Temple engineering and seismic design in ancient Indian architecture: An inquiry into structural intelligence and earthquake resilience
Author(s): Sikhasree Ray and Santigopal Jana
Abstract: Ancient Indian temple architecture embodies a remarkable integration of spiritual symbolism, artistic mastery, and structural ingenuity. While celebrated for their aesthetic grandeur, these temples also demonstrate sophisticated earthquake-resilient engineering, developed centuries before modern seismic science. This study investigates the structural principles, material choices, and spatial planning strategies embedded in diverse regional styles Kalingan, Dravidian, and Nagara with a focus on their adaptation to seismic zones. Drawing from Vāstu Śāstra, Śilpa Śāstra, archaeological evidence, and modern engineering analyses, the research identifies core design features such as interlocking stone joinery, modular segmentation, tapered massing, broad plinths, sand-bed foundations, and symmetry-based load distribution. Case studies, including the Sun Temple at Modhera, Brihadeshwara Temple, and Jagannath Temple, are examined alongside Himalayan timber-stone hybrids to reveal how ancient builders employed intuitive seismic isolation, mass damping, and flexible joints. Comparative analysis with contemporary earthquake engineering highlights parallels in base isolation, mass dampening, modular redundancy, and joint flexibility. The findings underscore that ancient Indian construction practices not only achieved structural longevity but also offer valuable models for modern sustainable, disaster-resilient architecture.
DOI: 10.22271/27069109.2025.v7.i8a.489Pages: 28-34 | Views: 2506 | Downloads: 2002Download Full Article: Click Here
How to cite this article:
Sikhasree Ray, Santigopal Jana.
Temple engineering and seismic design in ancient Indian architecture: An inquiry into structural intelligence and earthquake resilience. Int J Hist 2025;7(8):28-34. DOI:
10.22271/27069109.2025.v7.i8a.489
