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The early medieval period in Indian history, spanning roughly from 750 to 1200 CE, witnessed remarkable developments in the field of temple architecture. This era was marked by the regionalization of political power following the decline of large empires such as the Guptas and the Harshavardhana dynasty. With the rise of powerful regional kingdoms like the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Pallavas, Cholas, Pratiharas, Chandellas, and the Eastern Gangas, temple construction became a significant expression of political legitimacy, religious devotion, and artistic creativity. The temples of this period are distinguished by their grandeur, elaborate ornamentation, and the emergence of distinct regional architectural styles. One of the most prominent features of early medieval temple architecture is the crystallization of two major architectural styles—the Nagara style in northern India and the Dravida style in the south. Alongside these, a hybrid style known as Vesara emerged, especially in the Deccan region. Each style had distinct characteristics in terms of layout, superstructure, and sculptural embellishment. The Nagara style was prevalent in the northern and central parts of India. Its most characteristic feature is the curvilinear shikhara (tower) that rises vertically above the sanctum (garbhagriha). The base plan of Nagara temples is usually square, and the shikhara tapers smoothly towards the top, often crowned by an amalaka (ribbed circular stone) and a kalasha (finial). The temple complex often includes multiple structures such as the garbhagriha, antarala (vestibule), mandapa (pillared hall), and sometimes a maha-mandapa (larger hall). Some temples also have additional shrines, forming a panchayatana or five-shrine complex. The temples are built on raised plinths (jagati), and richly carved with sculptures of deities, mythological narratives, flora, fauna, and decorative motifs. Notable examples of Nagara architecture include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho, Sun Temple at ___ _____ __________ ________ _____ ______ ______.
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