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

mcqeasy

In the context of Odisha temple architecture, what does the term 'Jagamohana' refer to?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AThe crowning wheel of the temple
BThe main sanctum sanctorum
CThe outer boundary wall
DThe assembly hall or mandapa

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is The assembly hall or mandapa.

Explanation

The question pertains to the Kalinga School of Temple Architecture, a distinct sub-style of the Nagara order that developed in the Odisha region. This architectural style employs specific indigenous terminology for the various components of the temple structure.

Detailed Analysis:

Jagamohana (Assembly Hall): In the Odisha style, the mandapa or the assembly hall where devotees gather is known as the Jagamohana. It typically adjoins the main sanctum and is structurally characterized by a pyramidal roof (Pidha Deul).
Deul (Sanctum Sanctorum): The main shrine housing the deity (equivalent to the Garbhagriha) is called the Deul. It usually features a curvilinear tower known as Rekha Deul.
Other Components: In fully developed Kalinga temples (e.g., Lingaraj or Konark), two additional halls were often added in front of the Jagamohana: the Natmandira (Festival/Dance Hall) and the Bhogamandira (Hall of Offerings).
Crowning Elements: The crowning wheel or ribbed disk on top of the temple is called the Amalaka, often surmounted by a Kalasha or Khapuri.

Key Takeaway: In Odisha temple architecture, the Deul refers to the main sanctuary tower, while the Jagamohana refers to the adjoining assembly hall or mandapa.

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?

medium

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?

medium

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

Keep practising Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

Work through every question from this NCERT chapter.

Browse all NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture chapters

The correct option is The assembly hall or mandapa.

Explanation

Detailed Analysis:

Jagamohana (Assembly Hall): In the Odisha style, the mandapa or the assembly hall where devotees gather is known as the Jagamohana. It typically adjoins the main sanctum and is structurally characterized by a pyramidal roof (Pidha Deul).
Deul (Sanctum Sanctorum): The main shrine housing the deity (equivalent to the Garbhagriha) is called the Deul. It usually features a curvilinear tower known as Rekha Deul.
Other Components: In fully developed Kalinga temples (e.g., Lingaraj or Konark), two additional halls were often added in front of the Jagamohana: the Natmandira (Festival/Dance Hall) and the Bhogamandira (Hall of Offerings).
Crowning Elements: The crowning wheel or ribbed disk on top of the temple is called the Amalaka, often surmounted by a Kalasha or Khapuri.

Key Takeaway: In Odisha temple architecture, the Deul refers to the main sanctuary tower, while the Jagamohana refers to the adjoining assembly hall or mandapa.