The Temple in Andhradesa (An Old and Rare Book)

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About the Book The Hindu temple is the centre of social, religious and cultural life of the people. Schools attached to temples impart education, sculptures and paintings on the temple walls provide opportunities for aesthetic expression and art appreciation It also offer employment to architects. musicians, dancers and a host of other professionals. As such, the temple has always received patronage of the reigning monarchs, oligarchs, the rich and wealthy. Of course, the common man is intimately attached to the temple both for wordly and otherworldly business.

This work makes a thorough study of the institution of temple in its various aspects. Beginning with the various types of temples, their individual styles, significance and symbolism, the study dwells on the construction, maintenance, organisation, management, worship and festivals. Further, the discussion probes into the gifts made to the temples and the purposes for which the gifts are made. The account of various annual and periodic temple festivals makes a fascinating reading Management of the temple, with attached property and institutions and various functionaries, has received the author's meticulous attention.

Though the study is largely based on the temples of Andhra Pradesh, the findings have an all-India relevance and interest. A first research work of its kind, useful to scholars of history, art, architecture, religion, culture, sociology and indology.

About the Author Dr. A. Suryakumari received her M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in History from Sri Venkateswara University Tirupati. She was Professor of History at St. Mary's College, Tuticorin, before moving to Mother Teresa Women's University, Kodaikanal, as Professor and Head of the Department of Historical Studies.

Preface This work entitled "The Temple in Andhradeśa" is devoted to a study of the temple in its various aspects, namely Construction, Maintenance, Organization, Management, Worship and Festivals. This study is based upon a careful examination of 8,000 inscriptions, on stone and copper plates, found in several districts of Andhradeśa and a judicious selection of all matter relating to the temple.

Book's Contents and Sample Pages