Consider the following statements regarding the 'Nagara' temple style: 1. It is typically enclosed within elaborate boundary walls and gateways. 2. The entire temple is generally built on a stone platform with steps. 3. The garbhagriha is located directly under the mandapa rather than the main tower. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is 2 only Explanation The Nagara style of temple architecture developed in Northern India (from the 5th century AD onwards). It is structurally distinct from the Dravida style of Southern India, particularly in terms of the boundary, tower shape, and ground plan. Statement-wise Analysis: - Statement 1 is Incorrect: The entire temple in the Nagara style is generally built on a high stone platform known as the Jagati, which is accessible by steps. This is a defining feature that elevates the temple structure above the surrounding ground. - Statement 2 is Correct: Elaborate boundary walls and monumental gateways (Gopurams) are characteristic features of the Dravida style (South Indian). Nagara temples typically do not have elaborate boundary walls or gateways; the temple stands freely on its platform. - Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is always located directly under the main and tallest tower, known as the Shikhara. The Mandapa (assembly hall) is located in front of the Garbhagriha and usually has a lower, distinct roof. Placing the sanctum under the Mandapa would violate the architectural logic of the style. Key Takeaway: The Nagara style is characterized by a raised platform (Jagati) and a curvilinear tower (Shikhara) situated directly over the sanctum, unlike the Dravida style which features boundary walls and Gopurams.

NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture — Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

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Consider the following statements regarding the 'Nagara' temple style:

It is typically enclosed within elaborate boundary walls and gateways.
The entire temple is generally built on a stone platform with steps.
The garbhagriha is located directly under the mandapa rather than the main tower.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 and 3 only
B2 only
C1 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is

2 only

Explanation

The Nagara style of temple architecture developed in Northern India (from the 5th century AD onwards). It is structurally distinct from the Dravida style of Southern India, particularly in terms of the boundary, tower shape, and ground plan.

Statement-wise Analysis:

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The entire temple in the Nagara style is generally built on a high stone platform known as the Jagati, which is accessible by steps. This is a defining feature that elevates the temple structure above the surrounding ground.
Statement 2 is Correct: Elaborate boundary walls and monumental gateways (Gopurams) are characteristic features of the Dravida style (South Indian). Nagara temples typically do not have elaborate boundary walls or gateways; the temple stands freely on its platform.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is always located directly under the main and tallest tower, known as the Shikhara. The Mandapa (assembly hall) is located in front of the Garbhagriha and usually has a lower, distinct roof. Placing the sanctum under the Mandapa would violate the architectural logic of the style.

Key Takeaway: The Nagara style is characterized by a raised platform (Jagati) and a curvilinear tower (Shikhara) situated directly over the sanctum, unlike the Dravida style which features boundary walls and Gopurams.

Your note

More from Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

Which of the following temple groups is renowned for the 'Bangla roof' style that subsequently influenced Mughal architecture?

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With reference to the basic form of the Hindu temple, consider the following statements: 1. The garbhagriha was originally a small cubicle with a single entrance which later grew into a larger chamber. 2. The mandapa is the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple. 3. The mount or vehicle of the temple’s main deity is placed axially behind the sanctum to guard the rear entrance. Which of the statements given above are correct?

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Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below: List I | List II A. Amalaka | 1. Motif resembling a cow-eye or arch B. Kalasha | 2. Composite mythical beast C. Gavaksha | 3. Vase or pot placed on top of the amalaka D. Vyala | 4. Horizontal fluted disc at the top of the shikhara

easy

easy

Consider the following statements regarding the sub-types of Nagara temple architecture: 1. Latina buildings are characterized by a flat roof structure. 2. Phamsana buildings tend to be broader and shorter than Latina ones. 3. Valabhi buildings have a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber, similar to a wagon-vault. Which of the statements given above are correct?

hard

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The correct option is

2 only

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis:

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The entire temple in the Nagara style is generally built on a high stone platform known as the Jagati, which is accessible by steps. This is a defining feature that elevates the temple structure above the surrounding ground.
Statement 2 is Correct: Elaborate boundary walls and monumental gateways (Gopurams) are characteristic features of the Dravida style (South Indian). Nagara temples typically do not have elaborate boundary walls or gateways; the temple stands freely on its platform.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is always located directly under the main and tallest tower, known as the Shikhara. The Mandapa (assembly hall) is located in front of the Garbhagriha and usually has a lower, distinct roof. Placing the sanctum under the Mandapa would violate the architectural logic of the style.