Dravidian Style Temple vs. Nagar Style Temple

Attribute	Dravidian Style Temple	Nagar Style Temple
Location	Primarily in South India	Primarily in North India
Architecture	Pyramidal towers (Gopurams)	Curvilinear spires (Shikharas)
Material	Granite	Sandstone
Decoration	Elaborate carvings and sculptures	Less intricate carvings
Layout	Enclosed inner sanctum with multiple halls and corridors	Open courtyard with a single sanctum

Architecture

Dravidian style temples are characterized by their pyramid-shaped towers called gopurams, which are adorned with intricate carvings of deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu mythology. These temples typically have a square or rectangular layout with a central shrine dedicated to the main deity. The walls of Dravidian temples are often decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and celestial beings.

Nagar style temples, on the other hand, are known for their tall, curvilinear shikharas or spires that rise above the sanctum sanctorum. These temples have a more vertical and tiered structure compared to the horizontal layout of Dravidian temples. The shikharas of Nagar style temples are often topped with amalakas and kalashas, symbolizing prosperity and abundance.

Materials Used

Dravidian style temples are typically constructed using granite, a hard and durable rock that allows for intricate carvings and detailed sculptures. The use of granite also ensures that the temples can withstand the test of time and remain intact for centuries. The walls of Dravidian temples are often embellished with colorful frescoes and paintings.

Nagar style temples, on the other hand, are built using sandstone, a softer and more easily carved material compared to granite. Sandstone allows for more intricate and delicate carvings, giving Nagar style temples a more ornate and decorative appearance. The use of sandstone also gives these temples a warm and inviting glow when illuminated by the sun.

Layout

Dravidian style temples typically have a more enclosed and compact layout, with multiple concentric walls surrounding the central shrine. The entrance to the temple is usually through a gopuram, which leads to a series of pillared halls and courtyards before reaching the main sanctum. The innermost sanctum is where the main deity is enshrined, and devotees offer their prayers and offerings.

Nagar style temples, on the other hand, have a more open and spacious layout, with a single large hall leading directly to the sanctum sanctorum. The shikharas of Nagar style temples rise high above the central shrine, creating a sense of verticality and grandeur. The open layout of Nagar style temples allows for better circulation of air and light, creating a more serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Decorative Elements

Dravidian style temples are known for their elaborate carvings and sculptures, which depict various deities, celestial beings, and scenes from Hindu mythology. The gopurams of Dravidian temples are often adorned with colorful statues of gods and goddesses, as well as intricate geometric patterns and floral motifs. The walls of Dravidian temples are also decorated with painted frescoes and murals.

Nagar style temples, on the other hand, are characterized by their intricate stone carvings, which often depict mythical creatures, celestial beings, and intricate floral patterns. The shikharas of Nagar style temples are adorned with sculptures of gods and goddesses, as well as motifs symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The use of delicate carvings and intricate details gives Nagar style temples a sense of elegance and refinement.

Symbolism

Dravidian style temples are designed to represent the cosmic mountain Meru, which is believed to be the center of the universe in Hindu mythology. The gopurams of Dravidian temples symbolize the gateway to the divine realm, while the concentric walls represent the layers of the universe. The central shrine of Dravidian temples is where the main deity resides, symbolizing the heart of the universe.

Nagar style temples, on the other hand, are designed to represent the cosmic tree of life, known as the kalpavriksha. The tall shikharas of Nagar style temples symbolize the branches of the kalpavriksha reaching towards the heavens, while the sanctum sanctorum represents the roots of the tree grounding it in the earth. Nagar style temples are believed to be a sacred space where devotees can connect with the divine and seek blessings for prosperity and abundance.