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Hoa Indian Architecture

Indian architecture encompasses a wide range of styles developed over 5,000 years, influenced by various cultural, religious, and geographical factors. Key architectural styles include Nagar, Dravida, and Vesara, each characterized by unique features and regional variations. The evolution of Indian architecture reflects historical changes, from ancient temples to modern structures, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
40 views76 pages

Hoa Indian Architecture

Indian architecture encompasses a wide range of styles developed over 5,000 years, influenced by various cultural, religious, and geographical factors. Key architectural styles include Nagar, Dravida, and Vesara, each characterized by unique features and regional variations. The evolution of Indian architecture reflects historical changes, from ancient temples to modern structures, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

Uploaded by

chakz0605
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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INDIAN

ARCHITECTU
RE
S T U DY O F I N D I A N A RC H I T E C T U RA L S T Y L E S

G R O U P 1 P R E S E N TAT I O N
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

WHAT COMES
TO YOUR
MIND?
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
WHAT IS IT?
Indian architecture refers to the diverse and rich
architectural styles that have evolved in the Indian
subcontinent over thousands of years. Characterized by
regional influences, symbolism, ornamentation, and
sustainability.

OTHER TERM
Indian architecture is also referred to as “Vastu Shastra”
which translates to ancient Indian architectural tradition
that emphasizes harmony between buildings and their
surroundings.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

HISTORY
The history of Indian architecture spans 5,000 years,
weaving cultural, religious, and geographical influences.
From temples to palaces, Indian architecture reflects the
country's dynamic history.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE ARCHITECTURE
EVOLUTION OF INDIAN
• Early Innovations

◦ Primitive structures and natural caves used for shelter in prehistoric times.

Located in Maharashtra, India. Dating back


to 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE.
-29 rock-cut Buddhist cave temples.
-Famous for intricate murals and sculptures
depicting Buddhist mythology and everyday
life .
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

Ajanta Cave
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE ARCHITECTURE
EVOLUTION OF INDIAN
• Indus Valley Civilization (2500 BCE)
◦ Well-planned cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa.
◦ Advanced sanitation systems and urban engineering.
-Mohenjo-Daro (meaning "Mound of
the Dead") is an ancient Indus Valley
Civilization city located in modern-day
Pakistan. It's one of the oldest and
most well-preserved ancient cities in
the world!

-Dating back to around 2500 BCE -


Advanced urban planning with
sophisticated drainage systems - Well-
planned streets, public buildings, and
Mohenjo-daro residential areas
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE ARCHITECTURE
EVOLUTION OF INDIAN
• Vedic Period
◦Emergence of sacred architecture with temples and shrines dedicated to various
deities.
-Ancient Origins: One of the oldest
surviving Hindu temples in India (circa
550 BCE or 625 CE)
-Dedication: Goddess Mundeshwari (a
form of Goddess Shakti)
-Architecture: Unique blend of ancient
Indian architectural styles (Nagara style)
-Preservation: Relatively well-preserved
(over 1,300 years old)
-Cultural Significance: Immense cultural
and historical significance, attracting
devotees and tourists
Mundeshwari Devi Temple
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE ARCHITECTURE
EVOLUTION OF INDIAN
• Modernism and Contemporary Trends
◦ Post-independence focus on modernization and
urbanization.
◦ Adoption of new materials and design philosophies.
- Established: 1961
- Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India -
Type: Public business school - Nickname:
IIMA - Programmes: MBA, PGP, FPM,
Executive Education - Rankings:
Consistently ranked among the top business
schools in India and Asia - Campus: 102-
acre campus, designed by architect Louis
The Indian Institute of Kahn
Management, Ahmedabad
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
LUTION OF INDIAN ARCHITECTURE
• Regional Diversity
◦ Unique architectural styles across regions (e.g., forts in Rajasthan, temples in Tamil
Nadu).
Built by: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan
- Completed in: 1653
- Location: Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Architecture: Mughal architecture, blending
Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles
-Purpose: Mausoleum for Shah Jahan's wife,
Mumtaz Mahal
- Materials: White marble, red sandstone, and
precious stones
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Since 1983 -
Taj Mahal, Agra One of the Seven Wonders of the Modern
World.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
VOLUTION OF INDIAN ARCHITECTURE
• Revival of Traditional Techniques
◦ Growing appreciation for architectural - Founder: Gyalwang Drukpa
heritage.
- Established: 1992
◦ Emphasis on vernacular architecture and - Objective: Preserve Ladakhi culture while
sustainable building practices. equipping students for the 21st century
- Architecture: Blend of traditional Ladakhi
and modern sustainable design
- Sustainable Features: Passive solar
heating, solar panels, gravity-fed water
system, and dry latrines
- Capacity: Over 500 students
- Awards: Received awards for sustainable
The Druk White Lotus School, Ladakh design and architecture
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE ARCHITECTURE
EVOLUTION OF INDIAN
• Medieval Period
- Built by: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan
◦ Islamic influences introduced new
architectural styles (arches, domes, minarets). - Completed in: 1656 - Location: Old
Delhi, India
- Architecture: Mughal architecture,
blending Indian, Persian, and Islamic
styles - Capacity: Can accommodate up
to 25,000 worshippers
- Features: Four towers, two minarets,
and three domes
- Importance: One of the largest and
most important mosques in India
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of the
Jama Masjid, Delhi
"Red Fort Complex" UNESCO listing
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE ARCHITECTURE
EVOLUTION OF INDIAN
•Colonial Era
◦ Fusion of European, Indian, and Islamic elements (Indo-Saracenic style).
◦ Grand public buildings in cities like Kolkata and Mumbai (e.g., Victoria Memorial,
Gateway of India).

