Art and Architecture of the Telugu Cola Temples (An Old and Rare Book)

The present volume is a pioneering study highlighting art and architecture in Andhradesa based on artistic style. It is confined to Pakanadu which geographically corresponds to the south-eastern coastal tracts of Andhra Pradesh i.e., the lower Pennar region. The Telugu Colas of Nellore were an important ruling family who controlled this region during 12-14 century A.D. and it was during this period the Pakanadu region reached height of excellence in all spheres especially in the field of art and architecture.

Dr. V. K. Mohan obtained his masters degree in 1971 from Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupathi, M. Phil. in 1991 from Nagarjuna University and Ph. D. in 1994 from Telugu University, Hyderabad. Since 1978 he has been teaching in the Department of History at S.V.R.M. College, Nagaram, Andhra Pradesh. He is a member of Indian History Congress, Andhra Pradesh History Congress and Founder President of Guntur District History Association. He has contributed research papers to annual sessions of History Congresses and National Seminars. He is a writer and also editor for Indian history books published by School of Correspondence Courses, Nagarjuna University.

Studies on temple art and architecture in Andhra Pradesh have generally been confined to a single temple complex or large regions like Rayalaseema, Telingana or Andhra Pradesh as a whole. Many studies based on the dynastic divisions have been carried out. In recent times art historians have pointed out the inherent defects of the dynastic model and recognised the regional classification of the temples based on stylistic criteria as a viable method for the study of Indian temple architecture and art. The present work will fulfil the need in this direction, as its main concern is to present a systematic description and analysis of architectural elements of the temples within a specific region called Pākanāḍu.

**Contents and Sample Pages**