What are the key features of the Nagara architectural style? Analyze with various sub-styles. (250 words)

I. Key Features:
 

• Straight Vertical Height of the Shikhara: The upward elevation is achieved without tiered divisions.
   

• Garbhagriha (Sanctum): The main sacred place of the temple, with the shikhara (spire) positioned above it.
   

• Mandapa: An open or semi-open space used for prayer and ceremonies.

• Antarala: The space connecting the mandapa and the garbhagriha.
   

• Circular or Square Adhisthana (Platform): The base of the temple.
   

II. Absence of Gopuram or Fortification:

Unlike South Indian temples, Nagara style temples do not have grand entrances or gopurams.
Most of these temples are located in open surroundings.
 

III. Sub-styles:
 

• Latina: A simple straight-line shikhara (example – early Odisha temples).
   

• Valabhi: A shikhara with a canopy, typically found in Jain temples.
   

• Rekha-Prasad: Multi-tiered shikhara with intricate decorative work (example – Khajuraho).
   

IV. Notable Examples:
 

• Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar (Odisha)

• Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)

• Surya Temple, Modhera (Gujarat)
   

V. Conclusion:

The Nagara style is the grandest form of India's architectural tradition, offering a unique blend of religious devotion, art, and architectural beauty.