Question

Which of the following regions predominantly features Vesara-style temples?

• A. Northern India and the Gangetic plains
• B. The coastal regions of southern India
• C. The Deccan and Central India regions
• D. The Himalayan foothills

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The Deccan and Central India regions

The Vesara style of temple architecture emerged during the rule of the Chalukyan dynasty. It is a fusion of Nagara and Dravidian architectural elements. Predominantly found in the Deccan and Central India regions. Although the Chalukyas initiated the Vesara style, it flourished under the Rashtrakutas. The temples feature a shikhara (tower) in the Nagara style, while the mandapa (hall) follows the Dravidian style. In Vesara temples, the shikhara and mandapa are connected by an antarala (vestibule), eliminating the need for an ambulatory passage around the sanctum sanctorum. Ladkhan Temple at Aihole, temples at Badami.