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?

The correct option is 2 and 3 only Explanation Nagara temple architecture, prevalent in Northern India, is primarily classified based on the style of the Shikhara (tower) or the shape of the superstructure. The three main sub-types are Latina, Phamsana, and Valabhi. - Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Latina (or Rekha-Prasada) is the most common type of Nagara building. It is characterized by a curvilinear tower (shikhara) where the walls curve inwards to a central point at the top. It does not have a flat roof. Flat-roofed temples were early prototypes (e.g., in the early Gupta period) but are distinct from the Latina style. - Statement 2 is Correct: Phamsana buildings are rectilinear in plan and tend to be broader and shorter than Latina buildings. Their roofs are composed of several slabs that gently rise to a single point in a straight slope (pyramidal shape), unlike the curved profile of the Latina. They are often used for mandapas (assembly halls). - Statement 3 is Correct: Valabhi buildings are rectangular in plan with a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber. The roof is rounded, resembling a bamboo or wooden wagon-vault (barrel-vault), similar to the ancient Chaitya halls. Key Takeaway: The Nagara style is categorized by shikhara shape: Latina (curved/linear), Phamsana (stepped/pyramidal), and Valabhi (wagon-vaulted/rectangular).

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

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Consider the following statements regarding the sub-types of Nagara temple architecture:

Latina buildings are characterized by a flat roof structure.
Phamsana buildings tend to be broader and shorter than Latina ones.
Valabhi buildings have a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber, similar to a wagon-vault.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1, 2 and 3
B1 and 2 only
C2 and 3 only
D2 only

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is 2 and 3 only

Explanation

Nagara temple architecture, prevalent in Northern India, is primarily classified based on the style of the Shikhara (tower) or the shape of the superstructure. The three main sub-types are Latina, Phamsana, and Valabhi.

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Latina (or Rekha-Prasada) is the most common type of Nagara building. It is characterized by a curvilinear tower (shikhara) where the walls curve inwards to a central point at the top. It does not have a flat roof. Flat-roofed temples were early prototypes (e.g., in the early Gupta period) but are distinct from the Latina style.
Statement 2 is Correct: Phamsana buildings are rectilinear in plan and tend to be broader and shorter than Latina buildings. Their roofs are composed of several slabs that gently rise to a single point in a straight slope (pyramidal shape), unlike the curved profile of the Latina. They are often used for mandapas (assembly halls).
Statement 3 is Correct: Valabhi buildings are rectangular in plan with a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber. The roof is rounded, resembling a bamboo or wooden wagon-vault (barrel-vault), similar to the ancient Chaitya halls.

Key Takeaway: The Nagara style is categorized by shikhara shape: Latina (curved/linear), Phamsana (stepped/pyramidal), and Valabhi (wagon-vaulted/rectangular).

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

With reference to the Dashavatara temple at Deogarh, consider the following statements: 1. It is a classic example of a late Gupta Period temple built in the panchayatana style. 2. It is an east-facing temple. 3. The image of Sheshashayana is carved on the northern wall. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The correct option is 2 and 3 only

Explanation

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Latina (or Rekha-Prasada) is the most common type of Nagara building. It is characterized by a curvilinear tower (shikhara) where the walls curve inwards to a central point at the top. It does not have a flat roof. Flat-roofed temples were early prototypes (e.g., in the early Gupta period) but are distinct from the Latina style.
Statement 2 is Correct: Phamsana buildings are rectilinear in plan and tend to be broader and shorter than Latina buildings. Their roofs are composed of several slabs that gently rise to a single point in a straight slope (pyramidal shape), unlike the curved profile of the Latina. They are often used for mandapas (assembly halls).
Statement 3 is Correct: Valabhi buildings are rectangular in plan with a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber. The roof is rounded, resembling a bamboo or wooden wagon-vault (barrel-vault), similar to the ancient Chaitya halls.

Key Takeaway: The Nagara style is categorized by shikhara shape: Latina (curved/linear), Phamsana (stepped/pyramidal), and Valabhi (wagon-vaulted/rectangular).