Introduction
The Samarangana Sutradhara, written by Raja Bhojadeva of Parmara in the 11th century AD, is a comprehensive guide to architecture and construction. It covers a wide range of topics, including town planning, temple construction, and fortification.
The Samarangana Sutradhara is divided into 83 chapters. The first 57 chapters deal with town planning and architecture. The remaining 26 chapters deal with fortification.
The Samarangana Sutradhara is one of the most important texts on architecture and construction in India. It provides detailed instructions on how to design and build various types of structures, such as temples, palaces, forts, and bridges.
Here are some of the key architectural and construction principles that Bhojadeva discusses in the Samarangana Sutradhara:
- Town planning: Bhojadeva emphasizes the importance of careful planning when building new towns and cities. He discusses the various factors that need to be considered when planning a town, such as the location, climate, and resources available. He also provides detailed instructions on how to layout streets, buildings, and other infrastructure.
- Temple construction: Bhojadeva provides detailed instructions on how to design and build various types of temples, such as Hindu temples and Jain temples. He discusses the different architectural styles and features of temples, as well as the religious and symbolic significance of these features.
- Fortification: Bhojadeva provides detailed instructions on how to design and build forts. He discusses the various types of forts, such as hill forts and plain forts, as well as the different features of forts, such as walls, towers, and gates.
The Samarangana Sutradhara had a profound impact on the development of architecture and construction in India. It was used by architects and builders to design and build some of the most iconic structures in India, such as the temples of Khajuraho and the Konark Sun Temple.
The Samarangana Sutradhara is still relevant today. Its ideas on architecture and construction can be used to design and build more sustainable and resilient structures.
Here are some specific examples of how Bhojadeva’s ideas on architecture and construction can be applied in the modern world:
- Town planning: Bhojadeva’s principles of town planning can be used to design more sustainable and livable cities. For example, his emphasis on mixed-use development and walkability can help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.
- Temple construction: Bhojadeva’s ideas on temple construction can be used to design and build more sustainable and culturally sensitive temples. For example, his emphasis on using local materials and traditional construction techniques can help to reduce the environmental impact of temple construction.
- Fortification: Bhojadeva’s ideas on fortification can be used to design and build more resilient structures. For example, his emphasis on using high-quality materials and proper construction techniques can help to protect structures from natural disasters and other hazards.
The Samarangana Sutradhara is a treasure trove of knowledge on architecture and construction. Bhojadeva’s ideas are still relevant today and can be used to design and build more sustainable, resilient, and culturally sensitive structures.
