beginning of Buddhist and Jain Architecture

Emerging in the 6th century BCE during India’s later Iron Age, Jainism and Buddhism arose as powerful reformist movements challenging Vedic ritualism and social divisions. Founded by Mahavira and the Buddha, they emphasized nonviolence, ethical conduct, and renunciation. Both religions advocated paths to spiritual liberation—Jaina through strict asceticism; Buddhist through the Middle Path, Four Noble Truths, and Eightfold Path. These faiths rejected animal sacrifice and caste barriers, promoted monastic communities, and inspired new literary traditions in Prakrit and Pali. Jainism largely remained within India, while Buddhism spread widely in Asia. Enduringly, both contributed to India’s rich religious, philosophical, and cultural heritage, anchoring principles of compassion, simplicity, and reasoned inquiry.

1. UNIT-4
Beginning of Buddhist
and Jain Architecture
in India

2. INDEX
•BeginningofBuddhistandJainArchitectureinIndia
•Philosophyandteachings;theHinayanaandMahayanaSectsandtheir
contributiontothedevelopmentofarchitectureinIndia.
•AshokanSchool
•BuddhistRockCutArchitecture:TheChaityasandViharasatAjantaand
Ellora;
•theStupa:FormandEvolution;
•BuddhistArchitectureinGandhara

3. Buddhist
Architecture in India
India holds some of the most important Buddhist architectural structures
in the world, showcasing the unique style of the religion.

4. Characteristics of Buddhist
Architecture
1Simplicity
Buddhist architecture often
embodies a minimalistic style
focusing on essential elements
like columns and beams.
2Symmetry
The structures feature symmetry
in the design, emphasizing
balance and harmony in the
layout.
3Stupas
Stupas are a fundamental
element of the Buddhist
architecture style, representing
the Buddha's journey towards
enlightenment.
4Intricate Artwork
Buddhism-inspired artwork and
carvings are often present within
the architecture, showcasing its
rich cultural heritage.

5. Evolution of Buddhist Architecture in India
1
Early Buddhism
The first Buddhist architecture styles emerged in the 3rd
century BC in India –crafting cave shrines and rock-cut
architecture.
2
Stupa Developement
Over time, the building of stupas, crown-canopies,
harmikas, and toranas increased.
3
Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism
The Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism period saw the
emergence of several sects and an increase in
construction of monasteries and universities.

6. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance of
Buddhist Architecture
Color
The use of different colors for the
murals and artwork in the
architecture holds a symbolic
spiritual representation.
Layout of Buildings
The layout of buildings symbolizes
the Buddha's journey towards
enlightenment and follows strict
guidelines laid forth in the sacred
texts.
Spiritual Environment
Buddhist architecture exudes a
spiritual atmosphere that makes
followers feel close to the presence
of the Buddha and spiritually uplifts
them.

7. Famous Examples of Buddhist Architecture in
India
Sanchi Stupa
The Sanchi Stupa reflects the rich and
ancient Buddhist architectural form and is
one of the most significant Buddhist
monuments in India.
Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves showcase beautiful
architecture and frescoes that spread over
30 rock-cut caves and monasteries.
Ellora Caves
The temples of Ellora encompass several
religions and cultures, including Buddhism.
The grand wall cave temples are stunning
examples of Buddhist architecture that
have been maintained for centuries.

8. Impact of Buddhist Architecture on Indian
Culture
The impact of Buddhist architecture is prominent in Indian culture, with temples and monuments inspiring artists and designers
even today. The integration of Buddhism into Indian building styles has facilitated the preservation and proliferation of Buddhist
heritage and culture.

9. The Evolution of Jain
Architecture in India
Jainism is an ancient religion with deep roots in India. Its influence can be seen
in the magnificent and elaborate architecture of Jain temples. Let's explore the
evolution of Jain architecture and its significance in Indian history and culture.

10. Early Jain Architecture
1Rock-Cut Temples
Some of the earliest Jain
temples were hewn out of
rock faces, like the ones in
Udayagiri and Khandagiri.
2Simple Structural
Temples
These were built with basic
materials like stone and brick,
such as the Jain temple at
Sonagiri.
3Pillar Temples
These temples had a single pillar in the center, like the one at
Mullayanagiri.

