PJ

Prateek JoshiAIR 1· 2024

Question Q11GS1GS1

The Dravidian temple architecture traces its origin to 6th century Pallava kingdom.

Open scan (p.25)

Main Body

Architecture during Pallava

(A) Mahendravarman rule

Rock-cut temples prominent
Structural temples not available during that time
Simple structure without much ornamentation.

(B2) "Mamalla" rule

Free standing Nandi portals along attached with people
Primitive structural temple got built at Mamallipuram.
Monolithic Rath temple at Mamallipuram as testament

"Rajasimha" rule

Full-scale structural temples came into prominence.
Explicit features of ovaside temples like Mc.mandapas, Wells in temple present
Ex: Shore Temple at Kanchipuram

However, the temple architecture reached finality during Cholas

[Diagram showing temple components]

Rayapaya1

Mature stage of Ovaside architecture
Elaborate carvings on walls
Gapuram became big & magnificent
Ex: Brihadesshwara Temple.

Note: [illegible - possibly architectural diagram with components like Ulama, Nandya, Garbhagriha, Vimana, Ardha temple]

Rajendra I

Ultimate display of chola architecture zenith
Multiple manodapas as asita architectural elements
Vimana decorated with gold.
Temples shifted from being a just an architecture to being a social entity.

Thus, the temple Chola's temple purpose continued in Southern Indian with Nayakaar developing Talent gopuram in form of Meenakshi Temple at Madurai.

185 words8 paragraphs
  • Clear chronological progression
  • Identifies key architectural innovations
  • Good use of specific examples

Topper

Prateek Joshi

AIR 12024

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Salient aspects of Architecture from ancient to modern times

Dynastic Art - Pallava temple architecture

Dravidian temple architecture origins

Writing Stats

185

Total words

8

Paragraphs

Descriptive and structured

Tone