Preserving Heritage: Why Tamil Nadu’s Mandapams and Art Forms Need Our Attention

In the fast-paced world we live in today, much of our attention is focused on the future. However, there is an urgent need to look back and reflect on the incredible heritage left behind by our ancestors. This is especially true in regions like Tamil Nadu, where centuries-old temples, folk art forms, and architectural treasures are slowly disappearing, falling into neglect as modernity encroaches.

Take, for example, the Pudhu Mandapam in Madurai. This grand mandapam, a large pillared hall built centuries ago, once stood as a cultural center for festivals, religious rituals, and performances. Over time, it became neglected and overtaken by shops and traders, losing its original purpose and significance. For decades, it seemed as though the Pudhu Mandapam’s story might end in obscurity.

But thanks to the work of passionate individuals like Amar Ramesh— the September 2024 guest instructor in Vedic Threads –the mandapam is being given a second chance. Amar, a photographer dedicated to documenting and preserving Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage, has been working to capture the beauty of these ancient structures before they are lost. His photographs reveal not only the artistic mastery of the craftsmen who built these places but also the deep spiritual resonance they hold.

Through his lens, Amar brings to life the intricate carvings on the stone pillars, each one telling a story from India’s mythology or showcasing the divine beauty of deities long worshipped within the temple grounds. His work is a reminder that these structures are not merely relics of the past; they are living embodiments of a cultural legacy that must be preserved.

But it’s not just the grand temples that need our attention. Throughout Tamil Nadu, there are countless art forms—folk dances, weavings, music—that are slowly disappearing as younger generations pursue different careers. Traditions like terukūttu, a form of street theater, and jamakālam weaving are being lost to time.

Amar’s mission is not just about capturing the past but about inspiring the present to take action. His photography serves as a call to arms for those who care about preserving India’s cultural fabric. It reminds us that heritage is fragile and that if we do not take steps to preserve it now, we may lose it forever.

If you’ve ever visited an old temple, witnessed a traditional dance performance, or even admired an intricately woven piece of fabric, you’ll know that these elements of our culture evoke something deep within us—a sense of connection to the past and the beauty that came before. By supporting efforts to document, restore, and share these traditions, we ensure that future generations will have the same opportunities to connect with their heritage.

So, as we look to the future, let’s also honor the past. Let’s invest in the stories that shaped us, the art that defined us, and the architecture that stood tall for centuries. Through projects like Amar’s, we can help ensure that Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage lives on.