In a typical Nagara style temple, the images of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna are traditionally placed at the:

Correct Option

The correct option is Entrance of the garbhagriha.

Explanation

In Indian temple architecture, specifically the Nagara style (North Indian style), the entrance doorway to the main sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is treated as a ritual threshold. The iconography placed here serves a symbolic purpose of purification for the devotee entering the sacred space.

Detailed Analysis

• Placement of River Goddesses: The images of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna are traditionally carved on the door jambs (lateral posts) of the entrance to the Garbhagriha.
• Iconography:
  • Ganga is depicted riding her vehicle, the Makara (crocodile).
  • Yamuna is depicted riding her vehicle, the Kurma (tortoise).
• Symbolism: Their presence at the doorway symbolizes that the devotee is ritually purified by the sacred waters of these rivers before entering the presence of the deity within the sanctum.
• Historical Context: This feature evolved significantly during the Gupta Period. Initially found at the upper corners of the door frame in early Gupta temples, the figures eventually moved to the base of the door jambs in the fully developed Nagara style.

Why other options are incorrect:

• Apex of the shikhara: The apex usually holds the Amalaka and Kalasha, not river goddess images.
• Centre of the mandapa: The mandapa is a pillared hall for assembly; while it may contain carvings, the specific ritual placement of Ganga and Yamuna is not at its center.
• Outer boundary wall: The boundary wall (prakara) may have guardian deities (Dikpalas), but the river goddesses are specifically associated with the sanctum's threshold.

Key Takeaway: In Nagara style temples, the door jambs of the Garbhagriha feature the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna, symbolizing ritual purification of the devotee entering the sanctum.