Which of the following temples has/have a Nagara-style shikhara ? 1. Malegitti Shivalaya, Badami 2. Huchimalligudi Temple, Aihole 3. Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh 4. Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal Select the answer using the code given below :

Option (B) — Huchimalligudi and Dashavatara temples have Nagara shikharas

• Indian temple architecture is broadly classified into the Nagara style of the North and the Dravida style of the South.
• The Nagara style is prominently characterized by a curvilinear tower known as a shikhara, which tapers inward as it rises.
• The Chalukyan sites of Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal are famous for experimenting with both Nagara and Dravida architectural styles in close proximity.

• 1. Malegitti Shivalaya, Badami: Incorrect. This temple features an early structural Dravida style architecture with an octagonal dome, not a Nagara shikhara.
• 2. Huchimalligudi Temple, Aihole: Correct. This Chalukyan temple is topped with a distinct curvilinear Nagara style shikhara.
• 3. Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh: Correct. Built during the Gupta period, it is recognized as one of the earliest examples of a Nagara style shikhara.
• 4. Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal: Incorrect. Built by Queen Lokamahadevi, this temple is a classic example of Dravida style architecture.