India is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions, including the construction of magnificent temples. The country is home to some of the world's most impressive temple architecture, with a history dating back thousands of years. These temples are not only architectural marvels but also hold deep spiritual significance for the people of India. The construction of these temples was not just a matter of aesthetics but also involved intricate scientific calculations and planning. In this article, we will delve into the science behind the Indian temples and the secrets that lie within their walls.

History of Indian Temples:

The history of Indian temples dates back to ancient times, with the construction of some of the earliest temples dating back to the 6th century BC. These early temples were built using wood, which has long since decayed, leaving behind only the stone foundations. As time passed, the architecture of Indian temples evolved, with new styles and techniques being developed over the centuries.

The temple architecture of India can be broadly divided into three categories – Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara. Nagara style temples are characterized by their curved towers and are found mainly in northern India, while Dravida style temples are characterized by their pyramid-shaped towers and are found mainly in southern India. Vesara style temples are a fusion of the Nagara and Dravida styles and are found mainly in central India.

The construction of Indian temples was not just a matter of aesthetics but also involved intricate scientific calculations and planning. These temples were built to last for centuries and withstand the test of time, earthquakes, and other natural calamities. The science behind Indian temples can be broadly divided into four categories – Vastu Shastra, Ayurveda, Astronomy, and Mathematics.

The Indian temples were constructed using a variety of materials, depending on what was available in the area. While the early designs were made utilizing less tough materials like wood, block, bamboo, and mortar, the moderately contemporary ones utilized various stones, alongside clever procedures. The earliest temples' ruins are virtually nonexistent as a result of this.

According to ancient Hindu scriptures, the temple serves as a connection between the divine abode and the physical world. Vastupurushamandala was introduced as a means of bridging the gap that existed between the two. Three distinct words, Vastu, which refers to the physical environment, Purusha, which refers to energy, and mandala, which refers to a diagram, are the sources of the term Vastupurushamandala. For a variety of reasons, the square shape, which is considered to be the most fundamental geometric form, has been equated with the idea of the human body as a microcosm.

Firstly, the four cardinal directions are represented by the square's four sides.

Secondly, it is capable of encompassing and generating other integral shapes like triangles and hexagons.

Thirdly, the square is a symbol of order, unity, and a complete cycle that begins and ends at the same location. Lastly, Hinduism holds that the number four itself governs human behavior: four seasons, four Vedas, four Brahma heads, four phases of life, and four great eras. The circle, which is the foundation of mandalas and represents immortality and timelessness, receives a similar amount of attention.

In terms of the Vastupurushamandala, a large square is divided into smaller squares to create a grid-like pattern. Each square unit clearly denotes the areas occupied by the various gods and, as a result, the distinct universes that they inhabit.

Subsequent to drawing an impeccably estimated sketch of the Vastupurushamandala, it is illustrated on the site of sanctuary development. This is finished to hold onto all the astronomical and supernatural energy under the sanctuary. The symmetrical shape, with equal angles on all sides, keeps the force in the center, resulting in equilibrium. It is accepted that the bigger the complete number of squares, the more sure energy is held and in the end, discharged to the actual world. As the heavenly location for the principal icon, the garbhagriha is constructed at the square's center. The stellate pattern is used in a number of temples in South India, like the Chenna Kesava Temple in Belur. This indicates that the garbhagriha is constructed entirely on the basis of the intricate arrangement of squares in a complex star-shaped pattern.

The other activities or rituals in the temple also have a lot of value, especially when it comes to using the five senses. Offering flowers, for instance, is linked to olfaction while sounding the conch shell is linked to hearing. Parikrama, or walking around the garbhagriha, is meant to absorb all positive vibrations after the five bodily senses have been activated. 

Additionally, it is believed that ringing the temple bells unites both hemispheres of the brain by producing a distinct sound. Even idol worship has the goal of making it easier to pay attention to one's mind. The ancient Hindu scriptures also serve as the foundation for the practice of applying kumkuma or tilak to one's forehead. The sixth chakra, also known as the third eye, is located on the forehead and is thought to be the area that is most receptive.

Vedic science has some beliefs which today science has missed some of it. Let's see the science behind it:

Vastu Shastra

Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture that deals with the principles of design, layout, and spatial arrangement. According to Vastu Shastra, the construction of a building should be based on certain principles that take into account the laws of nature and the five elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space.

Indian temples are built according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, with careful attention given to the direction and orientation of the temple. The main entrance of the temple is always towards the east, as it is believed to bring prosperity and happiness. The inner sanctum, or garbhagriha, where the deity is placed, is located in the center of the temple and faces east.

The placement of the idol is also significant and is based on the principles of Vastu Shastra. The idol is placed in such a way that the positive energy from the idol is channeled towards the devotees. The position of the idol is also determined based on the position of the stars and planets at the time of the temple's construction.

Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the use of natural remedies and holistic treatments. Ayurveda also played a significant role in the construction of Indian temples, with the use of natural materials and plant-based remedies.

The use of natural materials such as stone, wood, and clay in temple construction is believed to have therapeutic properties. The carvings and sculptures on the temple walls also depict scenes from Ayurvedic medicine, including the use of herbal remedies and healing techniques.

Astronomy

Astronomy played a significant role in the construction of Indian temples, with intricate calculations and observations made to determine the orientation and alignment of the temple. The position of the temple was determined based on the position of the stars and planets at the time of the temple's construction.

Temple Geometry

Another important aspect of the science behind Indian temples is the use of geometry. Many temples are built based on geometric principles such as the use of the square, the circle, and the triangle. These shapes are believed to have a profound impact on the energy flow within the temple.

The use of the square in temple design represents stability and balance. The circle represents continuity and infinity, while the triangle represents the balance between the three forces of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Acoustics

The acoustics of Indian temples is another fascinating aspect of their design. Many temples are built in such a way that they amplify sound and create a specific resonance. This is achieved through the use of specific materials and shapes in the construction of the temple.

The use of certain materials such as granite and limestone is believed to enhance the acoustics of the temple. The shape of the temple, including the use of domes and arches, also plays a role in creating a resonance that amplifies sound.

Engineering

The engineering behind the construction of Indian temples is also a testament to the knowledge and skill of ancient Indian architects. Many temples were built using complex techniques such as interlocking stones and using a combination of heat and water to shape the stones.

The use of interlocking stones allowed for the construction of large structures without the need for mortar. The combination of heat and water was used to shape the stones to fit perfectly into place.

Final words : These principles have guided the development of Hindu temple architecture over thousands of years into centers for Hindu beliefs and pilgrimages. Because the architectural styles of the temples are now deeply ingrained in people's minds, it's hard to imagine making any significant changes to them.