sikhara

(noun)

A Sanskrit word translating literally to "mountain peak", referring to the rising tower in the Hindu temple architecture of North India.

Related Terms

Examples of sikhara in the following topics:

  • Temple Style of the North

    • Śikhara, a Sanskrit word that translates literally to "mountain peak", refers to the tallest tower in Northern Hindu temple architecture.
    • Because the sikhara tower is always situated over the sanctum sanctorum, where the presiding deity is enshrined, it is the most prominent and visible part of this temple's architecture.
    • Originally, the sikharas were homogeneous in design, but over time, secondary sikharas, which are smaller and narrower, have been plated on the sides of many of these main sikharas.

  • Northern Style Temples in Southeast Asia

    • Śikhara, a Sanskrit word that translates literally to "mountain peak", refers to the tallest tower in Northern Hindu temple architecture.
    • Because the sikhara tower is always situated over the sanctum sanctorum, where the presiding deity is enshrined, it is the most prominent and visible part of this temple's architecture.
    • Originally, the sikharas were homogeneous in design, but over time, secondary sikharas, which are smaller and narrower, have been plated on the sides of many of these main sikharas.