Dravidian vs. Nagara

Attribute	Dravidian	Nagara
Location	South India	North India
Temple Architecture	Pyramidal towers, intricate carvings	Tall spires, intricate sculptures
Material Used	Granite	Sandstone
Layout	Enclosed courtyards, multiple shrines	Open courtyards, single shrine

Introduction

Dravidian and Nagara are two distinct architectural styles that have been prevalent in India for centuries. Both styles have their own unique characteristics and features that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will explore the attributes of Dravidian and Nagara architecture and compare them to understand their differences and similarities.

Dravidian Architecture

Dravidian architecture is primarily found in the southern part of India, particularly in the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. This style is characterized by its pyramid-shaped towers known as gopurams, which are often adorned with intricate carvings of deities, mythical creatures, and other religious motifs. The temples built in the Dravidian style are usually enclosed within a rectangular compound wall and have a series of concentric corridors leading to the inner sanctum.

• Pyramid-shaped towers
• Intricate carvings
• Rectangular compound wall
• Concentric corridors

Nagara Architecture

Nagara architecture, on the other hand, is predominantly found in the northern part of India, particularly in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. This style is characterized by its tall and curvilinear towers known as shikharas, which are often topped with amalakas and kalashas. The temples built in the Nagara style typically have a square-shaped sanctum surrounded by a pillared hall and an entrance porch.

• Tall and curvilinear towers
• Amalakas and kalashas
• Square-shaped sanctum
• Pillared hall

Comparison of Attributes

While both Dravidian and Nagara architecture styles are rooted in Hindu temple construction, they exhibit distinct differences in their design elements and layout. Dravidian temples are known for their elaborate and ornate gopurams, which serve as the main entrance to the temple complex. These gopurams are often multi-storeyed and feature intricate sculptures and carvings that depict various mythological stories and religious themes.

On the other hand, Nagara temples are characterized by their towering shikharas, which are typically taller and more slender compared to the gopurams of Dravidian temples. The shikharas of Nagara temples are often adorned with decorative elements such as amalakas (a circular stone disk) and kalashas (a decorative water pot). These elements symbolize the cosmic axis and are believed to represent the connection between the earthly and divine realms.

Another key difference between Dravidian and Nagara architecture lies in the layout of the temple complexes. Dravidian temples are typically enclosed within a rectangular compound wall that separates the sacred space from the outside world. The temple complex is entered through a series of gopurams that lead to the main sanctum, which houses the principal deity of the temple.

In contrast, Nagara temples do not always have a compound wall surrounding the entire complex. Instead, the temple is often built on a raised platform with entrances on all four sides. The main sanctum is located at the center of the temple, surrounded by a pillared hall and an entrance porch that leads to the inner sanctum.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dravidian and Nagara architecture are two distinct styles of temple construction that have flourished in different regions of India. While Dravidian architecture is known for its pyramid-shaped gopurams and elaborate carvings, Nagara architecture is characterized by its tall shikharas and decorative elements. Despite their differences, both styles share a common purpose of creating sacred spaces that facilitate worship and spiritual contemplation.