The search for vernacular identity: Maratha temples in Maharashtra,India

摘要

The vernacular architectural tradition of Maratha temples in Maharashtra is an unexplored asset for cultural and heritage tourism. Based on a conceptual framework that is embedded in historical circumstances, this paper presents and analyses three major problems that have hampered the tourism potential of Maratha temples: viz. the lack of canonization from governments at various levels; the conflicts and contradictions of Hindu nationalism for promoting identifiable tourist attractions; and lack of infrastructure and investment to bolster the hybrid architectural identity and visual character of Maratha temples. It is suggested that the ambiguities intrinsic to Maratha temple architecture result out of disparate socio-cultural and architectural influences and create ideal circumstances for an authentic vernacular experience.