Architecture II: Temples, Havelis & Stepwells

1. Rajasthan Temple Architecture

Rajasthan temples primarily belong to the Nagara Style but show unique regional sub-styles: • Maha-Maru Style (8th-10th Cent): Developed by Gurjara-Pratiharas. Features: Harshat Mata (Abhaneri), Osian temples. • Maru-Gurjara Style (11th-13th Cent): Characterized by intricate carvings. Examples: Dilwara, Ranakpur, Kiradu.

Iconic Temples:

• Ranakpur Jain Temple (Pali): Built by Dharna Shah; Architect - Deepak. Has 1444 unique pillars ('Forest of Pillars'). • Dilwara Jain Temples (Mt. Abu): Vimal Vasahi (1031 AD) and Luna Vasahi (1230 AD) are famous for marble minatures. • Kiradu Temples (Barmer): Known as the 'Khajuraho of Rajasthan'. • Brahma Temple (Pushkar): One of the world's few temples for Brahma; houses sun god idol wearing shoes.

2. Grand Havelis of Rajasthan

Havelis are mansions known for their fresco paintings and latticed windows (Jharokhas). • Patwon ki Haveli (Jaisalmer): Largest in Jaisalmer; built by Guman Chand Patwa. A blend of Indian, Sindh, and Mughal styles. • Salim Singh Haveli: Known as 'Roopmahal' or 'Kamal Mahal' for its ship-like top floor. • Bagore Haveli (Udaipur): Built by Amarchand Badwa. Houses the world's largest turban. • Shekhawati Region: Known as the 'Open Air Art Gallery' for its widespread frescoed havelis.

3. Stepwells (Baoris) - Water Marvels

Stepwells provided water and social hubs in arid Rajasthan. • Chand Baori (Abhaneri, Dausa): Deepest stepwell in India (13 stories, 3500 steps). Built by King Chanda (Nikumbh Pratihara). • Raniji Ki Baori (Bundi): Built by Rani Nathavati; considered the most beautiful architecturally in Bundi. • Neemrana Baori: 9-story stepwell built for travelers on the Delhi-Jaipur route.