Discover the Majestic Nagara Style of Indian Temples

Описание: The Nagara style of temple architecture is one of the three main styles in Indian temple architecture, primarily found in northern India. Here are the key characteristics of Nagara-style temples:

1. Shikhara (Curved Tower or Spire)
The most prominent feature of Nagara temples is the shikhara, a tall, curvilinear spire that rises over the sanctum (garbhagriha), where the main deity is housed.
The shikhara often has multiple layers or tiers that taper upward, giving it a pyramidal shape.
2. Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum)
The innermost part of the temple, where the deity's image or statue is placed. It is small and often square in shape.
Only the priests are allowed to enter the garbhagriha, and devotees worship from outside.
3. Mandapa (Pillared Hall)
A pillared hall or pavilion located in front of the sanctum, where devotees gather for worship and rituals.
The mandapa can be open or enclosed, depending on the temple's layout.
4. Amalaka (Disc-like Structure)
At the top of the shikhara is the amalaka, a circular, ribbed stone structure that is symbolic of the celestial world. It also serves as a crown for the temple spire.
5. Antarala (Vestibule)
A small antechamber or passage that connects the garbhagriha to the mandapa.
6. Axial Design
Nagara temples are usually designed along an east-west axis, with the main entrance facing east. This alignment is symbolic, allowing the temple to receive the rays of the rising sun.
7. Lack of Enclosure Walls
Unlike Dravidian temples (South Indian style), Nagara temples often do not have large enclosure walls surrounding them. The focus is more on the vertical dimension rather than expansive horizontal courtyards.
8. Elaborate Sculptures
The walls of Nagara temples are often richly adorned with carvings and sculptures depicting gods, goddesses, mythological stories, and intricate motifs.
Sub-Styles of Nagara Temples:
Rekha-Prasad Shikhara: The most common sub-style, characterized by a smooth, gently curving shikhara.
Phamsana Shikhara: Features a tiered or stepped pyramid-like shikhara, often seen in smaller temples or subsidiary shrines.
Valabhi Shikhara: Rectangular or barrel-vaulted roofs, often used for temples with specific deity forms or in special regions.
Examples of Nagara Style Temples:
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)
Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar (Odisha)
Sun Temple, Konark (Odisha)
This style is known for its elegant proportions, focus on verticality, and intricate ornamentation, which distinguishes it from other regional styles like Dravidian and Vesara architecture.