THE MONUMENTS AND ICONOGRAPHY OF HINDUS, BUDDHISTS, AND JAINS IN INDIA

Starting from 2nd Century BC, the iconography and architecture of the early rock-cut sanctuaries in India incorporated the underlying philosophy and socio-religious movements of Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. After the 4th Century AD, further developments led to more intricate and ornate temple architecture. In this presentation, we will view some exquisite temples and temple complexes such as the historic Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya 5th-6th Century AD, the Nataraja Shiva Temple of Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, 10th Century AD, and the Jain Dilwara Temple Complex at Mt. Abu in Rajasthan from the 11th -16th Century AD. Please note that some of these temples have been declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO.