra, along with fine paintings.
  • Pandyas Period
    • Built high outer walls and gopurams, which could be seen from long distances.
  • Hoysalas Period
    • Belur and Halebeed temples were constructed.
    • Featured a profusion of manifold pillars with rich and intricate carvings.
    • Panels depicted gods and goddesses.
  • Orissa Temples
    • Lingraja temple, 40 m high, built by the Somavamsi dynasty.
    • Sun Temple was also constructed.

Introduction to Hindu Temples

  • The word