Monika SrivastavaAIR 16 · CSE 2025 · 246 wordsTheir whole copy
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The temple architecture in India emerged during Gupta empire & came of age as structural temples during Pallavas and achieved great heights during Imperial Cholas in 10th century.
Came of Age during Pallavas
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(1) Rise of Rock cut temples during first phase of Pallavas (Mahendravarman)
(2) Structural Temples like Shore temples during Rajasimha group of Pallavas
Rise of Temples during Pallavas -
- Shore Temple
- Arjuna penace } Mahabalipuram
zenith during Cholas
- lofty Tall Gopurams started during cholas (a) Gangai konda cholapuram Temple
- Engineering Marvel using innovative techniques (a) 80 ton of Capstone at Brihadeshwara temple top
- Temples as source of economic activity (a) Employment around temples
- Temple as source of learning as educational institutions as part of temple
- usage of Rock, granite, Basalt (a) Brihadeshwara temple made of granite
- Presence of Water Tanks
(7) Dwarpalas at the entrance of temples added to temple
(8) Intricate carvings and sculptures show vivid imagination of craftsmen (a) Mahabharat, Ramayan on temple pillars
(9) Temples as sign of victory (a) Rajendra I built temple after victory over eastern India
(10) Cultural exchange using temple architecture (a) Cambodian temples due to trade relations with Cholas
Evolution under Vijayanagar Further evolution of dravida style was done in 13-14th century after Cholas → (1) Kalyan mandapas (Meenakshi temple) → (2) multipillared halls → (3) Secular fabric (Lotus temple)
Close · a summary
UNESCO Heritage status of 'Temples of Imperial Cholas' add to the cultural richness of Pluralistic Indian society
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