Scientific reasoning and mythological description seen in architecture behind the Nagara-Style Temples

Abstract

Temples have spiritual values but authors believe that there has to be some scientific explanation that builds its relationship with mythological roots. Temples have architectural and spiritual significance but the initial importance of the construction of each element of this significant structure remains unsung. This research aims to understand the relationship between scientific clarification and mythological description of Nagara- style temples present in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. To fulfill the purpose of this research, data was collected from various journals and publications along with case studies proved through interviews. A study was conducted which helped identify the evolution of temple architecture over time and context. The concept derivation of the temple was studied concerning ‘Vastu-Shastra’ and modern science. Every spatial element was separately explored to get information on its architecture, mythology, and usage by devotees.
By doing so, the cruciality of the temple can be retained and the connections with the origin can be maintained while trying to enhance the temple for better operation. This will assist modern science and architecture to maintain the spiritual vitality of the God-to-human sacred space to get utilized as they were at the beginning of their construction. The science linked to the mythology of the past temple does not only clarify the temples we see today but also gives a vision on what temples of the future should look like. This study will provide useful insights into the implacable changes for temples for their progressive development in the coming years.