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7 articles for “sacred landscapes”
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Nurturing Narratives: Unveiling Theoretical Underpinnings of the Indian Perspective on Cultural Landscapes
Abstract: This paper explores the theoretical frameworks that underpin the study of cultural landscapes in the context of India. It encompasses various perspectives, each offering unique insights into the intricate narratives woven into the land. The discussion begins with an examination of cultural geography, emphasizing the evolving conceptions of 'culture' and its relationship with geography. Ethnoarchaeology is then introduced as a method to understand the interplay between artifact variability and human …
Published in International Journal of Landscape Planning and Architecture · Vol. 10, Issue 2, 2024 · pp. 1–12 Read article
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Franchising Kakhi: Converging Mythologies and Geographies in Creating Multiple Manifestations of Kashis in India and Nepal
Abstract: Sacred sites are created to suit and promote particular legend(s), where myth, realities, histories and geographies converge and become inseparable creating unique Sacred Cultural Landscapes. Most prolific of such example is that of Kashi (Banaras/Varanasi), which is eulogised as the religious capital by Hindus. However beside being a tirtha Kashi has also become an ‘Idea’ which has been replicated or manifested at several places within India. These Kashi’s namesakes neither …
Published in International Journal of Landscape Planning and Architecture · Vol. 10, Issue 2, 2024 · pp. 46–63 Read article
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Kashi Vishvanatha Kshetra in Historic Context, a Narrative landscape in Varanasi, India
Abstract: Abstract This essay describes how the Kashi Visvanatha temple and its holy grounds have changed since they were first mentioned in the sixth century BCE. The patron deity of Varanasi, Vishvanatha, also known as Vishveshvara, is a manifestation of Shiva, who is considered the Lord of the World (also called Kashi/Banaras). The temple faced destruction, demolition, reconstruction, contestation, and recent resurrection in its history spanning more than a millennium. In …
Published in International Journal of Architectural Heritage · Vol. 7, Issue 2, 2024 · pp. 1–18 Read article
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Vastu Shastra and the Celestial Connection: Indian Perspectives on Landscape Architecture
Abstract: As an ancient tradition with a strong foundation in celestial observation, Indian astrology has had a profound impact on how people perceive and engage with their surroundings. This study examines the relationship between astrology and landscape design via the prism of Vastu Shastra and other traditional traditions, with a sole focus on the Indian environment. This case study illustrates how planetary alignments and celestial patterns influence the creation of harmonious …
Published in International Journal of Landscape Planning and Architecture · Vol. 11, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 1–8 Read article
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The Himalaya—A Greatest Architectural Heritage and Tourism Destination of Earth World
Abstract: Mountains cover around 27% of the Earth’s land surface and contribute to the sustenance and well-being of 720 million people living in the mountains and billions more living downstream. In other way, we can say that over half the human population depends on mountains for water, food, and clean energy. The Himalayan region has a very important divine meaning for Hindus as a “sacred space”. For Hindus, it is not …
Published in International Journal of Architectural Heritage · Vol. 1, Issue 2, 2018 · pp. 5–10 Read article
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Preserving the past: Stepwell as a Cultural Landscape and Sustainable Water Source
Abstract: Water is an essential element of nature and a fundamental resource for all life on Earth. Since ancient times, human civilizations have flourished around water sources, and rivers are revered as sacred, across diverse cultures. In India, traditional water conservation systems like stepwells played a crucial role in ensuring the availability of water throughout the year. Stepwells, known for its unique architectural and cultural significance, have been an integral part …
Published in International Journal of Architectural Heritage · Vol. 9, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 72–84 Read article
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Protecting the Viewscape and Visual Relationship of Sacred Heritage Monuments in South India – A Case of Gopurams of Tamil Nadu
Abstract: The unique significance and social value of heritage monuments across the world prompted many governments to work out strategies to protect their viewscapes. The Sacred heritage monuments and their viewscape are important to the overall quality of our communities, the views and visual relationships towards these monuments foster emotional bonding between people and them. In India, many such sacred heritage monuments are surrounded by new urban development which destroy the …
Published in International Journal of Architecture and Infrastructure Planning · Vol. 3, Issue 1, 2017 · pp. 23–35 Read article