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The Hindu Temple

The Hindu Temple

Author: Hindu Parenting November 21, 2023 Duration: 1:09:11
The Hindu Parenting Podcast
KidsKids & FamilyFamilyParenting

This episode features Shri Ramakrishna Kongalla, a researcher on temples and the Asst. Prof. at the Department of Travel and Tourism Management.

Shri Kongalla brings his expertise in understanding temples to help us decode the beautiful stories that temples tell. What is the dhvajasthambam? Are there regional variations in temple styles? What do we need to know in order to decipher the sculpture on the temple walls? What is the order of things to do in a temple?

We hope parents will use this conversation to help children understand and appreciate the profound yet simple meanings behind everything related to the Devasthanam i.e. the Hindu temple.

Please listen till the end for a message especially meant for today’s parents and children!

Chapters in this episode:

0:00 - Introduction

1:01 - Is “Temple” the right word for Bharateeya Devalayas?

4:14 - Where should a Devalaya be located?

8:09 - Difference between Temple and Devalayam

10:25 - What are the different components of a Devalaya?

19:19 - Two styles of Construction

22:36 - Types of Mandapas

23:48 - Story of Dvaja Stambham (Highlight)

30:16 - Meanings of Devalaya Carvings

39:57 - KirtiMukha (Lion face) in Devalaya (Highlight)

46:25 - Yali or Vyala representative of Purusharthas

52:23 - What to do in Devalaya?

1:04:13 - Message for Hindu Parents

1:06:07 - Plan for another podcast with the speaker

1:07:30 - Additional Info and Pictures are available

1:08:00 - Hindu Parenting Platform Info

Here are some beautiful images shared by Shri Ramakrishna Kongalla to aid in the understanding of the concepts explained in this episode.

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Finding your footing as a parent within a rich cultural tradition can feel both deeply meaningful and surprisingly complex. The Hindu Parenting Podcast sits with you in that space, offering thoughtful conversations that go beyond simple advice. Each episode explores the everyday realities of raising children while consciously nurturing their connection to Hindu values, philosophy, and heritage. You’ll hear from parents, educators, and community members sharing their personal journeys, practical challenges, and small victories. The discussions might cover how to naturally introduce concepts like dharma or seva into family life, navigate festivals and stories in a modern context, or foster a genuine sense of identity and belonging. This isn’t about dogma, but about building a thoughtful, resilient framework for your family. Hosted by Hindu Parenting, the podcast serves as a companion for those wanting to raise informed, grounded children who feel a sense of pride and continuity as part of a living civilization. Tune in for authentic dialogue that acknowledges the questions as much as it seeks answers, all centered on the real-world work of nurturing the next generation.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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