11. Influence of Buddhism on Jain Architecture
Buddhist Stupa Influence
The dome-shaped roof of Buddhist stupas were adapted in Jain
architecture in the form of a shikara, or tower.
Lotus Motif
The lotus symbol, which is important in Buddhist beliefs, was also
incorporated into Jain temple design.

12. Jain Temple Characteristics and
Symbolism
1Mandala Layout
The temple layout is based on
the mandala, which represents
the universe and the path to
enlightenment.
2Tirthankara Statues
Every Jain temple is adorned
with statues of Tirthankaras,
the 24 spiritual leaders of the
Jain religion.
3Symbolism in Architecture
The intricate carvings and designs on the walls and pillars of Jain temples
symbolize important aspects of Jain beliefs and values.

13. Development of Jain Temple Styles over Time
1
Nagara Style
A style of Jain temple architecture
characterized by a curvilinear tower
and intricate carvings on the walls, like
the Dilwara Temples.
2
Dravida Style
A style of temple architecture mainly
found in South India, with a pyramid-
shaped roof and detailed carvings, like
the Kollur Mookambika Temple.
3
Hemadpanti Style
A style of temple architecture known
for its use of black basalt stone and
geometric designs, seen in the Jain
temple at Kumbhoj.

14. Notable Examples of Jain Architecture in India
Dilwara Temples, Rajasthan
Known for their intricate marble carvings
and beautiful architecture.
Palitana Temple Complex, Gujarat
A collection of 900 temples on a hilltop,
considered the most sacred pilgrimage site
for Jains.
Kumbhoj Jain Temple, Maharashtra
Known for its unique Hemadpanti style of
architecture.

15. Conclusion and Significance of Jain Architecture in
Indian History and Culture
Preservation of Jainism
Jain temples have served as a symbol
of Jainism and its beliefs throughout
history.
Artistic Legacy
The elaborate and intricate carvings of
Jain architecture represent an important
contribution to the artistic heritage of
India.
Religious Tolerance
The building and existence of Jain
temples represents the openness and
tolerance of Indian society.

16. Buddhist Philosophy
and Indian
Architecture
Explore the influence of Hinayana and Mahayana teachings on Indian
architecture.

17. Introduction to Indian
Architecture
1Ancient Roots ??????
Indian architecture dates
back to the Indus Valley
Civilization over 5000 years
ago.
2Regional Diversity ??????️
From the Himalayan
regions in the north to the
tropical south, India boasts
a range of architectural
styles.
3Spiritual Significance ??????
Architecture in India has always had a strong connection to
religion, with temples, stupas, and other structures playing a vital
role in the cultural and spiritual life of the country.

18. Overview of the Hinayana and Mahayana Sects
Hinayana Sect
The Hinayana school, also known as the "lesser vehicle,"
emphasizes the individual's pursuit of enlightenment through
meditation and self-reflection.
Mahayana Sect
By contrast, the Mahayana school, or "greater vehicle,"
stresses the importance of compassion and uses a range of
effective means to help all beings attain enlightenment.

19. Hinayana Teachings and
Its Impact on Indian
Architecture
1Simplicity and
Practicality ??????️
The Hinayana sect's
emphasis on simplicity and
practicality gave rise to
modest, unadorned
structures like the chaitya
hall and vihara, which were
made primarily from stone
and wood.
2Emphasis on Inner
Illumination ??????
Hinayana teachings helped
shape the symbolic and
allegorical elements of
Indian architecture.
Structures like stupas and
mandalas were used to aid
in the meditative process.

24. Mahayana Teachings and Its Impact on Indian
Architecture
Universal Compassion ??????
The Mahayana school's emphasis on compassion and empathy
helped to inspire the construction of grand, ornate structures like
the Mahabodhi Temple and Ajanta Caves.
Spiritual Expression ??????
The Mahayana sect's focus on creativity and artistry is reflected
in the intricate carvings and exquisite paintings found in many
Buddhist structures.

27. Comparison of Architectural Styles Between
Hinayana and Mahayana
Hinayana Mahayana
Simple, unadorned structures Grand, ornate structures
Focus on symbolism and allegory Emphasis on creativity and spirituality
Chaitya halls and viharas Monasteries and stupas

28. Contemporary Indian Architecture Influenced
by Buddhist Philosophy
Global Reach ??????
Buddhist architecture has had a
global influence, inspiring
structures like the famous Lotus
Temple in Delhi, India, as well as
Buddhist temples in China, Japan,
and beyond.
Innovative Design ??????
Modern architects have adapted
traditional Buddhist design
principles to create innovative
structures like the Buddhist
Learning Center in Korea,
highlighting the ongoing relevance
of these teachings.
Sustainable Solutions ??????
The Buddhist concept of
compassion and mindful living has
influenced the design of
environmentally-friendly structures
like the Druk White Lotus School in
India.

