Course Overview
Have you ever stood before an ancient temple and wondered how it was built, what the sculptures mean, or why it looks the way it does?
The School of Indian History invites you to a specialized online course designed to decode the language of Indian temples. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of architecture, or a heritage lover, this course will transform the way you look at Indian heritage. You will move beyond just “sightseeing” to deeply “seeing” and understanding the divine logic behind these stone structures.
What You Will Learn (Detailed Syllabus)
This comprehensive module covers the journey from simple rock-cut caves to towering structural masterpieces.
1. The Concept of the Hindu Temple
- Understand the philosophy behind temple building.
- The transition from nature worship to structural shrines.
- The temple as a representation of the Cosmos (Purusha).
2. Evolution of Temple Architecture
- Trace the timeline from the early Gupta period to the medieval zenith.
- How rock-cut architecture (caves) paved the way for structural temples.
3. The Major Architectural Styles: Pan-Indian & Regional
Dive deep into the diverse architectural languages of India. We go beyond the basics to explore the unique regional schools that define India’s heritage.
- The Classical Trio:
- Nagara (North): The curvilinear spires (Shikharas) and the majestic verticality of Northern India.
- Dravida (South): The grand pyramidal towers (Vimanas), vast temple towns, and monumental gateways (Gopurams).
- Vesara (Hybrid): The stylistic fusion found in the Deccan, blending the best of North and South.
- Kalinga Style (Odisha):Explore the distinct Rekha Deul (Sanctum) and Pidha Deul (Porch) structures. We will analyze masterpieces like the Lingaraj and Konark Sun Temple, known for their towering grandeur and exquisite stone carving.
- Maru-Gurjara Style (Solanki):Discover the intricate marble and sandstone marvels of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Known for their ornate Toranas, stepped tanks (Kunda), and ceiling carvings so delicate they look like lace.
- Bhumija Style (Central & Western India):A unique variety of the Nagara style, famous for its star-shaped plans and the “spire of spires” concept, where rows of miniature shikharas create a mesmerizing vertical rhythm.
- Wooden Temples of Himachal:Journey to the Himalayas to study the Kath-Kuni architecture. We look at the pagoda-style roofs, intricate wood carvings, and earthquake-resistant designs that blend seamlessly with the mountain landscape.
- Temples of Bengal (Terracotta & Chala):Learn about the Chala (curved roof) style inspired by village huts and the world-famous terracotta temples of Bishnupur, where burnt clay bricks tell epic stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
4. Anatomy of a Temple (Elements)
- Learn the technical terminology: Garbhagriha (Sanctum), Mandapa (Hall), Shikhara/Vimana (Tower), Amalaka, and Kalasha.
- Understanding the function and placement of each element.
5. Basics of Iconography
- How to identify deities and mythological scenes carved in stone.
- Understanding the symbols, weapons (Ayudhas), and postures (Mudras) of sculptures.
Course Details & Logistics
- Instructor: Shantanu Paranjape (Founder, School of Indian History)
- Dates: As given in the message
- Time: 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM (IST)
- Format: Live Virtual Sessions via Zoom
- Access: Recordings & Notes provided (View mode access for 12 months)
Meet Your Instructors
Learn from qualified archaeologists and researchers who bring field experience to the classroom.
Aishwarya Hardikar
Archaeologist & Researcher Aishwarya holds a Master’s degree in Ancient Indian History, Culture, and Archaeology from the prestigious Deccan College, Pune.
- Experience: She has served as a Researcher at the RPG Foundation, Mumbai, and has been a key lecturer with the School of Indian History for over 2.5 years.
- Focus: As a freelance archaeologist, her work focuses on heritage documentation and bridging the gap between academic history and public understanding. She brings a deep passion for exploring the evolution and symbolism of Indian heritage.
Chinmay Pandya
Archaeologist & Iconography Specialist Chinmay is a specialist in Architecture and Iconography with a Master’s degree in Archaeology and Ancient History from MSU Baroda (Maharaja Sayajirao University).
- Experience: He has worked as a Research Assistant at the Department of Archaeology (MSU, Vadodara) and has gained valuable field experience working with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Rajkot Circle. He has been a key lecturer with the School of Indian History for over 1.5 years.
- Focus: With a specialization in Proto-history and Early History, Chinmay is currently working on his PhD proposal. He brings technical expertise in decoding the complex iconography found in Indian temples.
Course Director
Shantanu Paranjape
Shantanu is the visionary behind the School of Indian History. A Chartered Accountant by profession, he is a historian by passion.
- Recognition: Selected as a Youth Icon (Heritage Segment) at the National Youth Festival 2025, presenting ideas to the Prime Minister.
- Experience: Has personally documented 1,000+ temples and conducted 400+ heritage tours.
- Ventures: Founder of Paranjape Tours (Heritage Tourism), Paranjape Organics (Farm-to-Table), and a successful financial consultancy.
Why Enroll?
- Expert Guidance: Learn directly from a passionate researcher and founder of the School of Indian History.
- Certification: Receive a Certificate of Completion to add to your academic or professional portfolio.
- Flexible Learning: Miss a class? Catch up with high-quality recordings available for 6 months.
Fee Structure & Enrollment
Standard Fee: ₹1,800/- 🚀 Early Bird Offer: ₹1,500/- (Restricted to the first 20 participants only)
How to Register:
- Step 1: Make the payment via UPI/GPay/PhonePe to: 7020402446
- Step 2: Send a screenshot of the payment to the same number via WhatsApp.
- Step 3: You will receive a confirmation and the Zoom link for the sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a background in history or architecture to join? A: Not at all. This course is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. We start from the basics.
Q: What if I miss a live session? A: Don’t worry. All sessions are recorded, and you will have access to the recordings for 6 months to watch at your own pace.
Q: Will notes be provided? A: Yes, curated notes and reference material will be shared in view mode to help you revise.
Q: In which Language the course will be conducted? A: In English but participants can ask questions in Hindi as well