Author: R Champakalakshmi
Photographer: Usha Kris
Publisher: Roli Books
Year: 2001
Language: English
Pages: 112
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8174360948
Description
Authoritatively written and impressively illustrated with exceptional and rare photographs, this book brings into special prominence the relevance of the temple in the social, economic and political integration of the subcontinent.
The Hindu Temple is a comprehensive expose on the evolution of a simple and sacred place of worship to a monument which over the centuries became the pivot of Indian religiosity, culture and aesthetic significance; the super ordinate ideological focus of society and policy. Tracing its origin to the pre-Christian ear, its sanctity, and the unwavering reverence accorded to it even today, is manifested in the elaborate rituals performed within its precincts by devotees, and the festivals celebrated by them.
The book brings into special prominence the relevance of the temple in the social, economic and political integration of the subcontinent. Authoritatively written and impressively illustrated with exceptional and rare photographs, it elucidates in minute and graphic detail the multifaceted sculptural and architectural wonder that is the Hindu temple.
Contents
The Temple : A Symbol of Indian Culture
The Temple : Its Cosmological and Metaphysical Origins
Architectural Styles and Traditions : A Historical Perspective
Idea and Image : The Iconography of The Hindu Temple
Puja, Utsava and Tirtha : Ritual Worship, Festivals and Pilgrimage
Glossary
Further Reading