With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan’ refers to:

Question

YESPYQ · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: A style of temple construction. Indian temple architecture is diverse, with distinct regional styles such as the Nagara (northern), Dravida (southern), and Vesara (a blend of both). The Panchayatan style is a sub-school of Nagara architecture, specifically prevalent in North India. Option (c) is correct:  Panchayatan is a temple architecture style where the main shrine (garbhagriha) is surrounded by four subsidiary shrines, forming a quincunx (four smaller shrines at the corners and one main shrine in the center).  The term comes from the Sanskrit words Pancha (five) and ayatana (containing).  The Dashavatara Vishnu Temple in Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh, built in the early 6th century AD, follows this style, with the main shrine on a rectangular plinth and four subsidiary shrines at the corners, totaling five shrines. Other temples that follow the Panchayatan style are Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Khajuraho, MP), built during the Chandela period and the Lakshmana Temple (Khajuraho, MP). 15

With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan’ refers to:

Practice more History PYQs

More UPSC History PYQs