When the fully developed splendid form of temple architecture emerged in India?
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First century B. C.
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Fourth century B. C.
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Sixth century A. D.
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Eight century A. D.
The fully developed, splendid form of temple architecture emerged in India around the 8th century A.D. (eighth century). This period saw the development of the Nagara style in North India (exemplified by the Khajuraho temples) and the Dravida style in South India (exemplified by the Brihadeeswarar temple). The earlier centuries had more modest structural forms, but the 8th century onward marked the golden age of Indian temple architecture with elaborate shikharas, vimanas, and sculptural work. Option D is correct.
By around the 8th century A.D., Indian temple architecture had matured into its fully developed classical forms, with distinct Nagara (North Indian) and Dravida (South Indian) styles showing elaborate shikharas, mandapas, and sculptural programs. Earlier centuries saw only the beginnings of structural temple building, so they don't represent this 'splendid' mature phase.