Lecture Notes: Temple Architecture in India

Introduction

• Previous discussion on town planning and road networks in towns.
• Current focus: Temple Architecture in India.

Understanding Temple Architecture

• Importance of knowing different temples and their architecture.
• Highlight of three significant temples: Tanjavur Temple, Sun Temple at Konark, and Kailasa Temple in Ellora.

Tanjavur Temple (Brihadeshwara Temple)

• Built 1000 years ago using granite.
• Design Details:
  • Based on a 16 by 16 squares plan, following Dravida architecture.
  • Vimana (Tower) is 99 feet above the sanctum.
  • Shikhara (Dome) weighs 80 tons, made of a single granite block.
• Construction Marvels:
  • No local supply of granite; unclear how stones were sourced.
  • Features musical pillars that produce sound frequencies.
• Stability:
  • Stable for 1000 years despite earthquakes.
  • Comparison with the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Sun Temple at Konark

• Built in 1250 CE, dedicated to the sun god.
• Design Details:
  • Form of a gigantic chariot with 24 stone wheels (12 ft in diameter).
  • Wheels function as sundials for accurate timekeeping.
  • Seven horses symbolically pulling the chariot.
• Astronomical Significance:
  • First ray of sun reflects off a diamond on the sun god's crown.

Kailasa Temple in Ellora

• Built by Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
• Construction Method:
  • Excavated from top downwards from a Basalt Hill.
  • Resulted in a 32-meter high structure with an octagonal dome.
• Architectural Marvels:
  • Features massive trenches and 16 columns in a mandapa.
  • Known for its remarkable proportions and sculptural treatment.
  • UNESCO recognizes it for bold sculptural compositions.

Conclusion

• The lecture covers only three temples, but many others across India feature beautiful architecture.
• Future discussions will delve into broader aspects of temple architecture, requiring further study.

• Next Steps: Watch the next video for more on temple architecture.
• Closing: Namaste