- Built by: William Emerson


- Completed: 1921
- Location: Kolkata, India
- Architecture: Indo-
Saracenic Revival
- Purpose: Memorial to
Queen Victoria

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
HAT IS INDIAN ARCHITECTURE KNOWN FOR?

Indian architecture is distinguished by its integration


of traditional vernacular elements, particularly in
southern India, where heritage styles remain well
preserved. It reflects religious diversity, incorporating
Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and Jain influences. Over
time, it has evolved through cultural exchanges with
the Persians, Mughals, and British, shaping its unique
identity.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
THE MOST COMMON FEATURES OF INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE

ORNATE TEMPLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
THE MOST COMMON FEATURES OF INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE

MOSQUE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
THE MOST COMMON FEATURES OF INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE

FORTS
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
THE THREE MAJOR STYLES OF TEMPLE
ARCHITECTURE IN INDIA
THE THREE MAJOR STYLES OF TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE
IN THE COUNTRY ARE KNOWN AS NAGARA IN THE
NORTH, DRAVIDIAN IN THE SOUTH, AND VESARA IN THE
CENTRAL REGION. NAGARA TEMPLES ARE TYPICALLY
TALL AND HAVE A PYRAMIDAL STRUCTURE, WHILE
DRAVIDIAN TEMPLES ARE SHORTER AND HAVE A
SQUARE OR RECTANGULAR STRUCTURE. VESARA
TEMPLES ARE A FUSION OF THE TWO STYLES, WITH
ELEMENTS OF BOTH NAGARA AND DRAVIDIAN
ARCHITECTURE.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
NAGARA STYLE:
THE NAGARA STYLE OF TEMPLE
ARCHITECTURE IS FOUND IN
THE NORTHERN PARTS OF INDIA
AND IS CHARACTERIZED BY ITS
TALL, SLENDER SPIRES. THIS
STYLE IS HEAVILY INFLUENCED
BY THE GUPTA PERIOD OF
INDIAN HISTORY AND IS OFTEN
REFERRED TO AS THE
“CLASSICAL” STYLE OF INDIAN
TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
NAGARA STYLE:
• AMALAKA – A CIRCULAR, RIBBED STONE DISK PLACED ATOP THE
TEMPLE'S SHIKHARA (TOWER). SYMBOLIZE THE CELESTIAL REALM
• AXIS MUNDI – THE VERTICAL AXIS RUNNING THROUGH THE
TEMPLE, CONNECTING THE EARTHLY REALM TO THE DIVINE.
• SHIKHARA – THE TOWERING, CURVILINEAR STRUCTURE ABOVE THE
SANCTUM (GARBHA GRIHA). REPRESENTS MOUNT MERU.
• GARBHA GRIHA – THE INNERMOST SANCTUM WHERE THE MAIN
DEITY'S IDOL IS ENSHRINED.
• IDOL – THE SACRED DEITY OR REPRESENTATION HOUSED INSIDE
THE GARBHA GRIHA.
• MANDAPAS – PILLARED HALLS USED FOR CONGREGATIONAL
GATHERINGS AND PRAYERS.
• PLINTH – THE RAISED PLATFORM ON WHICH THE TEMPLE
STRUCTURE STAND
• KALASHA – THE FINAL POT-LIKE STRUCTURE PLACED ABOVE THE
AMALAKA, SIGNIFYING THE TEMPLE’S PINNACLE.
• ANTARALA – THE TRANSITIONAL SPACE OR VESTIBULE BETWEEN
THE GARBHA GRIHA (SANCTUM) AND THE MANDAPA (PILLARED
HALL).
• JAGATI – THE TEMPLE PLATFORM THAT RAISES THE ENTIRE
STRUCTURE, OFTEN ALLOWING CIRCUMAMBULATION
(PRADAKSHINA).
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
DRAVIDA STYLE:

