Mandirs have long been sanctuaries of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage, showcasing the finest artistic achievements of their time. Through intricate sculptures, vibrant frescoes, and awe-inspiring architecture, these sacred spaces preserve art that transcends generations. One such remarkable example is the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, a modern architectural marvel that recently won the Best Cultural Project award across the UAE and the MENA region at the prestigious MEED Project Awards 2024. This accolade highlights its extraordinary craftsmanship, with over 30,000 hand-carved stone pieces brought together to create a cultural masterpiece.
This report delves into 11 notable incidents or examples where mandirs have played a pivotal role in promoting and preserving art and culture. These examples underscore how mandirs, both historical and contemporary, continue to serve as vibrant hubs of artistic expression and cultural preservation, inspiring communities across the globe.
BAPS Hindu mandir: a cultural masterpiece bridging heritage and innovation
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi stands as a shining testament to the enduring beauty of tradition and modern ingenuity. Recognized as the Best Cultural Project across the UAE and the MENA region at the prestigious MEED Project Awards 2024, this temple is a remarkable fusion of art, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Its design, based on ancient Hindu shilpa shastras, brings together over 30,000 intricately hand-carved stone pieces that tell stories from Bharatiya epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Based on the reports from Curly Tales, the mandir serves as a living repository of ancient artistry while offering a profound spiritual experience to visitors from diverse backgrounds.
What sets the temple apart is its inclusivity and global perspective. Beyond celebrating Bharatiya culture, it incorporates symbols and narratives from other ancient civilizations, including Arabic, Egyptian, Mesopotamian, and Aztec traditions. This integration creates a unique tapestry of interconnected stories, weaving together the wisdom and artistic traditions of different cultures. With over 250 intricate carvings reflecting global heritage, the mandir acts as a beacon of cultural preservation, reminding us that art and spirituality can transcend borders and unite humanity.
Thuravoor brothers and Edakka rituals
Kerala’s rich cultural heritage finds its essence in the rhythmic beats of Edakka, a traditional percussion instrument deeply rooted in the state’s temple rituals. The Thuravoor Brothers, renowned mandir artists from Kochi, have been at the forefront of preserving and promoting this unique art form. Through their collaboration with Kriti Entertainments, an initiative led by temple percussionist Vineesh Kammath, they have infused new life into Kerala’s traditional practices. Kriti Entertainments specializes in organizing events that prominently feature Edakka performances, showcasing the instrument’s spiritual and emotional resonance.
Onmanorama reports suggest that, these performances are more than just musical showcases; they are immersive cultural experiences that evoke a profound sense of devotion and community. By incorporating Edakka rituals into contemporary events, the Thuravoor Brothers and Kriti Entertainments ensure the continuity of this age-old tradition, making it accessible to both locals and global audiences. Their work not only preserves Kerala’s artistic legacy but also reinforces its significance as an integral part of the state’s cultural identity.
Gopi Chevayur’s dedication to cultural heritage
The Kumaranallur Devi mandir in Kottayam, Kerala, stands as a remarkable testament to Bharat’s artistic heritage, adorned with exquisite murals that date back centuries. These murals, created on natural surfaces prepared with a blend of lime, sand, and Cissus repens, are rare examples of traditional Bharatiya artistry. Their intricate designs and vivid colors capture the essence of the region’s cultural and spiritual history, making them invaluable treasures of Bharat’s artistic legacy.
Based on the reports from The New Indian Express, renowned artist Gopi Chevayur has dedicated himself to the painstaking task of reviving these ancient works. With his deep expertise and commitment, he breathes new life into these murals, ensuring their beauty and historical significance endure for future generations. His efforts not only preserve the art form but also serve as a bridge connecting modern audiences with Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Through his work, the Kumaranallur Devi mandir continues to inspire awe and reverence for Bharat’s artistic traditions.
Kaavi art: a unique blend of tradition and craftsmanship
Kaavi art, an intricate form of mural painting, has adorned mandirs, churches, Jain basadis, and folk deity shrines across Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra, becoming a hallmark of the region’s artistic heritage. Based on Deccan Herald, Sri Rama Mandira in Karnataka is one of the many temples where this unique art form thrives, showcasing its timeless appeal. Kaavi art is distinguished by its natural materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The base layer is crafted from finely powdered red laterite soil, while seashell lime provides the striking white overlay. This combination creates a vibrant contrast that defines Kaavi murals.
The preparation process reflects the resourcefulness of traditional artisans, who used natural materials like water, fine river sand, jaggery, powdered seeds, and plant sap as binding agents. These murals not only depict mythological and religious themes but also serve as an enduring symbol of cultural and ecological harmony. By preserving this art form, temples like Sri Rama Mandira continue to celebrate and sustain the region’s rich artistic traditions.
Breaking barriers through Bharatanatyam
Based on Onmanorama reports, the Siva Temple in Ernakulam, Kerala, witnessed a historic moment on 22 July 2024, as seven transgender individuals debuted in the classical dance form Bharatanatyam. Traditionally performed by the devadasi community, Bharatanatyam has long been a medium for devotion and spiritual expression, celebrated for its intricate footwork and emotive gestures that narrate mythological stories.
This performance not only upheld the dance’s deep spiritual roots but also marked a milestone in inclusivity and cultural representation. By taking the stage at the Siva mandir, these performers challenged societal norms and redefined traditional spaces, demonstrating how art can transcend barriers and foster acceptance. Their debut is a testament to Bharatanatyam’s enduring legacy as a universal language of devotion and cultural identity.
