Outline and background of “merged temple”: Study on extension and construction surrounding existing Hindu temples in Varanasi Old City, India

Abstract

This paper discusses the outline and the conditions of the phenomenon known as the “merged temple,” a composite building consisting of the extension of a “sub-building” covering or wrapping an existing Hindu temple, or “main temple.” These are frequently observed in the Old City of Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh, India). Their number and distribution, morphological variations, forming process, and other properties were investigated through a field survey and interviews with their residents. Merged temples of various shapes and degrees are generated through a combination of extrinsic development pressure and intrinsic characteristics of Hindu temples, their continuity, and their immobility, in the urban space which has historically accumulated numerous temples. In its formative process, the “moderate” plasticity of the Hindu temple building works effectively as a medium, and covering the top of the temple with new construction is carefully avoided.