Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c25.18

c25.18

In the gradual progress of the style the temple of Darasuram is an example of some significance Compared with the gopurams which are typical of the Pandya period there is a definite change not only in architectural treatment but in the broader aspect of ideals. The temple denotes that a movement was being made away from the relatively robust and disciplined productions of the Pallavas and Cholas, towards a richer and more elegant effect. It implies an effort to animate the style with a new tempo, not with the idea of giving it greater powers, but with the object of arresting attention by increasing its emotional appeal. This building therefore is of no little consequence as it illustrates the middle period of architectural development in the south, marking the stage of transition between the affluent maturity of the Cholas, and the exquisite though extravagant productions of Vijayanagar.