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shekhari

Indian architecture
Also known as: śekharī

Quick Summary

The shekhari is a distinctive style of North Indian temple architecture, characterized by its curvilinear shikhara (spire or tower) above the sanctuary. This style is a variation of the latina type of spire, featuring a central latina spire with additional half-spires on the sides and miniature spires clustered at the base and corners. This creates a complex, mountain-like appearance with subsidiary peaks.12

The shekhari style became popular from the 10th century onward and is prominently seen in Central Indian temples, such as the Lakshmana and Kandarya Mahadeva temples at Khajuraho. This architectural form is a key element of Hindu temple design in northern India, contributing to the overall aesthetic and spiritual significance of the structure.21

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