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Questions and Answers
Which rivers are mentioned as geographical influences in Indian architecture?
Which rivers are mentioned as geographical influences in Indian architecture?
What is the main religion of India?
What is the main religion of India?
What are Sikharas in Hindu temples?
What are Sikharas in Hindu temples?
Peaks of the tower rising from the core
The climate in Northern India is described as wet in winter and dry in summer.
The climate in Northern India is described as wet in winter and dry in summer.
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Who is known for achieving enlightenment through meditation?
Who is known for achieving enlightenment through meditation?
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What are the chief gods in Hinduism?
What are the chief gods in Hinduism?
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The caste system divides people based on their political status.
The caste system divides people based on their political status.
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The _____________ is a shrine that represents the sacred Mount Meru.
The _____________ is a shrine that represents the sacred Mount Meru.
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Which architectural style involves carving from solid natural rock?
Which architectural style involves carving from solid natural rock?
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Match the following terms related to Indian architecture:
Match the following terms related to Indian architecture:
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Study Notes
Indian Architecture Influences
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Geographical Influences:
- Pakistan to the northwest, Nepal, China, and Bhutan to the north, Myanmar (Burma) to the east.
- Major rivers: Indus and Ganges.
- Mountain ranges: Himalayas and Mount Everest.
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Geological Influences:
- Timber abundant in Indus and Ganges valleys.
- Notable use of white marble in construction.
- Prominence of rock-cut temples, a unique architectural feature.
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Climatic Influences:
- Varied climate; wet winters and dry summers.
- Distinct architectural adaptations: flat roofs in the north and steep roofs in the west.
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Religious Influences:
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Hinduism:
- Main religion with roots in indigenous Dravidians and Aryan invaders.
- Ancients faith: belief in karma, dharma, and reincarnation.
- Chief deities include Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
- Social structure defined by a caste system comprising priests (Brahmins), warriors (Kshatriyas), traders (Vaishyas), laborers (Shudras), and Dalits (untouchables).
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Buddhism:
- Emerged as a response to caste divisions.
- Founded by Gautama Siddhartha (563 – 483 BC), who attained enlightenment through meditation.
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Hinduism:
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Social Influences:
- Caste system as a lasting form of social stratification based on individuals’ work (karma) and duty (dharma).
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Historical Influences:
- The Indus Valley Civilization (2500 BC) was the third major civilization in a fertile river valley, with significant cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.
- Ruled by priest-kings and later saw the arrival of Aryans, who established 16 kingdoms, leading to the rise of the Mauryan Empire under King Ashoka around 300 BC.
Architectural Character
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Character: Primarily shaped by religious beliefs.
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Architectural Elements:
- Sikharas: High peaks of towers in Hindu temples.
- Stupas: Shrines symbolizing the sacred Mount Meru featuring four ceremonial gates.
- Symbolic Layers: Distinctive towers in Hindu architecture showcasing unique styles.
- Animal Statuary: Intricate sculptures and carvings of animals.
- Figurative Decorations: Elaborate carvings of sacred images and human figures.
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Buildings and Structures:
- Rock-cut Architecture: Carving from solid rock, notable for its spiritual significance and achievements.
- Cave Architecture: Utilized by Buddhist and Jain monks as places of worship and residence, adorned with paintings and sculptures.
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Description
Explore the diverse influences on Indian architecture, including geographical, geological, climatic, and religious factors. Discover how the natural environment and spiritual beliefs shaped the unique architectural styles and techniques found across India. This quiz will challenge your knowledge about these vital influences.