29. Conclusion
1 Rich Heritage ??????
The teachings of the Hinayana and Mahayana sects have played a vital role in the evolution of Indian architecture,
leaving behind a rich and beautiful legacy.
2 Continued Inspiration ??????
The enduring influence of Buddhist philosophy on architecture is reflected in the innovative and sustainable
structures being built today, providing hope for a more harmonious future.
3 Limitless Creativity ??????
As architecture continues to evolve, the teachings of Hinayana and Mahayana provide a powerful source of
inspiration for designers and architects around the world.

30. DEVELOPMENT OF BUDDHIST ARCHITECTURE
Establishment:EmperorAshoka
Period:3rdcenturyBC
Place:SouthAsia
EmperorAshokainauguratedBuddhismasthestatereligionofhisempire.
TheprimitiveBuddhismrejectedanyformofimageworshipandhenceBuddhistArchitecturebegan
withtheestablishmentofvarioussymbolsrepresentingdifferentaspectsofBuddha’slife,namelyStupas,
Bodhitreeindicatingenlightenment,WheelofLaw,asthefirstsermonaswellasthecorporealvehicleof
Buddha,andhisfootprints.
InIndia,earlyBuddhistartisaccreditedtobeaproductoftheAshokanSchool.
Significanceofthis‘school’liesinthefactthatIndiathencethroughBuddhismwasinapositionto
dictatetotherestofAsia,itsreligion,itssymbolismanditsart.

31. CONTRIBUTIONS BY ASHOKAN SCHOOL
Theprincipalcontributionsmadebythisschooltotheartandarchitectureofthat
periodare:
Seriesofedicts(inscribedonrocks)
Numberofstupas
Certainmonolithicpillars
Severalmonolithicaccessoriestoshrines
Remainsofavastpalace,&
Groupofrock-cutchambers.

32. Ajanta and Ellora Caves
Introduction
Ajanta and Ellora caves exemplify
India's rich heritage and
architectural prowess, especially in
the world of Buddhism.
Structure
The caves comprise rock-cut
monasteries and shrines with
intricate carvings and paintings
that portray the events related to
the life of Buddha.
Religious Significance
These UNESCO World Heritage
Sites are seen as a symbol of
spreading peace, compassion, and
humanism in the world.
Symbolism
The intricate sculptures, paintings, pillars, and carvings reflect a perfect balance of technical excellence, artistic skill,and
religious fervor.

33. Major features ofBuddhistArchitecture
Chaitya
The Chaitya halls comprise a
nave, apse, and aisle,
resembling a basilica. The
façade is adorned with a
horseshoe-shaped arch and
two story-tall pillars.
Viharas
The Viharas include residential
buildings and monasteries cut
into rock. The cells are small
and dark but the Viharas
feature lovely, open-air
courtyards that were used by
monks for walking and
meditation.
Buddhist deities
The Chaityas and Viharas
contain numerous sculptures
and paintings of Buddha,
Bodhisattvas, and other
Buddhist deities.
Mahayana influence
The Mahayana influence on the
Viharas is evident in depictions
of myriad supernatural beings
and scenes from everyday life.

34. CHAITYAS (CAVES)
Thenextsignificantdevelopmentwastherock-cutarchitecture.
Itsearliestandmostimp.MarvelwastheLomasRishiCave,atBarabarhills,Bihar.
Derivedfromtimberhutsandwoodenarch.ofVedictimes.
Theywererectangularhalls,withfinelypolishedinteriorwalls.Therewereanumberofwell
proportionedpillars,generallyaround35,andasemi-circularroof.Oppositeoneentrancestoodastupa.
Allthepillarshavecapitalsonthem,withcarvingsofakneelingelephantmountedonbell-shapedbases.

35. •Architecturally,chaityasshowsimilaritiestoRomanDesign
conceptsofcolumnsandarch.
•Themonksbuiltmanystructureswhichwerecarvedoutofa
singlemassiverock,donewithhammerandchisel,barehands.
•Thechaityaswerealmost40meterslong,15meterswideand15
metershigh.

