art and culture

Medieval Period Architecture, Delhi Sultanate, Mughal and Regional

The Arab conquest of Sind in 712 A.D. initiated a sequence of events that ultimately led to the ascension of Islamic rulers in Delhi during the 11th century. Subsequently, the architectural landscape in Medieval India underwent a profound transformation. To...

Sculptures in India, Types, Features, Ancient to Modern Age

India boasts a diverse sculpture tradition, spanning millennia. From the ancient terracotta figurines of the Indus Valley Civilization to the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka from the Maurya period, and the intricate carvings of the Chola temples, Indian sculpture reflects...

Indo-Islamic Architecture, Characteristics and Provincial Influence

Indo-Islamic architecture refers to the architectural styles that emerged in the Indian subcontinent as a result of the fusion of Indian and Islamic influences. This style developed over several centuries, starting with the arrival of Islam in the Indian subcontinent...

Temple Architecture in India, Nagara, Dravida and Vesara Style

Temple Architecture in India spans diverse styles over millennia. In the Nagara style (200 BCE–800 CE), temples feature beehive-shaped towers. Dravida style (600–1500 CE) in the south is marked by pyramidal towers and intricate carvings. The Vesara style (700–1200 CE)...

Difference between Dravida, Nagara, and Vesara Style

Dravida, Nagara, and Vesara are distinct architectural styles in Hindu temple design. Dravida, prevalent in southern India, features pyramidal towers with multiple storeys. Nagara, found in the north, showcases curvilinear towers with pointed apices and multiple entrances. Vesara is a...

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...

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...