Indian Columbus

Located in Coventry's historic Spon Street, the buildings at 181 and 182 stand as enduring testaments to the city's rich architectural heritage. These structures, with histories dating back to the 18th and early 20th centuries, have witnessed significant transformations, reflecting both the passage of time and the city's commitment to preservation. Originally established around 1750, 181 Spon Street has a storied past. Known as the Rising Sun, this establishment served as a public house for over two centuries. The current building, which replaced a two-story structure in January 1896, showcases architectural features typical of that era.  It exhibits the architectural charm of Tudor Revival style, a hallmark of Spon Street’s historical character. The exteriors are adorned with dark timber beams forming intricate patterns against white plaster, a signature of Tudor-inspired aesthetics. The steep, gabled roofs with brick chimneys crown the buildings, emphasizing their perio...

This is the tenth installment in my series on the Kanheri Caves. In earlier articles, I explored Cave No. 1 and Cave No. 2 in detail. In the previous article, I introduced Cave No. 3, highlighting its entrance and the accompanying sculptures. Now, let us step inside to uncover its interior marvels. Cave No. 3 was excavated by two merchant brothers, Gajasena and Gajamita, during the reign of Yajnashri Satkarni, a Satavahana ruler from the late 2nd century CE. The cave features a well-crafted forecourt with a flight of steps leading to a rectangular verandah and an apsidal Chaitya at the rear. Two massive pillars, emerging from the side walls, dominate the entrance. In this article, I will focus on these impressive pillars. The kumbha (base) forms the foundation of the pillars. Here, the base is adorned with intricate reliefs, including miniature aediculae (shrine-like motifs) and figurative depictions, representing religious or narrative themes. The stambha, or shaft, is the elongated c...

Marina Bay Sands is an architectural masterpiece that defines Singapore’s skyline. Opened in 2010, it was developed by Las Vegas Sands and designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safdie. With a staggering cost of approximately S$8 billion, it was the world’s most expensive standalone casino property at the time. Inspired by decks of cards, its design symbolizes balance and innovation, perfectly embodying Singapore’s global stature. From the outside, Marina Bay Sands is an awe-inspiring sight, especially at night. The structure features three towering 55-story buildings, seamlessly connected by the Sands SkyPark—a boat-shaped rooftop terrace that boldly defies conventional architectural norms. The SkyPark adds to its allure, seemingly floating above the city with its lush greenery and futuristic design. At night, the resort dazzles with its vibrant red and gold lights, reflecting its grandeur and modernity. Framed by the surrounding greenery and urban landscape, Marina Bay Sands stands...

Located along the serene Beach Road in Puducherry, the Kargil War Memorial honors the memory of 527 Indian soldiers who gave their lives during the Kargil War. Built by the Government, the memorial serves as a powerful reminder of a conflict that, while limited in scope, profoundly influenced the nation's collective spirit and reinforced its patriotic resolve. The architecture of the memorial is understated yet deeply evocative, reflecting its solemn purpose. Four tall, rectangular stone columns with square capitals frame the structure, exuding a sense of strength and dignity. At its heart lies a central plinth, crowned by a symbolic representation of a soldier's helmet resting atop a rifle. This iconic imagery serves as a universal emblem of military sacrifice and remembrance. The design avoids excessive ornamentation, ensuring the focus remains on these meaningful elements, creating a space that invites quiet reflection and reverence. Happy travelling.

Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Humayun's Tomb complex in Delhi, the Afsarwala Tomb and its adjacent mosque stand as enduring markers of Mughal architectural and cultural legacy. Constructed in the mid-16th century during Emperor Akbar's reign, these structures carry a blend of historical intrigue and architectural finesse, offering a window into the past. The Tomb's Enigmatic Identity The Afsarwala Tomb houses the remains of an unidentified individual, sparking speculation about its origins. The name "Afsarwala" likely derives from the Persian word afsar, meaning "officer," suggesting that this could be the resting place of a high-ranking military commander. Some theories link the tomb to Abdul Fateh Sultan Afshar, a member of the Turkish Afshar tribe who accompanied Emperor Humayun during his return to India in 1555. Historical records indicate that Abdul Fateh chose to remain in India, possibly aligning him with the tomb’s creatio...

I have been extensively documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, delving into its remarkable architecture, layout, iconography, deities, inscriptions, festivals, waterbodies, and other notable aspects. In this concluding episode, I will outline key construction milestones and significant additions to the temple over the centuries. Photo Courtesy - Vijay Bhat The temple, believed to have originated in the early Pandya period, has evolved through contributions from various dynasties, patrons, and devotees. Below is a chronological list of notable structures and features, supported by historical records where available: The original temple is believed to have been constructed in the 6th century CE or earlier. Mukkurini Vinayaka near the southern Dwarapala in the Maha Mandapa of the Nellaiyappar shrine dates to the Chola period (11th century CE). Nellai Govindan, as per some records, belongs to the Rajendra Chola period (11th century CE), though this date is deb...