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

mcqeasy

In the terminology of Odisha temple architecture, the main tower or shikhara is referred to as:

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

APhamsana
BVimana
CDeul
DLatina

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is Deul.

Explanation

The Odisha School of Architecture, also known as the Kalinga style, is a distinct regional variation of the Nagara order of temple architecture. This style employs specific indigenous terminology to describe the various structural components of the temple complex.

Option Analysis

Deul is correct: In the terminology of Odisha architecture, the main tower or shikhara situated directly over the sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is referred to as the Deul. Specifically, the tall, curvilinear tower is known as the Rekha Deul.
Vimana is incorrect: The term Vimana refers to the tower over the main shrine in the Dravida style of temple architecture, prevalent in South India.
Latina is incorrect: Latina is a general typological classification of Nagara shikharas characterized by a simple, curvilinear spire. While the Rekha Deul falls under the Latina category, "Latina" is not the specific regional term used in Odisha for the tower.
Phamsana is incorrect: Phamsana refers to a type of shikhara with a pyramidal roof made of horizontal slabs. In Odisha, this style is typically used for the assembly hall (Jagamohana), which is locally called the Pidha Deul, rather than the main tower.

Key Takeaway: In Kalinga architecture, the main temple tower is called the Deul (Rekha Deul), and the adjoining assembly hall is called the Jagamohana (Pidha Deul).

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

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Correct Option

The correct option is Deul.

Explanation

Option Analysis

Deul is correct: In the terminology of Odisha architecture, the main tower or shikhara situated directly over the sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is referred to as the Deul. Specifically, the tall, curvilinear tower is known as the Rekha Deul.
Vimana is incorrect: The term Vimana refers to the tower over the main shrine in the Dravida style of temple architecture, prevalent in South India.
Latina is incorrect: Latina is a general typological classification of Nagara shikharas characterized by a simple, curvilinear spire. While the Rekha Deul falls under the Latina category, "Latina" is not the specific regional term used in Odisha for the tower.
Phamsana is incorrect: Phamsana refers to a type of shikhara with a pyramidal roof made of horizontal slabs. In Odisha, this style is typically used for the assembly hall (Jagamohana), which is locally called the Pidha Deul, rather than the main tower.

Key Takeaway: In Kalinga architecture, the main temple tower is called the Deul (Rekha Deul), and the adjoining assembly hall is called the Jagamohana (Pidha Deul).