Comparison of India and China Architecture
One of the most enduring achievements of Indian civilization is undoubtedly its architecture, which extends to a great deal more than the Taj Mahal or the temple complexes of Khajuraho and Vijayanagara. The beginnings of Indian architecture are more properly to be dated to the start of Buddhism in India, in the reign of Ashoka and the construction of Buddhist monasteries and stupas. Buddhist architecture was predominant for several centuries, and there are few remains of Hindu temples from even late antiquity. Some of the best Buddhist arts and architecture are the Great Stupa at Sanchi and the rock-cut caves at Ajanta. The Great stupa is dome shapes topped by a triple parasol set within a square railing. Ajanta’s caves where carved deeply out of the mountain side to make beautiful scenery. The architecture of India comes from its history, culture, and religion. Indian architecture progressed with time and learned the many influences that came as a result of India's global discourse with other regions of the world. The architectural methods practiced in India are a result of examination and implementation of its established building traditions and outside cultural interactions. Though old, this Eastern tradition has also incorporated modern values as India became a modern nation state. The urban architecture of India as the country became more integrated with the world's economy. Traditional Vastu Shastra remains influential in India's architecture during the contemporary era. The Buddhist stupa, a dome shaped monument, was used in India as a commemorative monument associated with storing sacred relics. The stupa architecture was adopted in Southeast and East Asia, where it became prominent as a Buddhist monument used for enshrining sacred relics. Upon its discovery, this architectural became known as pagoda to the people from the Western world. Fortified cities with stūpas, viharas, and temples were constructed during the Maurya empire. Wooden architecture