Q. Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

  • Chalukya
  • Chandela
  • Rashtrakuta
  • Vijayanagara

Answer: (d) Vijayanagara

Notes:
  • The Vijayanagara Empire (14th to 17th centuries) was known for its rich architectural tradition, with Hampi as the capital, where some of the most exquisite examples of temple architecture were built.
  • Kalyana Mandapas were typically large, pillared halls with intricate carvings that depicted mythological stories, gods, goddesses, and celestial beings.
  • These mandapas were not just architectural marvels but were deeply integrated into the ritualistic and cultural life of the people, especially for conducting marriages of the temple deities, which were considered auspicious.
  • The Virupaksha TempleVittala Temple, and Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi are notable examples of Vijayanagara architecture, where Kalyana Mandapas played a crucial role.
  • Apart from marriage ceremonies, the mandapas were also used during festivals and processions, acting as a place where the community gathered for celebrations.
  • The pillars of the Kalyana Mandapas were often musical, producing different tones when struck, which added to the spiritual and artistic experience within the temple premises.
  • The construction of these mandapas is reflective of the economic prosperity and religious fervor of the Vijayanagara rulers, who were devout Hindus and patrons of temple construction, aimed at unifying religious, social, and economic aspects of their empire.
Kalyana Mantapa (hall) in Someshvara temple at Kolar
Kalyana Mantapa (hall) in Someshvara temple at Kolar