Consider the structural evolution of early Indian temples: Which Gupta-era temple, located in Madhya Pradesh, is considered one of the earliest examples of a stone temple featuring a flat roof, a single shrine (garbhagriha), and a pillared portico?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Kankali Devi Temple located at Tigawa in Madhya Pradesh is acknowledged as a prime specimen of early Gupta architecture, characterized by a simple square sanctum, a flat roof, and a pillared porch resting on sculpted pillars. Alternative options such as the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh represent a later phase featuring distinctive shikharas. This architectural progression highlights the transition from rock-cut shrines to structural stone masonry in ancient India.