Consider the following pairs with reference to temples and their schools of architecture:

Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?

Solution

• Pair 1 is correct: The Doddabasappa temple was built in 1124-26 AD by the Kalyani Chalukya Dynasty. The temple architecture is a star shaped with a stellate plan made with soapstone. The architecture is Vesara school of architecture, also called the Karnataka school of architecture. It combined the features of both Nagara and Dravidian schools. • Pair 2 is correct: Vittalaswami temple was built during the reign of King Devaraya II (1422 – 1446 A.D.). The temple has been built in Vijayanagara school of architecture. The Vittala Temple is also known as Shri Vijaya Vitthala Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. • Pair 3 is correct: Chennakesava temple at Belur is built in Hoysala school. The temple is characterized by a typical star-shaped ground plan. The temple is carved by soft soap stone and massive emphasis has been laid on the decoration of the temple through sculptures. • Pair 4 is incorrect: Modhera Sun temple, Gujarat is built in Solanki school of architecture. There is a massive rectangular stepped tank called the surya kund in front of it, which is a unique feature of this school. The influence of the wood carving tradition of Gujarat is evident in the lavish carving and sculpture work.