Indo-Bauhaus – “Nāda Mandala”: Abstraction of Sacred Temple Bells

Provenance

This artwork reimagines the sacred temple bell through the refined visual language of Indo-Bauhaus design. A symmetrical arrangement of suspended ghantas is positioned against a backdrop of arches and geometric architectural forms, creating a composition built around rhythm, balance, and repetition. The central bell serves as the focal point, surrounded by smaller bells that create a sense of harmony and ceremonial movement.

In Indian spiritual traditions, the temple bell (ghanta) represents the awakening of consciousness through sound. Its resonance is associated with Nāda—the primordial vibration believed to connect the physical and spiritual realms. The surrounding arches evoke the sacred gateways of temples, symbolising the transition from the external world into a space of devotion, reflection, and inner stillness.

Through the principles of Indo-Bauhaus design, these traditional sacred motifs are transformed into a study of geometric harmony. Curved temple forms are distilled into arches, circles, and structured planes, while a sophisticated palette of charcoal, ochre, terracotta, and ivory creates a timeless dialogue between heritage and modern minimalism. The artwork captures the essence of Indian ritual architecture through a contemporary lens, where spirituality meets the elegance of modern design.