Different Religions & Influence (3rd Century BCE – 6th Century CE)

In ancient India, religions had a significant influence on the development of the creative and cultural landscape and the spiritual beliefs of the populace. Significant advancements in literature, art, painting, and temple architecture were the result of the interaction between religion and culture. The distinct contributions of Bhagavatism, Saivism, Mahayana Buddhism, Hinayana Buddhism, and Jainism have influenced India’s religious and creative traditions. 

Bhagavatism: The Cult of Vishnu

The devotion of Bhagavan Vishnu, also known as Krishna, was at the heart of the Vaishnavite sect known as Bhagavatism. The Bhagavata tradition, which saw Krishna as the Supreme Deity, is where it originated. One important work of Bhagavatism that emphasizes devotion (bhakti) and righteousness (dharma) is the Bhagavad Gita, which is a portion of the Mahabharata.

Cultural and Artistic Influences of Bhagavatism:

1. Literature: Sacred texts such as the Bhagavata Purana and the Vishnu Purana were composed, influencing later Bhakti movements.
2. Temple Architecture: Vaishnava temples like the Vishnu temple at Deogarh (Gupta period) exhibit intricate carvings depicting Krishna’s life.
3. Sculpture and Iconography: Early depictions of Krishna, Balarama, and Vishnu in various forms, such as Narasimha and Varaha, became common in temple reliefs and statues.
4. Performing Arts: The tradition of Bhajans, Kirtans, and dance forms like Bharatanatyam, which narrate Krishna’s stories, gained prominence.

Saivism: The Cult of Shiva

Saivism, which worships Lord Shiva as the Supreme God, has roots in Vedic traditions and became prominent during the early medieval period.

Cultural and Artistic Influences of Saivism:

1. Temple Architecture: The famous Ellora caves (Kailasa temple), constructed under the Rashtrakutas, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and exhibits exquisite Dravidian architecture.
2. Sculpture and Iconography: Iconic representations of Shiva, such as Nataraja (cosmic dancer), Ardhanarishvara (half-man, half-woman), and Linga (phallic representation of Shiva), symbolize deep philosophical concepts.
3. Literature: Shaivite texts such as the Shiva Purana and works by Tamil saints (Nayanars) laid the foundation for later Bhakti movements.
4. Dance and Music: Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathak contain devotional pieces dedicated to Shiva.

Mahayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhism, which emerged around the 1st century CE, emphasized the concept of the Bodhisattva (an enlightened being who delays Nirvana for the sake of others) and the worship of the Buddha as a divine figure.

Cultural and Artistic Influences of Mahayana Buddhism:

1. Stupa and Monastery Architecture:
   1. The construction of large monastic centers like Nalanda, Vikramashila, and Odantapuri.
   2. The stupas at Sanchi and Amaravati were developed into larger, more elaborate structures with decorative reliefs.
2. Sculpture and Iconography:
   1. The first anthropomorphic images of the Buddha appeared, influenced by Greco-Buddhist art from Gandhara.
   2. The Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara and Manjusri became popular figures.
3. Painting and Manuscripts:
   1. Ajanta cave paintings, depicting Jataka tales, flourished under Mahayana patronage.
   2. Illustrated Buddhist manuscripts like the Prajnaparamita Sutra became popular.

Hinayana Buddhism

Hinayana Buddhism (also known as Theravada Buddhism) focuses on individual enlightenment and adheres to the original teachings of the Buddha without the concept of Bodhisattvas.

Cultural and Artistic Influences of Hinayana Buddhism:

1. Stupa Architecture:
   1. The early stupas at Sanchi, Bharhut, and Sarnath were built as relics to enshrine the remains of the Buddha.
   2. Unlike Mahayana, Hinayana stupas were simple and less decorative.
2. Rock-Cut Caves: The Ajanta, Karle, and Bhaja caves contain simple viharas (monastic halls) and chaityas (prayer halls).
3. Sculpture: The early phase of Buddhist art focused on symbols (Dharma chakra, lotus, footprints) rather than Buddha’s anthropomorphic representations.

Jainism

Jainism, founded by Mahavira, emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), asceticism, and self-discipline. It split into two major sects: Digambara (sky-clad) and Svetambara (white-clad).

Cultural and Artistic Influences of Jainism:

1. Temple Architecture:
   1. The Dilwara Temples (Mount Abu), built in marble, are masterpieces of Jain architecture.
   2. The Ranakpur Jain Temple exhibits intricate carvings and a unique geometric design.
2. Sculpture and Iconography:
   1. Jain iconography includes Tirthankara statues, characterized by meditative postures and serene expressions.
   2. The Gomateshwara statue (Bahubali) at Shravanabelagola is a monolithic Jain sculpture.
3. Literature:
   1. Jain monks wrote extensively in Prakrit and Sanskrit, including texts like the Kalpasutra and Acharanga Sutra.
4. Painting and Manuscripts:
   1. Jain miniature paintings flourished in western India, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
   2. Jain texts were often illuminated with gold and natural pigments.

Conclusion

Indian spirituality was influenced by the religious traditions of Bhagavatism, Saivism, Mahayana Buddhism, Hinayana Buddhism, and Jainism, which also permanently altered the country’s cultural and artistic legacy. Scholars and artists around the world are still motivated by the depth of literature, the beauty of paintings, the intricacy of sculpture, and the magnificence of temple construction.