The early structural temples of India, particularly those from the Gupta period, followed a foundational architectural plan that evolved from simple structures to complex towers. At the core of the layout was the Garbhagriha, a small, square sanctum where the idol of the deity was placed. This was usually preceded by a Mandapa, a pillared hall or porch that served as an entrance. Over time, a superstructure known as the Shikhara was built atop the Garbhagriha to distinguish it as a sacred site. These components-the Garbhagriha, the supporting pillars of the porch, and the rising Shikhara-became the standard elements of early Indian temple architecture.
The basic layout of early temples mentioned in the passage typically included:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Hall, Shrine, Veranda
Explanation
According to the history of ancient Indian architecture, the basic layout of early structural temples (such as those from the early Gupta period) typically included three main components: a main hall where devotees could assemble, a small shrine or sanctum (garbhagriha) where the idol or image of the deity was placed, and a veranda or porch (portico) supported by pillars at the entrance. In these early stages, temples were mostly flat-roofed and did not feature the grand towers or shikharas that developed much later in the Nagara and Dravida styles.
Key Points
The layout of early temples was extremely simple and fundamental, reflecting the very beginning of structural Hindu temple architecture.
These early structures were flat-roofed, meaning the high, grand towers or spires (shikharas) that became prominent in later centuries were completely missing.
Temple 17 at Sanchi is one of the finest surviving examples of this early Gupta period architecture, showcasing just a simple sanctum along with a small pillared porch.
Additional Facts
The 'Garbhagriha' or shrine is the innermost sacred space (sanctum) where the idol of the main deity is installed.
The 'Mandapa' or main hall developed as a space for devotees to gather, pray, and organize religious discourses.
Over time, this basic design evolved into grand and complex structural styles, namely the Nagara style in North India and the Dravida style in South India.
Important Questions
Question: Which early temple from the Gupta period is famous for its classic flat-roofed and simple veranda layout?
Answer: Temple 17 at Sanchi.
Question: What is the innermost and most sacred part of a Hindu temple where the main idol is kept called?
Answer: Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum or Shrine).