K. IF ALL OF THE WORLD´S CULTURAL HERITAGE (SPORTS, MUSIC, FASHION, ARCHITECTURE,

LITERATURE, PAINTING, ETC..) WAS CONTAINED IN A TIME CAPSULE, WHAT WOULD YOU INCLUDE TO

DEMONSTRATE THE LEGACY OF YOUR COUNTRY?

BY: PRIYANKA SHARMA MIM APPLICANT FEBRUARY 2017

India is an immense landmass in South Asia, consisting of many states and union territories, each having language, customs, traditions, culture and dialects different from the other. Every aspect of the country presents itself on a massive, exaggerated scale.

Four of the world's major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism—originated here.

India is an known for its colorful people, Meditation and Spiritual practices, Culture, Fair and Festivals, Forts, Palaces, Art & Architecture, Temples. The illustration depicts, unity in

diversity. In India, people of various communities, religions and race co-exist harmoniously

“ARCHITECTURE SHOULD SPEAK FOR ITS TIME AND PLACE, BUT YEARN FOR

ITS TIMELINESS”

One definition of a great civilization is the magnificence of its architectural legacy, and Indian architecture is as old as the history of the civilization, representing more than its fair share of culture and art.

With a past stretching back to 2500 B.C., there are innumerable examples. The early Mughals could only bring a modest and rather restrained version of the Central Asian style to India. The architectural marvels display an assortment of Islamic, Turkish, Greek and British sensibilities combined with ancient Hindu aesthetics and mythology, standing tall as the guardian pillars of India’s cultural heritage.

Each of these represented a different era and a mishmash of world art. Evident from the master craftsmanship and elegance, it brings to the forefront the splendor of the bygone era and a glorious past. The monuments of India have become an inspiration for the future generations.

EARLY ARCHITECTURE

The gateways of the Sanchi Stupa are adorned with beautiful sculptures, depicting scenes from Jataka stories (stories telling about the previous lives of the Buddha, in both human and animal form) are specimens of the skill and aesthetic sense of the artisans.

The Great Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh, is the oldest stone structure in India, made of bricks.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE :AJANTA AND ELLORA CAVES, MAHARASHTRA

One of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple caves complexes in the world that present monument and artwork of Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism.

A fine source of sculpture and paintings, depicting significant socio-economic information in ancient India through gestures, forms and poses.

A lot of foreign influence, like that of Persia has been been portrayed in the paintings, reflecting the trade route of merchant and traders from prehistoric India; rebirth of Buddha; celebration of physical beauty, aspects that early Western observers felt were scandalous for a sacrosanct place

MUGHAL FORTS AND PALACES

The Taj Mahal, Agra Red Fort, Delhi

Charminar, Hyderabad Qutub Minar, Delhi

Amber Fort, Jaipur

TEMPLES: AN EXPRESSION OF VALUE

The Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh (top): is dedicated to two religions: Hinduism and Jainism, suggesting a tradition of diversity and acceptance. It is famous for the erotic arts, showing deities performing sexual acts. This is indicative of India’s broader perspective on taboo subjects like nudity and represented an expression of many forms of arts that flourished in the Rajput kingdoms of India

Temples like the Meenakshi temple in South India (middle) and Sun Temple in the West (bottom) became centers of learning and development and formed an inherent part of the community life. The vibrant décor of temples down South, was indicative of the way each being is welcomed at God’s altar. A similar practice was followed at house, with entrances and courtyards decorated with Rangoli.

Jaivilas Palace, Gwalior Umaid Bhavan Palace, Jodhpur

Devigarh Fort, Rajasthan City Palace, Udaipur

The enlisted palaces and forts are a testament to the princely states and regional kingdoms of India, reflecting affluence, grandeur. These have been the abode of priceless, exquisite pieces of art, jewelry, handloom etc. Foreign dignitaries are invited by the Royal families to familiarize them with the erstwhile India, up close and personal.

THE ROYAL FABLES

A distinctive feature of the forts and palaces was the fanciful use of color, mirror-work, mother-of-pearl, glass inlay and ancient art forms like Thanjuvar , Warli, Madhubani and Minakari that tried to convey what was behind doors and walls in an easily understandable manner.

Thanjuvar PaintingSemi- precious and rare stones used in the main halls of palaces

Glass inlay work on a palace wall Warli Art Form

THE LEGACY CONTINUES WITH LUXURY HOTELS…

Many palaces have tied up with Indigenous hospitality partners to (partly) convert palaces into luxurious heritage hotel properties, so as to maintain the traditions and the rich legacy.Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad (top), gives tourists a true experience of the Nizami culture. The massive dining room (middle) blends the aristocratic nuances with the Nizami living.The rooftop (bottom) offers a bird’s eye view of the bustling city of Hyderabad. This one is definitely worth a visit before you die!

Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur (A property of the Royal family of Jaipur)

ITC Grand Bharat, Delhi NCR

Hotel Jag Mandir, Udaipur, believed to be an inspiration for the Taj Mahal, Agra

The Iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

These hotels have taken inspiration from the past, amalgamating perfectly with the modern tastes of the city and its people. International travel portals and magazines have listed some of these properties amongst the best hotels in the world, with each offering a break from the monotony of the metropolitans of the world .

THANK YOU