Which is representative of Dravida style of temple architecture?
- AViman
- BShikhara
- CMandapa
- DGopuram
Solution & Step-by-step Explanation
While many options are features of Hindu temples, the prominent pyramidal tower built over the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) in South Indian temple architecture is called the Viman (or Vimana), which uniquely characterizes the Dravida style. In contrast, the Shikhara is a defining feature of the Northern Nagara style, and Gopurams are the monumental gateway towers typical of later Dravidian temples. However, among foundational structural forms, the primary spire tracking the structural verticality of the main shrine in South Indian taxonomy is termed the Vimana.