Consider the following statements about the Nagara style of temple architecture : 1. This style of temples are commonly found in the areas between Himalayas and Vindhyas. 2. The most striking feature of this style is its pyramidal shikhara. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

Statement 1 is correct as the Nagara style of temple architecture is historically associated with the region between the Himalayas and the Vindhyas [1]. This style is often referred to as the Northern or Indo-Aryan style [1]. Statement 2 is incorrect because the most striking feature of the Nagara style is its curvilinear shikhara, which curves inward towards the top [2]. In contrast, the pyramidal elevation of the tower (Vimana) is a characteristic feature of the Dravida or Southern style of architecture [1]. While Nagara temples feature a shikhara capped by an amalaka (a stone disc), the Dravidian style utilizes a pyramid-shaped tower consisting of progressively smaller storeys [2]. Therefore, only the first statement regarding the geographical distribution of the Nagara style is accurate.

Sources

1. [1] https://www.mcrhrdi.gov.in/army/week4/syndicate/group1.pdf
2. [2] https://www.jstor.org/stable/44304725