Journey Through the Ages: Hindu Temple Architecture in India

Dakshin Chitra: A Living Portrait of South Indian Heritage Nestled along Chennai’s East Coast Road in Muttu Kadu, Dakshin Chitra —meaning “a picture of the South”—is a vibrant living museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the diverse cultural traditions of South India. More than a museum, it’s an immersive experience into the soul of southern heritage, encompassing art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts, and performing arts. Inaugurated on December 14, 1996, Dakshin Chitra is the flagship project of the Madras Craft Foundation (MCF) , founded by American-Indian art historian Dr. Deborah Thiagarajan . The vision was to spotlight the often-overlooked richness of South Indian traditions. With architectural expertise from Laurie Baker and Benny Kuriakose , this 10-acre site was transformed into a thriving cultural destination. A Living Museum Experience Unlike conventional museums, Dakshin Chitra offers an interactive, open-air environment . Visitors explore reconstructed her...

  Architecture is not just about creating styles. What is architecture? There are many answers to this question. I would like to put it this way:  “Architecture is a way of expressing oneself freely while interacting with natural elements like the sun, wind, water, trees, and plants, and on the whole with Mother Earth altogether in a space.” This definition would question the usual understanding of the common man, who perceives architecture only through its front facade or front elevation. If just the front facade is designed well, then it is good architecture; if not, it is just mediocre or average. Through this article, I want to clarify that architecture is not only the front facade or front elevation; it is much beyond that. In this post-Covid era, much of our work happens online, including our office/business and other work that is done from home; therefore, the design of our homes plays an important role in shaping our personalities and is a means of connecting to the su...

Unearthing Ancient Wonders: Welcome to Mahabalipuram Nestled along the sun-drenched Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, where the Bay of Bengal whispers tales of antiquity, lies Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)—a UNESCO World Heritage site unlike any other. More than just a collection of historical monuments, this ancient port town is a vibrant tapestry woven from the genius of the Pallava dynasty, natural marvels, and a living cultural heritage that continues to captivate. Prepare to embark on a journey where monumental rock-cut caves, awe-inspiring monolithic shrines, intricate structural temples, and a gravity-defying boulder stand as silent witnesses to centuries of artistic innovation and profound devotion, promising an unparalleled experience for the discerning traveler, the curious historian, and the aspiring architectural journalist alike. Welcome to Mahabalipuram: Where Ancient Stones Whisper Tales of Kings and Gods Imagine standing on a sun-drenched coastline, the scent of the sea ai...