The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are
Reviewed by Dalvoy
UPSC Civil Services preparation
- Athe three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent
- Bthe three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified
- Cthe three main styles of Indian temple architectureCorrect
- Dthe three main musical gharanas prevalent in India
Explanation
The correct answer is C because Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara represent the three primary styles of temple architecture in ancient and medieval India.
Nagara is the style associated with Northern India, characterized by a beehive shaped tower called a Shikhara.
Dravida is the style found in Southern India, distinguished by pyramid shaped towers called Vimanas and large gateway towers known as Gopurams.
Vesara is a hybrid or mixed style that combines features of both Nagara and Dravida traditions. This style was popularized primarily in the Deccan region under dynasties like the Chalukyas and Hoysalas.

Related questions
More UPSC Prelims practice from the same subject and topic.
- Prelims 1995GS1art-and-culture
Which one of the following monuments has a dome which is said to be one of the largest in the world?
- Prelims 1995GS1art-and-culture
The Mughal School of Painting formed the spinal column of the various schools of Indian miniature art. Which one of the following painting styles was not affected by Mughal painting?
- Prelims 1995GS1art-and-culture
According to the Mimamsa system of philosophy, liberation is possible by means of
- Prelims 1995GS1art-and-culture
The lead character in the film The Bandit Queen has been played by
- Prelims 1995GS1art-and-culture
Bronze icons of Nataraja cast during the Chola period invariably show the deity with
- Prelims 1995GS1art-and-culture
The concept of Anuvrata was advocated by