Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c36.3

c36.3

THE mediaeval temples which have been dealt with so far have been resolved into two main styles of architecture, the southern or Dravidian, and the northern or Indo-Aryan Early in the second millennium, however, in a large area of the Deccan, a type of temple architecture was developed sufficiently distinctive in character to be regarded as a separate style. This third, or as it is sometimes termed, intermediate style, has been designated by the dynastic name of Chalukyan, which, although not entirely a satisfactory nomenclature, is open to less objection than others. It was a mode of building evolved and practised very largely under the Chalukyan kings or through their influence, as theirs was the paramount power in these parts for the long period from the sixth to the twelfth centuries. The Chalukyans were then overthrown by the Hoysalas, an enterprising and virile race, and it was under the rule of this later dynasty, and mainly within their dominions that the maturity of the style took place For two hundred and fifty years therefore, from the eleventh to the thirteenth century, a very large number of temples were erected, which in view of the relatively limited period and the restricted size of this region imply a condition of almost unprecedented architectural activity ; so much so that the art of building in this mode developed into a definitely significant movement.