DRAVIDIAN ARCHITECTURE IS A SOUTH INDIAN HINDU TEMPLE


STYLE THAT DEVELOPED FULLY BY THE 16TH CENTURY. UNLIKE
NORTH INDIAN TEMPLES WITH TALL, CURVING SHIKHARAS,
DRAVIDIAN TEMPLES FEATURE SHORTER, PYRAMIDAL VIMANAS
OVER THE SANCTUM. MODERN TEMPLES OFTEN HAVE
TOWERING GOPURAS (GATEWAYS) THAT DOMINATE THE
COMPLEX. OTHER KEY FEATURES INCLUDE DWARAPALAKAS
(GUARDIAN FIGURES) AT ENTRANCES AND GOSHTAMS (NICHE
CARVINGS OF DEITIES) ON OUTER WALLS.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
DRAVIDA STYLE:
DWARAPALAKAS (GUARDIAN GOSHTAMS (NICHE CARVINGS OF
FIGURES) DEITIES)
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
DRAVIDA STYLE:
• GOPURAM – THE ORNATE ENTRANCE GATEWAY
OF THE TEMPLE COMPLEX, OFTEN TOWERING
AND ELABORATELY DECORATED IN LARGER
TEMPLES.
• MANDAPA – A PILLARED HALL USED FOR
GATHERINGS, RITUALS, AND RELIGIOUS
DISCOURSES, CONNECTING DIFFERENT PARTS
OF THE TEMPLE.
• GARBHA GRIHA – THE SANCTUM SANCTORUM,
THE INNERMOST CHAMBER WHERE THE MAIN
DEITY'S IDOL OR LINGA IS ENSHRINED.
• VIMANA – THE PYRAMIDAL TOWER BUILT ABOVE
THE GARBHA GRIHA, TYPICALLY TIERED AND
SHORTER COMPARED TO NAGARA-STYLE
TEMPLES.
• SHIKHARA – THE TOPMOST PART OF THE
VIMANA, SOMETIMES CROWNED WITH A
KALASHA (SACRED FINIAL)
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
NAGARA VS DRAVIDA
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
VESARA STYLE:
THE VESARA STYLE OF TEMPLE
ARCHITECTURE IS A MIX OF THE
NAGARA AND DRAVIDA STYLES
AND IS FOUND IN THE CENTRAL
AND SOUTHERN PARTS OF
INDIA. THIS STYLE IS
CHARACTERIZED BY ITS USE OF
ORNATE, CARVED PILLARS AND
ITS OVERALL “FUSION” OF
DIFFERENT ARCHITECTURAL
STYLES.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
VESARA STYLE:
• EMERGED DURING THE EARLY MEDIEVAL PERIOD
• HYBRID STYLE COMBINING NAGARA (NORTH INDIAN) AND DRAVIDA (SOUTH
INDIAN) ARCHITECTURE
• DEVELOPED IN THE DECCAN REGION UNDER THE LATER CHALUKYAS OF KALYANI
AND HOYSALAS
• REDUCES THE HEIGHT OF TEMPLE TOWERS WHILE RETAINING MULTIPLE TIERS
• INCORPORATES SEMI-CIRCULAR STRUCTURES INSPIRED BY BUDDHIST CHAITYAS
(E.G., DURGA TEMPLE, AIHOLE)
• MANY CENTRAL INDIAN AND DECCAN TEMPLES ADOPTED VESARA WITH
REGIONAL MODIFICATIONS
• PAPANATHA TEMPLE (680 AD) AT PATTADAKAL IS A KEY EXAMPLE OF THIS STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
NAGARA VS DRAVIDA VS VESARA
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

NAGARA, DRAVIDA, OR VESARA?


