three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent
B
three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified
C
three main styles of Indian temple architecture
D
three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India
Correct Answer: Option C
Explanation
1. The terms Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara refer to the three main styles of classical Indian temple architecture, primarily differentiated by the shape of the shikhara (superstructure) and overall plan.
2. The Nagara style is typically found in North India and is characterized by a curvilinear shikhara.
3. The Dravida style is prevalent in South India, characterized by a pyramid-shaped vimana (superstructure).
4. The Vesara style is considered a hybrid style, incorporating elements of both Nagara and Dravida styles, often found in the Deccan region.
5. Option (A) is incorrect; these are not racial groups.
6. Option (B) is incorrect; these are not linguistic divisions (like Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, etc.).
7. Option (D) is incorrect; these are not musical Gharanas (schools of Hindustani classical music).
8. Therefore, option (C) correctly identifies them as styles of Indian temple architecture.