India's temples are among the world's most remarkable architectural achievements and continue to play a central role in religious and cultural life. This course introduces the foundations of Hinduism before exploring the distinctive architectural styles and symbolism of temples across India. Through photographs, videos and discussion, participants will visit famous temple complexes including Madurai, Rameshwaram, Tirupati, the temples of Odisha, modern Birla temples and ISKCON, while also considering the vibrant Hindu temple tradition in Sydney. Suitable for anyone interested in history, architecture, religion and travel.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE RESOURCES

• History of Architecture by Bannister Fletcher
• History of Architecture in India by Christopher Tadgell
• Hindu India by Henri Stierlin
• Hindu Temples in Australia by Dr. A. Kandiah
• The symbolism of Hindu Gods and rituals by A.Parthasarathy

COURSE OUTLINE

Introduction to Hinduism

• The Supreme Trinity – Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu
• Shaivaites and Vaishnavites
• The incarnations of Vishnu  and the smaller Gods
• The Holy scriptures – Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita
• Hindu beliefs and practices – vegetarianism, reincarnation and karma

Social and Cultural influences

• The caste system – the influence of the Kshatriyas (the royals) and the Brahmins (the priests)
• The role of women

Hindu Religious Festivals

• The major festivals in North and South India
• The role of temples during the festivals

Temple Architecture

• The distinctive styles of the temples of North India and South India
• The basic temple plan
• The main elements in a temple design – the sanctum sanctorum, the pond, the gopuras.
• Eroticism in sculpture - Khajuraho

Famous examples of temples in India

• Varanasi 
• The Orissa group
• Belur / Halebid
• Rameshwaram
• Madurai
• Tirupathi
• Birla Mandirs
•  Hare Rama Hare Krishna temple, Bangalore

Sydney Temples

• Helensberg
• Westmead
• Hare Rama Hare Krishna Mandir – North Sydney
• Auburn Krishna Mandir
• Minto Shiva temple

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Describe the basic concepts of the Hindu religion and culture
• Identify the different styles and elements in Temple Architecture
• Recognise the major temples in India and Sydney