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

KANDARIYA MAHADEV TEMPLE (KHAJURAHO, MADHYA PRADESH)


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

KANDARIYA MAHADEV TEMPLE (KHAJURAHO, MADHYA PRADESH)

NAGARA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

CHENNAKESAVA TEMPLE (BELUR,


KARNATAKA)
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

CHENNAKESAVA TEMPLE (BELUR,


KARNATAKA)

VESARA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

PAPANATHA TEMPLE (PATTADAKAL, KARNATAKA)


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

PAPANATHA TEMPLE (PATTADAKAL, KARNATAKA)

VESARA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

VISHWANATH TEMPLE (KHAJURAHO, MADHYA PRADESH)


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

VISHWANATH TEMPLE (KHAJURAHO, MADHYA PRADESH)

NAGARA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

BRIHADESHVARA TEMPLE, THANJAVUR


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

BRIHADESHVARA TEMPLE, THANJAVUR

DRAVIDA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

BRIHADESHVARA TEMPLE, THANJAVUR

DRAVIDA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

MEENAKSHI TEMPLE (MADURAI, TAMIL


NADU)
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

MEENAKSHI TEMPLE (MADURAI, TAMIL


NADU)

DRAVIDA STYLE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
KEY CHARACTERISTICS
• DIVERSITY OF STYLES AND REGIONAL
VARIATIONS
• INTEGRATION WITH NATURE AND USE OF LOCAL
MATERIALS
• USE OF ORNAMENTATION
• SYMBOLISM AND SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE
• USE OF LIGHT AND SHADOW
• MONUMENTALITY AND SCALE
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
1. Diversity of Styles and Regional Variations
​•​Indian architecture varies significantly across regions, influenced by geography,
culture, and historical rulers. The major styles include Nagara (North Indian temples),
Dravidian (South Indian temples), and Vesara (a mix of both)

A Nagara temple, it is placed on a high


platform accessed by stairs. There are
four smaller temples in the corners, and
all the towers or shikharas rise high,
upward in a curved pyramidal fashion,
emphasizing the temple's vertical thrust
ending in a horizontal fluted disc called
an amalak topped with a kalash or vase.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
1. Diversity of Styles and Regional Variations
​•​Indian architecture varies significantly across regions, influenced by geography,
culture, and historical rulers. The major styles include Nagara (North Indian temples),
Dravidian (South Indian temples), and Vesara (a mix of both)

• The Dravida temple is enclosed within a compound


wall.
• The front wall has an entrance gateway in its centre,
which is known as a Gopuram.
• The shape of the main temple tower known as
vimana in Tamil Nadu is like a stepped pyramid that
rises up geometrically rather than the curving
shikhara of North India.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
1. DIVERSITY OF STYLES AND REGIONAL VARIATIONS
​•​Indian architecture varies significantly across regions, influenced by geography,
culture, and historical rulers. The major styles include Nagara (North Indian temples),
Dravidian (South Indian temples), and Vesara (a mix of both)

Vesara is a hybrid form of Indian temple


architecture that combines Dravidian
Southern Indian site layouts with shape
details characteristic of the Nagara style of
North India. This fusion style likely
originated in the historic architecture
schools of the Dharwad region
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
2. INTEGRATION WITH NATURE AND USE OF LOCAL MATERIALS
​•​Ancient Indian architects often integrated their structures seamlessly with the
surrounding environment. They frequently used natural materials such as wood,
stone, and clay, blending their creations harmoniously with the landscape.
• Rock-cut architecture is the creation of
structures, buildings, and sculptures by
excavating solid rock where it naturally
occurs. Intensely laborious when using
ancient tools and methods, rock-cut
architecture was presumably combined with
quarrying the rock for use elsewhere.
• The three main uses of rock-cut architecture
were temples (like those in India), tombs, and
dwellings (like those in Cappadocia).
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE draws
• Modern Indian architecture inspiration from traditional elements like
context, climate, craft, and sustainability.
• A new architectural style is emerging, combining modern construction techniques
with local practices.
• Architects like Charles Correa, Raj Rewal, and B.V. Doshi developed building
principles based on local culture and climate.
• They integrated local materials with modern techniques to create a distinct
architectural identity.
• These principles continue to shape modern Indian architecture today.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Jaali
• Jaali is a local term for "perforated block."
• It can be made from materials like brick, cement, terracotta, and
wood.
• The concept is borrowed from the Rajput and Mughal eras.
• Jaali blocks create intricate patterns of light and shadow while
providing ventilation.
• The interplay of solid and void has become a cultural symbol in
contemporary Indian architecture.
• Eart • Jaali design serves as inspiration for designers across the country.
• Growing demand for sustainable architecture has increased the
h prominence of vernacular earth construction in India.
• Local architecture practices are exploring various forms of earth
as a building material.
• Techniques include rammed earth, wattle and daub, earth and
straw, and compressed earth bricks.
• These methods emphasize sustainability and the use of local
resources.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Lim
e • Traditional lime plaster technique is experiencing a revival in
India.
• It is valued for its breathability and aesthetic qualities.
• Lime artisans have refined this eco-friendly method over
generations.
• Special mixes and tools are used to prepare and apply lime
plaster on surfaces.

