The awesome temple being built at the Rama Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya will showcase the Nagara style of temple architecture.
What is Nagara Style of Temple Architecture?
The Nagara style of temple architecture is found in Northern India.
- Nagara-style temples often have a raised platform called jagati as their foundation.
- In front of the main shrine (Garbhagriha), you’ll find a pavilion known as mandapa, adorned with the tallest tower called Shikhara.
- Unlike some other temple styles, Nagara temples typically don’t feature elaborate boundary walls or gateways.
- Unlike some temples, Nagara-style doesn’t include water tanks within the temple premises.
- The path for circumambulation (pradakshina patha) is usually covered in Nagara-style temples.
- The inner sanctum (garbhagriha) is always situated directly beneath the tallest tower of the temple.
The Basic form of a Hindu temple contains the following architectural elements:
- Garbhagriha: This is the cozy room where the main deity or deities of the temple live.
- Mandapa: Picture the entrance hall of the temple where lots of people can gather. It’s like the welcoming space before you enter the main sanctum.
- Shikhara: Think of the towering spire on top of the temple. It can look like a majestic mountain and comes in various shapes, from pyramid-like to gracefully curvy.
- Vahana: In the temple, you’ll find the special spot where the deity’s mount or vehicle is placed. It’s usually positioned so you can easily see it from the main sanctum.
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