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How do latina and phamsana temple spires differ?
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South Asian arts
The mridangam, the principal drum of the Carnatic music tradition.
In North Indian temple architecture, the shikhara (spire) is the most prominent feature, and it is primarily classified into two types based on its shape and placement: the latina and the phamsana.123
The differences between them are as follows:
- Shape: The latina spire is characterized by a curvilinear outline, whereas the phamsana spire is rectilinear in shape and generally lower in height.123
- Construction: Both are composed of horizontal roof slabs, but the latina is covered with a creeper-like tracery of diminutive chandrashalas (ogee arches) and features offsets known as latas. The phamsana is capped by a bell-shaped member called a ghanta.12
- Placement: The latina type (and its elaborate variants, such as the shekhari and bhumija) is typically found above the main sanctum (garbhagriha), serving as the temple's most dominant feature. The phamsana style is more commonly found above the mandapas (pillared halls).123