13/09/2025
SHOONYA - The temple and the people
- A narrow parcel of land (23'x73') was left open in Khamariya district of Chhattisgarh, to build a place of worship for it's residents.
- This rectangular plot is surrounded by residences on each side, with a single approach road on it's east.
- The site existed harmoniously with peepal and neem trees, which are being preserved.
The intent:
- To marry the natural vegetation and the space for the deity, in order to create a wholesome experience.
- To curate a curious and exciting religious journey.
- To create a positive environment to allow everyone to reconnect with their inner self and their deity on an individual level.
The design decisions :
- The plan was derived from the proportions, sequence and calculations referring 'Manasara'.
- The rigidity in the grid pattern of the plan was broken by the organic nature of the landscape leading to the deity.
- The central platform is surrounded by a pradakshina patha which is bound by a low brick compound.
- The rhythmic proportions of the columns and Shikhar, represents the connection to earth and sky, rooted in ground yet reaching the sky and connecting the people in between.
The interplay of Light :
1. Landscape foliage performing theatrics throughout the day.
2. The temple shrine/Garbagriha slices it's walls, houses an intricate Jali window and a beautiful skylight, to welcome slices of sunlight in through all the directions.
3. The semi-open Mandapa space, seamelessly integrates the exterior and the interior.
4. The shikhar with its interlocking technique, invites light slivers through numerous pockets.