• Mud and
Dung • Mud and dung plaster utilizes locally sourced mud and cow dung,
rooted in ancient Vedic practices.
• This mixture is known for its superior insulation, water-repellant,
and antiseptic properties.
• The practice is commonly found in villages across India.
• There is a revival and experimentation with mud and dung plaster
in urban areas.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Thatc
h • Thatch is one of the earliest recognized forms of vernacular
architecture in India.
• The roofing system involves using locally available dry
vegetation.
• Thatching protects interiors from water and various climatic
conditions.
• In contemporary architecture, thatch is appreciated as a
• Stone meditative, natural, and humble element.
• India boasts a diverse range of stones, including granites, marbles,
sandstone, slate, and limestone.
• Stone has been used from ancient temples to modern luxury
houses.
• It provides interesting textures and patterns to a building's material
palette.
• Locally available stone is cost-effective and contributes to
regionally unique aesthetics in architecture.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Wood
• Wood is a popular construction material in the Himalayan region.
• It is vernacular to the area, commonly used in temple
construction.
• Practical reasons for using wood include its suitability for local
climatic conditions.
• Wood also holds religious significance in the region.
• Aesthetic qualities of wood are appreciated in other parts of the
country.
• Bambo
o • India is the second-largest producer of bamboo in the world.
• The country is home to many artisan communities skilled in
bamboo construction.
• Traditional building practices using bamboo vary across India,
influenced by local landscapes and climatic conditions.
• Bamboo is particularly famous in the Northeast region of India.
• It is increasingly being utilized in experimental projects
throughout the country.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Oxid
• Oxide is a natural material known for its earthy, shiny, and
e
colorful finish.
• The technique was introduced to India by the Portuguese
and Italians through trade.
• Local artisans experimented with oxide to develop
methodologies suited to their specific contexts.
• The practice of using oxide finishes is particularly popular in
the southern regions of India.
• Concrete
• Post-independent India saw a desire for growth and
prosperity, with concrete symbolizing modernism and
progress.
• Concrete is valued for its cooling properties and minimalistic
finish.
• Le Corbusier was a pioneer in the use of concrete in India.
• His architectural visions continue to influence local
architects today.
INDIANARCHITECTU
3. USE OF RE
Ornamentation
ORNAMENTATIONin Indian architecture is vast and varied, spanning across
different historical periods, regions, and architectural styles.

• Sculptural and Carved • Jali Work (Lattice


Ornamentation Screens)

Khajuraho, Madhya
Pradesh Sidi Saiyyid Ni Jali In
Ahmedabad
INDIANARCHITECTU
• Frescoes & Murals
RE • Pietra Dura (Marble Inlay
Work)

the tomb of his favourite


wife, Mumtaz Mahal
bodhisattvas
Padmapani, Ajanta Shekhawati Havelis
Cave (Rajasthan)
INDIANARCHITECTU
• Arche RE
s
INDIANARCHITECTU
• Pillars RE
Major Pillar Inscriptions
• Sarnath Lion Capital was erected by
Ashoka in Varanasi to commemorate
Dhammachakrapravartana or Buddha’s
first discourse.
• Single lion on Vaishali Pillar in Bihar,
with no inscription.
• Uttar Pradesh’s Sankissa Pillar
• Champaran, Bihar: Lauriya-
Nandangarth.
• Champaran, Bihar: Lauriya-Araraj
• Uttar Pradesh’s Allahabad pillar.
INDIANARCHITECTU
• Domes RE • Finials

Large, curved structures Ornamental spires or lotus-shaped elements at


symbolizing the heavens, commonly the top of domes and shikharas (temple
seen in Islamic and Mughal buildings towers).

