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Learn what shikhara means through Nagara towers and Chola architecture, with clear distinctions between a shrine tower, its crown and a gateway.

Learn to read Hindu temple imagery through dated examples of Nataraja, Durga and Garuda, with simple clues for recognising sacred forms.

Understand the garbhagriha through its deity, architectural setting and role in darshan, with specific examples explaining why access rules differ.

Explore Vastu Shastra through architectural texts, spatial diagrams and cultural practice, with clear limits on modern prosperity and health claims.

Explore Hindu temple architecture through Nagara and Dravida forms, Chola and Chalukya examples, changing materials and the life of worship.

Understand the prakara as a temple enclosure through Thanjavur, with clear distinctions between walls, courtyards, gateways and circumambulation.

Explore temple tanks through Thanjavur and Kanchipuram, distinguishing sacred meanings, festival use, construction history and care for water.

Discover the mandapa as a temple hall through Khajuraho and Darasuram, with clear distinctions between porches, sanctums and local ritual uses.