36. VIHAARAS (MONASTRIES)
TheyweretheresidentialplacesoftheBuddhistpriest.
Themainhallwasenteredthroughadoorway,leadingtoanassemblyhall,diningchambersand
meditationcells.
Thewallsdepictfiguresofthebuddha
Thecolumnswereof60metersheightandwell-chiseled.

37. Stupa: Form and Evolution
1 Earlystupas
Theearlystupaswerebell-shapedstructuresofbrickwithasimplehemispherical
dome,liketheoneatDhamekStupainSarnath.
2 Evolutionofstupas
Withtime,theshapeofstupasevolvedintoathree-tieredstructure,symbolizing
Buddha,histeachings,andhisfollowers.Later,elaboratedecorativegatewaysand
exquisitecarvingswereadded,makingthemmoregrandandimpressive.
3 SanchiStupa
SanchiStupa,commissionedbyAshoka,isthemostfamousstupaoftheancientworld.
Itissurroundedbyfourornatecarvedgatewaysknownastoranas.

39. STUPAS (DOMES)
DEFINITION: Dome-shaped structures used to house sacred relics of the monks and hence also
known as “Relic-shrines”.
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS: Earth materials covered with stones or bricks. The plan, elevation and
the basic structure all derived from the circle.

45. Buddhist Architecture in
Gandhara
1Origins of Gandhara
School
The Gandhara School of Art
originated during the rule of the
Kushans, when Central Asia and
northwest India were under a
single rule.
2Influence of Greek art
The Gandhara School displayed a
unique fusion of Indian and
Hellenistic styles, with influences
from Persian and Central Asian art
and architecture.
3Distinctive features
Gandhara architecture features monasteries, stupas, and statues built with white
marble and decorated with intricate carvings and crystal inlays. They focused on
realism and depicted Buddha in a more human-like form.

46. Comparison with Other Styles
Ajanta and Ellora Caves Gandhara
Buddha depiction Follows an idealized and stylized formFocused on realism and human-like
depiction
Material Ancient rock-cut monasteries and
shrines
White marble used in monasteries,
stupas, and statues
Symbolism Depiction of events from the life of
Buddha
Realistic depiction of Buddha and
his followers
Major Influences Indian art and architecture Hellenistic, Persian, Central Asian art
and architecture

47. Buddhist Architecture in
Gandhara

48. Introduction to Gandhara
1The Region
Gandhara was an ancient
region that encompassed parts
of modern-day Pakistan and
Afghanistan.
2The People
The people of Gandhara were
known for their creativity and
love for art and architecture.
3The Time Period
During the first centuries BCE and CE, Gandhara was an important hub
for trade and pilgrimage, attracting travelers from across the world.

49. Buddhist Architecture in Gandhara
Buddhist Stupas
Gandharan Buddhist stupas were built to
enshrine sacred relics and promote spiritual
contemplation. Their unique blend of Greek,
Roman, and Indian architectural styles is
renowned.
Monasteries
Gandharan Buddhist monasteries were centers
of learning and meditation. These buildings
featured intricate carvings and sculptural
works that highlighted the region's artistry.
Rock-cut Architecture
Gandharan Buddhist rock-cut architecture,
such as the giant Buddhas of Bamiyan, was
carved out of cliffs and mountains. They were
built to worship the Buddha and his teachings
and were often decorated with colorful
frescoes.

50. Overview of Buddhist Architecture in the Region
1 2nd Century BCE -1st Century CE
Introduction of Buddhist architecture in Gandhara,
influenced by Greek and Roman styles.
21st Century -6th Century CE
Flourishing of Gandharan Buddhist art and architecture.
Building of stupas, monasteries and rock-cut structures.
3 7th Century CE
Introduction of Islamic architecture in the region and
decline of Buddhist architecture.

51. StylesofArchitectureinGandhara
Greek
Theuseofcolumnsand
capitalsinGandharan
Buddhistarchitecturewas
influencedbyGreek
styles.
Roman
Romaninfluencecanbe
seenintheuseofarches
andvaultsinGandharan
buildings,especiallyin
therock-cutarchitecture.
Indian
Indigenous Indian
architecturalstyles,such
asthechaityaarches,
werealsoincorporated
intoGandharanBuddhist
architecture.