The Golden
Temple is a
gurdwara
located in
Amritsar,
Punjab, India.

Gol Gumbaz
also written Gol Gumbad is a 17th-century
mausoleum located in Bijapur, a city in
Karnataka, India.
INDIANARCHITECTU
• Chhatris RE
• Chhatri are semi-open, elevated, dome-shaped pavilions used as an element
in Indo-Islamic architecture and Indian architecture.
• Small decorative domes supported by pillars, typical in Rajput palaces and
forts

Bada Bagh, also called Barabagh (lit. "grand


garden" in Hindi) is a garden complex
located about six kilometers north of
Jaisalmer in the Indian state of Rajasthan.
Overlooking a mango plantation sits a set of
royal chhatri cenotaphs constructed by the
kings of the Jaisalmer State in the 18th, 19th
and early 20th centuries CE.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RESpiritual
• Symbolism and
Significance
• Vastu Shastra (Sacred Geometry & Cosmic Alignment) – Ancient architectural
science ensuring harmony with nature and cosmic energy.
• Mandala & Sacred Geometry – Architectural layouts representing the
universe and divine order.
• Shikhara (Temple Tower) – Symbolizes Mount Meru, the cosmic axis of the
universe.
• Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) – Represents the womb of creation and
divine presence.
• Domes (Gumbad) – Symbol of the celestial heavens in Islamic and Mughal
architecture.
• Mehrab (Arches) – Signifies a gateway to paradise, commonly found in
mosques.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RESpiritual
• Symbolism and
Significance
• Stupas (Buddhist Monuments) – Represent Buddha’s enlightened mind and
cosmic balance.
• Tirthankara Carvings (Jain Temples) – Symbolize purity and liberation from
worldly attachments.
• Sacred Tanks (Kunds) & Stepwells – Represent purification and spiritual
renewal.
• Ghats (Riverfront Steps) – Symbolize the journey from life to salvation
through sacred waters.
• Animals Symbolism- Indian architecture beautifully integrates animals as
symbols of strength, divinity, and protection. These intricate carvings
and sculptures remind us of the deep-rooted respect for nature in Indian
culture.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Use of light and
shadow
• Light and shadow play a significant role in Indian architecture, serving
both functional and symbolic purposes. Indian architects have historically
used natural light, intricate carvings, and spatial planning to enhance
aesthetics, regulate temperature, and create spiritual experiences.

• The use of light and shadow in Indian architecture is both practical and
artistic, enhancing spiritual symbolism, cooling effects, and aesthetic
appeal. Whether through temple alignment, jali screens, stepwells, mirror
work, or fort defenses, light has been an essential design element in
traditional Indian structures.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
4. MONUMENTALITY AND SCALE

• Monumentality in Indian Architecture

​ .​Religious Structures: Many of India’s most monumental buildings are religious in nature,
1
designed to inspire awe and devotion. Temples, mosques, and stupas are built on a vast
scale, often incorporating towering shikharas (spires) or domes.


•​The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu
(11th century) has a 66-meter-tall vimana (temple
tower) made of massive stone blocks.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
The Sun Temple at Konark is designed as
a colossal stone chariot, symbolizing divine
movement.

The Taj Mahal, with its grand white


marble dome and expansive gardens,
exemplifies Mughal monumentality.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Scale in Architecture

1. Vertical Scale: Temples and monuments reach for the sky, symbolizing spiritual
ascent and cosmic connection.

• The Virupaksha Temple tower in Hampi (52


meters) dominates the landscape.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
• Scale in Architecture

• The Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick


minaret (73 meters).
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

FAMOUS INDIAN STRUCTURES


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

FAMOUS INDIAN STRUCTURES


INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE
HAWA
Hawa Mahal, also known as the
"Palace of Winds," is a prominent

