UPSC Prelims 2026 · Question 14 of 96
UPSC Prelims 2026 question on Nagara Shikhara Temples
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2026
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectArt and Culture
- TopicTemple Architecture
- DifficultyHard
- TypeStatement
Which of the following temples has/have a Nagara-style shikhara?
1. Malegitti Shivalaya, Badami
2. Huchimalligudi Temple, Aihole
3. Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh
4. Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal
Select the answer using the code given below:
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Answer: B. 2 and 3
Analysis
Temples 2 and 3 have a Nagara-style shikhara, so the answer is Option (b).
Statement by statement
Option 1 is not correct: The Malegitti Shivalaya at Badami belongs to the southern architectural tradition. The temple consists of a sanctum, a pillared hall and an entrance porch, and is surmounted by a Dravidian-style superstructure, reflecting the architectural preferences of the Early Chalukyas.
Option 2 is correct: The Huchimalligudi Temple illustrates the transitional and experimental character of Early Chalukyan architecture. Its significance lies in the appearance of the Rekha-prasada shikhara, a curvilinear tower associated with the Nagara tradition, indicating the growing influence of northern temple forms in the Deccan.
Option 3 is correct: Dating to the Gupta period, the Dashavatara Temple marks an important stage in the development of Indian temple architecture. The temple is associated with one of the earliest forms of the Latina (Rekha-prasada) shikhara, which later became the defining feature of the Nagara style across northern India.
Option 4 is not correct: The Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal is a classic example of mature Dravidian architecture. While Pattadakal as a whole is renowned for the coexistence of both Nagara and Dravidian styles, the design and elevation of the Virupaksha Temple are overwhelmingly influenced by the southern vimana tradition rather than the Nagara style.