DIVINE DESIGN: HOW GEOMETRY AND MATHEMATICS SHAPED INDIA’S TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE
Abstract
The architectural marvels of Indian temples, particularly from the classical period, exhibit a remarkable integration of mathematics and geometry. This article explores the significance of these mathematical and geometric principles in the formation and design of temples in India during its golden era of evolution. It examines the role of sacred geometry, proportions, symmetry, and astronomical alignments in the construction of iconic temples such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple, Kandariya Mahadev Temple, and Sun Temple at Konark. The application of Vastu Shastra and the use of advanced mathematical calculations to ensure cosmic harmony in temple layouts are also discussed. The study underscores how these temples not only served as places of worship but also embodied divine principles through their geometrically precise structures, reflecting both spiritual and scientific knowledge of the time. Through this analysis, the article demonstrates how Indian temple architecture stands as a testament to the fusion of art, science, and spirituality during the golden era.
Keywords
Mathematics, Geometry, Temple Architecture, IndiaHow to Cite
Downloads
References
1. Agarwal, R. (2017). Vastu Shastra: The Indian Science of Architecture. Rupa Publications.
2. Kochhar, R. (2016). Mathematics in Ancient India. Wiley.
3. Srinivasan, S. (1997). Temples of South India: Architecture and Sculpture. Marg Publications.
4. Lal, B. (2001). The Sun Temple at Konark: A Study in Astronomical Symbolism. Aryan Books International.
5. Nair, C. P. (2015). The Sacred Geometry of Hindu Temples. DK Printworld.
6. Mitchell, P. (2014). Sacred Architecture of India: From the Temples of the Vedic Age to the Modern Era. Oxford University Press.
7. Balasubramanian, R. (2011). "Mathematics and Geometry in the Temples of India." Indian Journal of History of Science, 46(4), 457-472.
8. Gupta, S. (2019). "Vastu Shastra and Its Influence on Temple Architecture in Ancient India." The Indian Architect, 36(2), 98-115.
9. Kumar, P. (2009). "Astronomical Alignments in Indian Temples: A Study of the Sun Temple at Konark." Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage, 12(3), 251-262.
10. Desai, S. (2015). "Sacred Geometry in Hindu Temple Architecture: A Cross-Regional Perspective." International Journal of Architecture and Engineering, 10(3), 150-164.
11. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). http://asi.nic.in
12. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. https://www.iitk.ac.in
13. Sacred India Portal – Geometry and Vastu in Temples. http://www.sacredindia.org
14. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan – Architecture of Temples in India. https://www.bvbhavan.org
15. Vishwanath, R. (2012). "The Role of Geometry in Ancient Indian Temple Architecture." Ph.D. dissertation, University of Madras.
16. Rao, M. (2018). "Mathematical Foundations of Temple Architecture in South India." Master’s Thesis, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore.
