As a part of nation-wide Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is organizing a two days international conference titled as “Devāyatanam – An odyssey of Indian temple architecture” on 25-26^th February, 2022 at Hampi (Karnataka).

The Conference will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture Shri G Kishan Reddy. The Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Culture, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal will address the conference virtually.

The inaugural session will take place at Pattabhirama Temple, Hampi while academic sessions will be held in Auditorium, Kannada University, Hampi. The chosen venue, Hampi served as the capital of the great medieval era empire of Vijayanagara for more than two centuries from 1336 to 1556 CE.

Temple has always been an integral part of the Indian life and its ecosystem in its own ways. Temple construction was practiced as a pious act not only in the subcontinent but the idea also travelled to the nearest neighborhood such as south-east and east Asia, therefore, it becomes an interesting study as to how the art and technique of temple architecture spread from India to other regions and how this art was modified, to suit the local requirements and also how it in turn inspired the development of new architectural styles.

The conference aims to deliberate upon the philosophical, religious, social, economic, technical, scientific, art and architectural aspects of temple. It also intends to initiate a dialogue on the evolution and development of the various styles of temple architecture such as the Nagara, Vesara, Dravida, Kalinga and others.

Various sessions of discussions will be held during the conference to cover various aspects of Indian temple architecture i.e. Temple- From the formless to form, Temple- Evolution of temple architecture, Temple-Regional development forms and styles, Temple-Epicenter of art, culture, education, administration and economy, Temple-Protector of environment, Temple- Culture diffusion in South east Asia.

The conference will be beneficial for scholars, students of Indian history, archeology, culture and architecture and general public. The aim of the conference would be creating interest among scholars and students alike, to learn and respect our heritage.

Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration is an embodiment of India's socio-cultural, political and economic identity and progress since independence.

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