Temple Architecture: Symbolism, Evolution, and Styles

Introduction

Temple architecture encompasses a diverse range of religious structures dedicated to worship across various cultures and civilizations, showcasing unique design elements, symbolism, and spiritual significance.

Early Temples

• Brahmanical temples and sacred images became more popular along with the continuous construction of stupas. Each temple featured a principal deity image. 
• The temple shrines came in three types:
  • Sandhara (without Pradikshinapatha) 
  • Nirandhara (with Pradikshinapatha) 
  • Sarvatobhadra (accessible from all sides)  

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Structure of the Hindu Temple

• Sanctum (Garbhagriha): The sanctum, initially a small cubicle with a single entrance, evolved into a larger chamber over time. 
  • It is designed to house the main icon.
• Entrance (Mandapa): The entrance to the temple, whether a portico or collonaded hall, serves as a space for accommodating a large number of worshippers.
• Architectural Elements: In freestanding temples, a mountain-like spire is featured, taking the form of a curving Shikhar in North India and a pyramidal tower known as a vimana in South India.
• Vahan and Dhvaj: Positioned axially before the sanctum, the vahan represents the mount or vehicle of the main deity, accompanied by a standard pillar, or Dhvaj.

Evolution of Temple Architecture

• Progression: During the Gupta period, there was a gradual progression of temples from flat-roofed monolithic temples in the initial stages to the sculptured shikhara in the later years. 
  • Progression can be distinguished into 5 stages:
  • First Stage: The temples were square in shape with a flat roof. 
    • The entire structure was built on a low platform.
  • Second Stage: The platforms were higher or upraised. Two-storied temples have been found. 
    • An important addition was a covered ambulatory passageway around Garbhagriha called a Pradakshinapath.
    •  Example: Parvati temple at Nachnakuthara (Madhya Pradesh)
  • Third Stage: Emergence of Shikharas in place of a flat roof. Panchayatan style of temples was introduced.
  • Fourth Stage: Similar to the third stage, except that the main shrine became more rectangular. 
    • Example: Ter temple in Maharashtra.
  • Fifth Stage: Circular temples with shallow rectangular projections were introduced. 
    • Example: Maniyar math at Rajgir.

Styles of Temple Architecture

• Two distinct orders of temples prevail
  • Nagara in the north 
  • Dravida in the south. 
• Vesara style: They differ in architectural features and spire shapes. 
• Some scholars recognise the Vesara style as an independent form resulting from the selective integration of Nagara and Dravida elements.

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Conclusion

• Temple architecture serves as a testament to human devotion, cultural identity, and architectural ingenuity, fostering spiritual connections and preserving traditions through sacred spaces that inspire awe and reverence.