Khajuraho dance festival: celebration of classical art
The 50th edition of the Khajuraho Dance Festival (KDF) unfolded in grandeur from 20 to 26 February 2024 at the iconic Kandariya Mahadev mandir and Devi Jagadamba mandir, part of the Western Temple Group complex in Madhya Pradesh. This year’s festival began with a historic moment, as 1,500 to 2,000 artists performed together in a Kathak Kumbh, setting a Guinness World Record. This extraordinary display celebrated Kathak’s intricate rhythms and movements while honoring the festival’s longstanding legacy as a hub for classical art.
The week-long event showcased a rich tapestry of Bharat’s classical dance heritage, including Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and Kuchipudi. Each performance narrated unique stories of devotion, mythology, and culture, blending expressive gestures with intricate movements. Set against the backdrop of the exquisitely carved temples, the festival served as a vibrant reminder of the role temples play in preserving and promoting India’s artistic traditions.
Reviving tradition: Tholpavakoothu illuminates Bhadrakali mandir
The ancient art of Tholpavakoothu, a traditional shadow puppetry form of Kerala, found a vibrant stage in Bhadrakali temples, where it was performed for six consecutive months starting January 2024, as per the reports from The New Indian Express. Known for its intricate leather puppets and captivating storytelling, this art form brings mythological epics like the Ramayana to life, merging spirituality with artistic expression.
In a time when many traditional art forms face extinction, Tholpavakoothu continues to thrive thanks to passionate artists like Vishwanatha Pulavar. He has been pivotal in infusing modern elements into this ancient craft, ensuring its relevance for contemporary audiences while preserving its cultural essence. The performances at Bhadrakali temples stand as a testament to Kerala’s commitment to safeguarding its artistic heritage, blending tradition with innovation.
Mukteshwar mandir: a stage for timeless Odissi performances
Based on The Hindu reports, the Mukteshwar Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, came alive on 14 January 2024 with mesmerizing Odissi performances in its historic courtyard. This 1,100-year-old temple, celebrated for its architectural brilliance, provided a fitting backdrop for a blend of solo, duet, and group renditions by both emerging talents and seasoned artists.
The event highlighted Odissi’s grace and spiritual depth, showcasing the seamless interplay of expressive movements and intricate rhythms. By hosting these performances, the Mukteshwar mandir not only reinforced its cultural significance but also upheld the tradition of temples as living spaces where art, history, and devotion converge.
Thanjavur art gallery: preserving Chola legacy at Brihadeeswara mandir
On 24 October 2021, the Thanjavur Art Gallery, located near the iconic Brihadeeswara mandir, showcased its eclectic collection of historic stone and bronze murthis, primarily from the Chola period (8th-9th century). Brihadeeswara mandir, dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and situated on the southern bank of the Kaveri River, stands as one of the largest and most renowned temples in South of the Bharat, symbolizing the grandeur of Tamil architecture and religious devotion.
Based on the reports from Times of India, the Thanjavur Art Gallery’s collection provides a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of the Chola dynasty, with its meticulously crafted murthis capturing the divine through intricate stone carvings and bronze sculptures. These artifacts not only reflect the exceptional craftsmanship of the time but also serve as a vital link to preserving the cultural and artistic heritage of the region. The gallery, within the mandir’s proximity, helps in upholding the legacy of this ancient civilization, ensuring the continuity of these historical treasures for future generations.
Preserving tradition: Kathakali dance and music fest at Sree Parthasarathy mandir
Based on The Hindu reports, on 28 January 2019, the Sree Parthasarathy Dance and Music Fest took center stage during the annual festival at the Sree Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula, Kerala. Sponsored by the Chilanka Dance and Music Academy, this cultural extravaganza showcased the classical art form of Kathakali, bringing together a vibrant display of dance and music.
The festival was organized by the renowned Kathakali artist Fact Mohan and his wife, Kalamandalam Sreedevi Mohan, both of whom have dedicated their lives to preserving and promoting Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Through their efforts, the fest not only offers an opportunity to experience Kathakali’s dramatic expressions and intricate storytelling but also highlights the importance of mandirs in safeguarding and nurturing traditional art forms.
Kasheli village mandir: a testament to the old Fresco tradition
The temple at Kasheli village in Konkan, Maharashtra, is a remarkable example of the ancient fresco tradition that once flourished along the west coast of Bharat. Dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu, the sanctum of the temple features a unique and historically significant fresco band running along its exterior wall.
Based on Kalemighty reports, approximately 12 cm in height, this band is divided into ten small compartments, each depicting a different form of Vishnu, painted in the medieval art style of Western Bharat. These vibrant frescoes serve as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage, reflecting the artistic mastery of the time and the mandir’s role in preserving traditional art forms for future generations.
Mandir’s in Bharat stand as timeless embodiments of artistic excellence and cultural vitality, playing a central role in fostering and preserving Hindu heritage. From ancient architectural wonders to contemporary spiritual landmarks, these sacred spaces not only showcase the artistic brilliance of their times but also serve as living repositories of tradition, uniting communities through shared rituals, festivals, and cultural expressions. By intertwining art, spirituality, and cultural identity, mandirs continue to inspire generations, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Hindu heritage remains vibrant and relevant in an ever-changing world. This enduring legacy underscores the importance of mandirs as guardians of Bharat’s artistic and cultural heritage, bridging the past, present, and future.
