Why do temples have shikhara?

A shikhara over the garbhagriha chamber where the presiding deity is enshrined is the most prominent and visible part of a Hindu temple of North India. In the south, shikhara is a term for the top stage of the vimana only, which is usually a dome capped with a finial; this article is concerned with the northern form.

Why do Hindu temples have towers?

Temples serve as dwelling places for deities, surrounded by markets selling offerings and flowers. Above the sanctuaries are central towers, shaped like the mountain home of the gods and brightly painted.

What is shikhara in temple architecture?

shikhara, (Sanskrit: “mountain peak”) also spelled shikara, also called shikar, in North Indian temple architecture, the superstructure, tower, or spire above the sanctuary and also above the pillared mandapas (porches or halls); it is the most dominant and characteristic feature of the Hindu temple in the north.

Why was shikhara built?

Answer: The most important part of a Hindu temple was the garbha griha. A tower was usually built on top of the garbha griha. This was done to mark it as the sacred place. This tower was called the shikhara.

Why are temples pyramid shaped?

As far as I know the shape of the pyramid enhances the increase in ozone through inside the Temple, Also there is some kind of a copper plate which is placed underneath the Idol, with which the Idol emits the positive power to the Devotes who are around.

What is the main difference between shikara and Vimana?

Shikhara is found in North Indian temples and Vimana is found in South Indian temples. Shikhara has a curving shape while vimana has a pyramidal-like structure.

What is the purpose of a gopuram?

The gopuram refers to the pyramidal-shaped tower at the temple entrance and is an important feature in South Indian temples. Its great height serves a purpose, acting as a beacon for devotees from afar and allowing them to pray or meditate in preparation for their entrance into the temple.

What is the main structure of the temple known as?

The shape of the main temple tower is known as Vimana (shikhara in nagara style). The vimana is like a stepped pyramid that rises up geometrically rather than the curving shikhara of north India.

Is the top most part of a temple?

Kalasha: It is the topmost point of the temple and commonly seen in North Indian temples.

What are the three styles of temple architecture?

Three main styles of temple architecture are the Nagara or the Northern style, the Dravida or the Southern style and the Vesara or Mixed style.

Why did the rulers built temple?

Because kings built temples to demonstrate their devotion to God and their power and wealth, it is not surprising that when they attacked one another’s kingdoms, they often targeted these buildings.