Building 'Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

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Question

Building 'Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

Accepted Answer

Correct Answer: D — VijayanagaraStep-by-step Solution:The Kalyana Mandapa (also spelled Kalyana Mandapam or Mahamandapa) was a distinctive architectural feature of temples built during the Vijayanagara Empire (1336–1646 CE). The Kalyana Mandapa was the 'marriage hall' or 'wedding pavilion' within a temple complex — specifically designed for celebrating divine weddings (particularly the celestial marriage ceremonies of the presiding deity), a ritual that became especially prominent in Vijayanagara-era temple culture.Key features of Vijayanagara temple architecture: (1) Massive gopurams (towered gateways) that became taller and more elaborate than the vimana (main shrine); (2) Kalyana Mandapas — separate pavilions for divine wedding ceremonies; (3) Rayagopurams — tall gateways; (4) Thousand-pillared halls; (5) Elaborate sculptural programmes featuring secular as well as divine themes; (6) Amman shrines (for the goddess); (7) Use of hard granite stone. Famous examples of Vijayanagara temples with Kalyana Mandapas: Vittala Temple complex at Hampi; Hazara Rama Temple; Lepakshi Temple (Andhra Pradesh).Why other options are incorrect:Option A (Chalukya): Chalukya temples (Badami Chalukyas and Western Chalukyas) are known for Deccan/Vesara architectural style — not specifically for Kalyana Mandapas. Examples: Pattadakal temples, Aihole.Option B (Chandela): Chandela temples are famous for the Khajuraho group (Madhya Pradesh) — known for erotic sculptures and North Indian Nagara style. Not associated with Kalyana Mandapas.Option C (Rashtrakuta): Rashtrakutas are associated with the Kailasa Temple at Ellora (rock-cut cave temple) — not Kalyana Mandapas.Key Concept: Vijayanagara architecture: Dravida style temples with distinctive Vijayanagara modifications; large temple complexes (brahmotsava); the 'marriage festival' of the deity became a major occasion; Kalyana Mandapa construction became standardised; Srirangam (TN), Tirupati, Hampi, Madurai (Nayakas continued Vijayanagara traditions) all show this architectural feature. Hampi's Vittala Temple and its musical pillars (produce musical notes when struck) are iconic Vijayanagara architecture.

Building 'Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

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Building 'Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

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