The Vesara Style represents a mixed in temple architecture, combining elements from both the Nagara and Dravidian styles. While the Nagara Style dominates in North and Central India, and the Dravidian Style prevails in South India, the Vesara style, being a hybrid, is primarily observed in the Deccan and Central India regions. Precisely these temples mostly found in Karnataka.
The Vesara Style of architecture emerged during the rule of the Chalukyan dynasty and reached its pinnacle during the period of the Rashtrakutas. While the Chalukyan rulers initiated this temple style, it flourished significantly under the Rashtrakuta reign. The Rashtrakutas, who were initially vassals of the Chalukyas, ascended to power after the decline of the Chalukya Empire.
Features of Vesara Style of Temple Architecture
The distinctive feature of the Vesara Style involves a blend of the Northern Indian (Nagara Style) Shikhara and the Southern Indian (Dravidian Style) Mandap. In this architectural style, the Shikhara (temple top) and Mandap (main shrine) are interconnected by the Antarala, eliminating the presence of ambulatory passageways around the Sanctum Sanctorum.
These temples exhibit intricate carvings on their pillars, door frames, and ceilings.
Examples of Vesara Style Temples:
- Dodda Bassapa Temple at Dambal.
- Ladkhan Temple at Aihole.
- Temples at the Chalukyan Capital Badami, among others,
- Kallesvara temple, Kukkanur;
- Ramalingesvara temple, Gudur;
- Mahadeva temple, Ittagi;
- Brahmadeva temple, Savadi – notable for being fully stellate;
- Mallikarjuna temple, Sudi.
Hoysala Style of Temple Architecture
During the 11th to 14th centuries, the Chalukyan Rulers and Hoysalas introduced an extraordinary style of temple architecture. These temples differ from the conventional rectangular base and adopted a stellate plan, raised on tall, solid platforms mirroring the shape of the buildings.
The Hoysala-style temples boasted multiple shrines and were famous for their intricate carvings. Crafted from soft soapstone, these temples facilitated detailed carvings, both on the exterior and interior. The elaborate ornamentation of the deities became a hallmark of the Hoysala Style.
One remarkable example is the Dwarasamudra Temple, situated on a raised platform known as Jagati, designed in a star-shaped pattern. The temple walls also featured intricate zig-zag designs. Among the most renowned temples of this style are the Dwarasamudra and the Belur Temple.
This concise overview covers the Vesara and Hoysala styles of temple architecture. It also concludes the exploration of Ancient India’s temple architecture.
