art and culture

Cave Architecture, History, Types and Examples

India boasts a rich heritage of cave architecture, exemplified by sites such as Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, showcasing intricate Buddhist rock-cut temples. Elephanta Caves in Mumbai feature Hindu sculptures, including the impressive Trimurti. Badami Cave Temples in Karnataka...

Post Mauryan Architecture, Gandhara and Mathura Schools

Post-Mauryan architecture in ancient India refers to the architectural developments that took place after the decline of the Mauryan Empire, which lasted from approximately 322 BCE to 185 BCE. The Mauryan Empire, under the rule of Chandragupta Maurya and later...

Influence of Buddhism and Jainism on Indian Architecture

Buddhism and Jainism, two ancient religious traditions that originated in India, have had a profound influence on Indian architecture. Both religions emerged in the 6th century BCE as reactions against the ritualistic practices of Brahmanism (early Hinduism) and emphasized non-violence,...

Architectural Style of Harappan Civilisation, Town Planning and Sculptures

The Harappan Civilization, South Asia's pioneering urban society in the Bronze Age, showcased advanced architectural prowess. Notable features include grid-patterned streets, standardized kiln-fired bricks, two-tiered city structures with citadels and lower towns, and iconic structures like the Great Bath. Harappan...

Mauryan Architecture (322-182 BC), Stupas, Pillars and Rock Cut Architecture

The Mauryan Empire, thriving from the 4th to 2nd centuries BC (322 BC to 182 BC), made a profound impact on Indian history through its artistic and architectural achievements. Notably, Mauryan Architecture of sandstone pillars, featuring inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka's...

Evolution of Architecture in India, History and Development

The evolution of Indian architecture spans over 4500 years, commencing with the Indus Valley Civilization around 2600 BC. Notable features include astute drainage systems, mud-bricked structures, and stone figurines. The Maurya Empire introduced impressive rock-cut architecture, notably Buddhist monasteries with...

Modern Indian Theater and Drama, Traditional Forms and Famous Personalities

Modern Indian theater, shaped by the convergence of Sanskrit, folk, and Western traditions, finds its foundational roots in the latter. Emerging in the 19th century, it grappled with pressing issues of nationalism, self-identity, and modernity. The Western influence, particularly through...

Jain Literature, Origin, Types, Swetambar and Digambara Texts

Jain literature, rooted in the ancient Indian philosophy of Jainism, encompasses sacred texts and philosophical treatises. Prominent among these are the "Agamas," comprising canonical scriptures detailing the teachings of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara. These scriptures provide guidance on ethics,...

Sangam Literature, History, Major Works and Significance

Sangam Literature Sangam Literature, also known as "the poetry of the noble ones," refers to the ancient Tamil language and is the earliest known literature from South India. The oldest available Tamil literature is Sangam literature. The Sangam Period is...

Buddhist Literature, Types and Sanskrit Texts

Buddhist literature is a vast body of religious and philosophical texts that form the foundation of Buddhism, one of the major world religions. These texts are essential for understanding the beliefs, practices, and teachings of Buddhism. The literature is written...