52. Notable Structures in Gandhara
Takht-i-Bahi Monastery
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Takht-i-
Bahi was a center of learning and art,
showcasing the unique blend of Greek,
Roman, and Indian styles of architecture.
Swat Valley Buddha
The majestic 21-foot-high Buddha statue
carved into a cliff in the Swat Valley was a
testament to the skill and creativity of
Gandharan architects.
Bamiyan Buddhas
The two giant Buddhas of Bamiyan were a
testament to the grandeur and scale of
Gandharan rock-cut architecture, tragically
destroyed by the Taliban in 2001.

53. MONASTIC COMPLEX OF TAKHT-I-BAHI
•Thestupaandviharacourtsareconnectedbyflightsofstairstoacentral
intermediatecourtwhichsplaysoutinaneast-westdirectionandis
mostlycoveredbyaseriesofplatformsofvarioussizesthatoriginally
wouldhaveheldsmallstupasandshrines.
•Theedgesofthisintermediatecourtaredefinedbynichesofvarioussizes
thatmayhaveoriginallyheldstatuesormayhavefunctionedassmall
shopsorstoragecompartments
•TheKushanstupasofGandhararegionfaithfullyreflecttheirlocationas
thehalfwayhousebetweenthestylesofIndiaandChina,the
intermediatespacethroughwhichdiverseideaspassedandwereinthe
processtransformedandrenewed.
•TheIndianstupaisdominatedbythegirthandbodyofthemainstupa
andissurmountedbyasmallsymbolicharmikaandchhatri,whilethe
Chinesepagodaisalmostentirelycomposedoutofthechhatriconceived
onagrandscale.

54. ARIAL VIEW
OF TAKHT-I-
BAHI, NEAR
PESHAWAR,
PAKISTAN

56. THE BAMIYAN BUDDHA STATUES, 4
TH
& 5
TH
CE
•Kushansofbamiyan
•Bamiyanwasthecenterofthe5thcenturyEurasiantrade.Traderoutesfrom
China,IndiaandwestAsiacametogetherinthisvalley,locatedinthemiddle
ofcontemporaryAfghanistan.ThesitewasprotectedbyalargeBuddhist
monastery,withmorethanahundredcavesofvarioussizescarvedoutofthe
sheerclifffaceofthenearbymountains.
•Intheirmidst,separatedbyabout1kilometer,theKushanemperor,Kanishka,
initiatedtheconstructionoftwogiganticbuddhastatues,knowsasthe
Bamiyanbuddhas.Theywerecompleterinthe4thand5thcenturies,under
theSassanians.Colossalbuddhas,neverbuiltinIndia,wereaKushaninvention
thatwassubsequentlywidelyimitatedthroughoutChina,KoreaandJapanfor
centuriestocome.Inmarch2001theyweredestroyedbytheTaliban
governmentofAfghanistanasidols.

57. View of bamiyan
•Thebodiesofthetwobamiyanswerefirstcutdirectlyfromthestoneandthenmoldedwithamixtureofmudandstraw
tocreatethefoldsoftherobes,thehandsandthedetailsoftheface.
•Thedraperywasmadebysuspendingropesfromthestonesurfaceoftheupperbody.Atthebasetheropeswereheldin
placebywoodenpegsandthencoveredoverwithmudplaster.
•Theentiresurfacewasoriginallypaintedingoldandotherbrightcolors.Theoutwardexpressionofthestatues,in
particularthefoldsofthegarments,hasahelleniccharacter.
•Mostofthesmallercavesatbamiyanwerecoveredwithpaintings,verysimilarinstyletotheonefoundatajanta.Butthe
originoftheideaofbuildingcolossalstatuesinasyetunknown.Theonlyknownprecedentsofthistypearefrom
pharaonicegypt.

58. Influence of Gandharan Architecture on
Other Regions
India
GandharanBuddhist
stylesofarchitecture
greatly influenced
Indianart and
architecture.
Central Asia
CentralAsianBuddhist
kingdoms,suchasthe
KushanEmpire,also
adoptedGandharan
architecturalstyles.
China
GandharanBuddhist
artisticstylesmade
theirwaytoChinaalong
the SilkRoad,
influencingthedesign
ofBuddhisttemplesand
sculptures.

59. THANK YOU