An analytical case study of Bengal style terracotta temples in Maluti temple village in Dumka District of Jharkhand, India

Abstract

A unique temple village exists in Dumka district of Jharkhand, known as Maluti, which is renowned for existence of 72 terracotta temples dating back to the 17th-18th centuries exhibiting the distinctive Bengali styles of temple design. Once numbering 108, there was gradual decay and loss of about one-third of the temples. This paper provides a comprehensive case study of the temples of Maluti. The objectives of this paper are to examine historical roots, religious practices, and cultural significance of these temples; explore their architectural aspects, including layouts, designs, ornamentation, structural and seismic characteristics; assess the challenges the temples face due to weathering and erosion; and suggest measures for tourism development at Maluti. Despite extreme abundace, no academic research has ever been done on the terracotta temples of Maluti. This is a first-of its kind research on the temples undertaken from an architectural perspectiveinvolving primary survey. The paper also relies on secondary sources of information. It offers profound insights into the fusion of architectural styles and artistic expressions and the richness of the culture of Bengal, and specific recommendations for enhancing tourism so that the world can see these architectural treasures and their enduring contribution to Bengal's cultural landscape, which shall not only garner economic momentum in this largely unknown village, but also enable preservation of these temples for generations to come.