Dravida Style of Temple Architecture

The Dravida style of temple architecture, prominent in southern India, features towering pyramidal structures called Gopurams as its hallmark. These Gopurams serve as grand entrances designed with beautiful sculptures and carvings showing various mythological narratives.

Dravida temples typically have a rectangular layout, with multiple concentric enclosures leading to the main sanctum. The inner sanctum, or garbhagriha, houses the main deity and is often designed with elaborate decorations. Pillared halls, known as mandapas, are common features for gatherings and ceremonies. Dravida temples are predominantly built using granite, showcasing the region’s abundant stone resources. Examples include the iconic Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the majestic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai.

Features of Dravida Temple Architecture

Major features of Dravida temple architecture include:

• Gopurams: These monumental entrance towers are one of the most unique features of Dravida temples. Gopurams are often elaborately decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, mythical creatures, and beautiful designs. They serve as gateways marking the transition from the secular world to the sacred space of the temple.
• Vimanas: Dravida temples typically have pyramidal or tiered vimanas (towers) over the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), which house the main deity of worship. These vimanas are often designed with sculptural details and decorative elements, symbolizing the cosmic mountain or the abode of the gods.
• Garbhagriha: The inner sanctum of Dravida temples, known as the garbhagriha, houses the principal deity of the temple. It is usually a small, dark chamber, representing the womb of the universe. The deity is often depicted in various forms, reflecting different aspects of divinity.
• Mandapas: Dravida temples typically feature pillared halls known as mandapas, which are used for gatherings, rituals, and ceremonies. These mandapas are often beautifully carved with mythological motifs and serve as spaces for devotees to congregate and worship.
• Layout: Dravida temples are characterized by their compact and symmetrically arranged layouts. They often have multiple concentric enclosures surrounding the main shrine, creating a sense of progression from the outer world towards the inner sanctum.
• Materials: Dravida temples are predominantly built using locally available stone, such as granite. The use of durable stone allows for complex carving and ensures the longevity of the temple structures.
• Religious Significance: Dravida temple architecture is deeply rooted in Hindu religious beliefs and mythology. The temples are designed to serve as abodes of the divine, facilitating spiritual worship, rituals, and pilgrimage for devotees.

Nagara and Dravidian are the two major styles of Hindu temple architecture in India. They came up from the earlier style known as the Panchayatana style of architecture. The Nagara style is found in northern India, while the Dravidian style is found in southern India. The main difference between the Nagara and Dravidian styles is the shape of the central tower. The Nagara style has a curvilinear or beehive-shaped tower, while the Dravidian style has a pyramid-like central tower. Both styles have their unique features, which are described below in the article.