Terracotta to Terraces: Tracing the Unique Temple Architecture of Bengal

Abstract

This paper explores the diverse architectural styles of temple construction in Bengal from the 9th to the 19th centuries. Through a detailed examination of structural variations and decorations, the study highlights how the intermingling of Hindu, Islamic, and later European influences shaped the distinctive temple architecture in this region. The research uses architectural analysis and historical texts to identify key styles, such as the 'do-chala' and 'char-chala' huts, alongside the more ornate 'Ratna' and 'naba-ratna' structures. These styles reflect the religious and cultural synthesis and the geographical and material constraints influencing temple architecture in Bengal. The findings underscore the role of Gaudiya Vaishnavism and regional patronage in fostering a unique architectural heritage characterized by its terracotta embellishments and innovative structural forms. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of South Asian architectural diversity and its socio-religious contexts, offering insights into the region's broader patterns of cultural interchange.