SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 45

Solution: The correct answer is Nagara (north) & Dravida (south).
Explanation:
☛ The Vesara style is an indigenous hybrid style of temple architecture that developed in the Deccan region.
☛ It represents a unique synthesis of the northern Nagara style and the southern Dravida style.
☛ This architectural school originated under the patronage of the Chalukyas of Badami (Early Chalukyas) around the 6th to 8th centuries CE.
☛ Prominent historical sites showcasing this style include Aihole, Badami, and Pattadakal in modern-day Karnataka.
☛ In the Vesara style, the ground plan generally resembles the southern Dravidian style, while the shape of the superstructure or spire (Shikhara) often shows northern Nagara influences.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Aihole: Commonly referred to as the 'Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture', hosting around 100 structural temples demonstrating early experimentation with architectural forms.
☛ Pattadakal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a harmonious mix of both Nagara and Dravida styles, along with transitional Vesara shrines.
☛ Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal: Built by Queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate Vikramaditya II's victory over the Pallavas of Kanchipuram.
☛ Later Patronage: The Vesara style reached its peak with the ornate and star-shaped (stellate) temples built under the Rashtrakutas and the Hoysalas (such as at Belur and Halebidu).
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which dynasty is primarily credited with initiating the Vesara style of temple architecture? → Chalukyas of Badami
☛ Which historic place in Karnataka is known as the 'Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture'? → Aihole
☛ The monumental rock-cut Kailash temple at Ellora was built under the patronage of which dynasty? → Rashtrakuta Dynasty
☛ Which architectural feature is characteristic of Dravidian temple gateways? → Gopuram
☛ The famous Chennakeshava Temple at Belur was constructed by which dynasty? → Hoysala Dynasty