Indian Architectural Heritage
Uploaded by
Aman Kumar SinghIndian Architectural Heritage
Uploaded by
Aman Kumar SinghArt and Architectural Heritage of India
Dr. Aman
asingh@aud.ac.in
Conservation,
School of Heritage Research & Management,
New Delhi 110076, India
Outline
Outline
1 Artistic & Architectural Heritage of India
2 Introduction
3 Conclusions
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 1 / 15
Introduction
Indian art and architecture reflect the rich cultural, religious, and historical heritage of
the subcontinent. Spanning millennia, they embody the synthesis of diverse influences,
including indigenous traditions, foreign cultures, and evolving societal needs. From the
intricate rock paintings of Bhimbetka to the urban sophistication of the Indus Valley Civi-
lization, early Indian art showcased a strong connection to nature and spirituality.
The ancient period saw the emergence of monumental structures like the Sanchi Stupa
and the Ashokan Pillars, marking the spread of Buddhism and Mauryan artistry. Over
time, distinct architectural styles flourished, such as the Nagara and Dravidian temple
styles, epitomized by the Sun Temple at Konark and the Brihadeeswarar Temple.
Islamic influences during the medieval period introduced domes, arches, and minarets,
culminating in masterpieces like the Taj Mahal. Colonial and modern eras added new
dimensions, blending traditional forms with global aesthetics. Whether through temples,
mosques, palaces, or folk traditions, Indian art and architecture stand as a testament to
its enduring creativity and spiritual depth.
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 2 / 15
Introduction
Components
1 Overview of Indian art and architecture
2 Historical and cultural influences: religion, politics, and trade
3 Geographical diversity
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 3 / 15
Introduction
Prehistoric and Protohistoric Art
1 Rock shelters: cave paintings, Bhimbetka, Miraza Pur, Kashmir, Guntur
2 Indus Valley Civilization
3 Urban planning (Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 4 / 15
Introduction
Ancient Period
1 Seals, pottery, and sculptures
2 Mauryan Art (322–185 BCE
3 Ashokan Pillars: polished sandstone, inscriptions
4 Stupas: Sanchi Stupa
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 5 / 15
Introduction
Post-Mauryan Period (2nd Century BCE–3rd
Century CE
1 Gandhara School: Greco-Buddhist art
2 Mathura School: indigenous styles, emphasis on spiritual themes
3 Amaravati School: narrative art
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 6 / 15
Introduction
Classical Period
1 Gupta Art and Architecture (4th–6th Century CE):
2 Temples: Nagara and Dravidian styles begin to develop
3 Iconography: refinement of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain sculptures
Figure: Parvati Temple
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Introduction
Medieval Period
1 Hindu Temple Architecture
2 Nagara style (North India)
3 Khajuraho, Sun Temple at Konark
4 Dravidian style (South India)
5 Brihadeeswarar Temple, Meenakshi Temple
6 Vesara style Chalukyas, Hoysalas
7 (e.g., Halebidu, Belur temples)
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 8 / 15
Introduction
Islamic Architecture
1 Delhi Sultanate
2 Qutub Minar, Alai Darwaza
3 Mughal Architecture
4 Blend of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian elements Taj Mahal, Humayun’s
Tomb, Fatehpur Sikri
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 9 / 15
Introduction
Colonial Period
1 Portuguese, Dutch, French influences
2 British architecture Indo-Saracenic style Victoria Memorial, Gateway of India
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 10 / 15
Introduction
Religious and Philosophical Themes
1 Buddhist art: Ajanta and Ellora caves
2 Hindu art: depictions of gods, epics (Mahabharata, Ramayana)
3 Jain art: Dilwara temples
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Introduction
Ajanta
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 12 / 15
Introduction
Ajanta Filleting
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 13 / 15
Introduction
Ajanta
Dr. A. K. Singh (SHRM) Evolution of Indian Art & Architecture 14 / 15
Conclusions
Conclusions
1 Continuity and change in Indian art and architecture This outline
offers a very basic framework for exploring Indian art and
architecture across different periods and styles.