Describe the developments of the Hindu and Buddhist religion on India and how these religions influenced the architecture and sculpture of India.
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i would like you to please Describe the developments of the Hindu and Buddhist religion on India and how these religions influenced the architecture and sculpture of India.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacred_architecture#Indian_architecture
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_India#Sculpture
http://www.india-buddhisttours.com/buddhism/buddhist-art-and-sculpture-in-india.php
http://www.hinduwisdom.info/Hindu_Art.htm
The developments of Hinduism and Buddhism had a profound influence on the architecture and sculpture of India, shaping it into a unique and distinct style.
Hinduism, being one of the world's oldest religions, played a significant role in the development of Indian architecture and sculpture. Hindu temples became the center of religious, social, and cultural life in ancient India. The temple architecture evolved over the centuries, with each region developing its own distinctive style. The two most common types of Hindu temple architecture are Nagara style and Dravida style.
The Nagara style, also known as the North Indian style, is characterized by its lofty, curvilinear spires or shikharas. These spires rise in a stepped manner and are often adorned with intricate carvings of deities and mythical creatures. The entrance to the temple, called the mandapa, is usually preceded by a large high tower, known as the vimana. The interior of the temple often contains several shrines dedicated to different deities, with elaborate sculptures depicting various mythological stories.
On the other hand, the Dravida style, also known as the South Indian style, is characterized by its pyramidal tower or vimana. These towers are usually adorned with miniature shrines, statues, and intricate carvings. The entrance to the temple is typically flanked by huge gateways or gopurams that are richly decorated with sculptures depicting various deities and mythical creatures. The Dravida style temples often have a long hall with multiple pillared corridors leading to the main shrine.
Buddhism, which was born in ancient India and later spread to other parts of Asia, also influenced the architecture and sculpture of India. Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and rock-cut cave complexes were significant architectural forms that emerged as a result.
Stupas are large, mound-like structures that usually house relics or serve as markers for significant events in the life of Buddha. They are circular in shape and taper towards the top, with a harmika (a square platform) and a finial crowning the structure. Stupas are often adorned with carvings and reliefs depicting events from the life of Buddha, as well as other Buddhist symbols.
Rock-cut cave complexes, such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves, are another prominent form of Buddhist architecture in India. These caves were carved out of solid rock and served as monasteries and prayer halls. The walls of these caves are adorned with exquisite murals and sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Buddha and various other Buddhist deities.
In conclusion, the developments of Hinduism and Buddhism in India greatly influenced the architecture and sculpture of the region. Hindu temples reflect the devotion and mythology of Hinduism, while Buddhist stupas and cave complexes showcase the teachings and narratives of Buddhism. Both religions left a lasting legacy, shaping India's architectural and sculptural heritage into a distinctive fusion of religious and artistic expression.