MAHAL landmark in Jaipur, Rajasthan,


India, famous for its unique
honeycomb-like structure with
numerous small windows,
designed to allow the royal ladies
to observe the city streets while
remaining unseen. It is particularly
notable for its pyramidal shape
resembling Lord Krishna's crown,
which is why it's often called "the
crown of Jaipur.". And the Primarily
purpose is to built for the royal
women to observe the bustling
streets of Jaipur without being
seen themselves.
INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE
SRI HARMANDIR Sri Harmandir Sahib, also widely
known as the "Golden Temple."
SAHIB Harmandir Sahib" translates to "The
Abode of God". is the holiest shrine in
Sikhism, located in Amritsar, Punjab,
India. The temple has four entrances,
symbolizing openness to people from
all directions . It's a significant
pilgrimage site for Sikhs due to its
central position within the Sikh faith,
where people of all castes, creeds,
and religions are welcomed equally,
and is particularly recognized for its
golden dome and the surrounding
sacred pool called "Amrit Sarovar"
(Pool of Nectar).
INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE
TAJ MAHAL
The Taj Mahal is a white
marble mausoleum in Agra,
India, that was built between
1631 and 1648. It is a
symbol of love and one of
the most famous landmarks
in INDIA. The Taj Mahal is
known for its beauty and
symmetry. It was designated
a UNESCO World Heritage
site in 1983.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE

FAMOUS INDIAN ARCHITECTS


INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
FAMOUS INDIAN ARCHITECTS
A female Indian architect and urban conservationist,
known for her incredible work in merging architecture,
conservation, and social equity. Born on June 28, 1949,
Somaya studied architecture at Mumbai University and
later earned her Master of Arts degree from Smith
College in Northampton, Massachusetts.
Somaya Work:
• Tata Consultancy Services, Banyan Park, Mumbai. A
corporate campus that showcases her expertise in
master-planning and building design.
• Nalanda International School, Vadodara. A school
campus that refl ects her philosophy of merging
architecture, conservation, and social equity.

Awards and Honors:


Brinda Somaya
• The Indian Institute of Architects' Baburao Mhatre
Gold Medal for Lifetime Achievement and the UNESCO
Asia-Pacifi c Heritage Award
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
FAMOUS INDIAN ARCHITECTS
A renowned Indian architect and urban planner,
celebrated for his sensitivity to the needs of the
urban poor and his use of traditional methods and
materials. Born on September 1, 1930, in
Secunderabad, Correa went on to study at the
University of Michigan and the Massachusetts
Institute of Technology, where he obtained his
master's degree.

Charles Correa Work:


• Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Built in
1967 in Bhopal.
• Sonmarg apartments. His fi rst high-rise building,
designed in 1961-1966 in Mumbai.

Awards and honors:


Charles Mark Correa • Padma Shri (1972)
• Padma Vibhushan (2006)
• ROYAL GOLD MEDAL FOR ARCHITECTURE FROM THE
ROYAL INSTITUTE OF BRITISH ARCHITECTS (1984)
INDIANARCHITECTU
FAMOUS INDIAN RE
ARCHITECTS
A Pioneer of Modern Indian Architecture, known as “B.V.
Doshi”, born on August 26, 1927, and passed away on
January 24, 2023, was a prominent Indian architect, artist,
and educator, often referred to as the "father of Indian
architecture." Renowned for his modernist designs, he
emphasized the importance of climate, landscape, and
urbanization in his work, utilizing natural elements and
materials. Doshi was committed to aff ordable housing and
improving living conditions for low-to -middle-income families.

B.V D oshi Works:


• Amdavad ni Gufa. Underground Art Gallery and Cultural
Center designed in 1992-1995 in Ahmedabad, India.
• Indian Institute of Management. Renowned business school
in 1997 located in Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

Balkrishna VithaldasAwards and Honors:


• Pritzker Architecture Prize (2018)
Doshi • Padma Shri, Letters,and Aga Khan Award.
INDIANARCHITECTU
RE
FAMOUS INDIAN ARCHITECTS
A Leading Architect of Modern India born in 1934, is
renowned for his unique blend of modernism and traditional
Indian architectural elements. Educated in Delhi and London,
his designs are characterized by masterful geometry, the
use of traditional materials like sandstone and brick, and a
strong consideration for climate.

Rewal Works:
• Parliament Library, New Delhi. A Contemporary Indian
Architecture built in 1989-2003
• Hall of Nations, New Delhi. Prominent Exhibition Hall and
a part of Pragati Maidan complex in 1970-1972 .
Previously one of his signifi cant projects, has since been
demolished.

Rewal Awards and Honors:


• Padma Bhushan
Raj Rewal • Aga Khan Award for Architecture
• Global Award for Sustainable Architecture
THANK YOU!

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