UNITED STATES, August 2, 2025 (The Print by Swaminathan Venkataraman): In 1025 CE, Emperor Rajendra Chola launched a successful naval campaign against the Srivijaya Empire in Southeast Asia, marking a pinnacle of Chola military and maritime power. Yet, this historical moment serves merely as a backdrop to a deeper narrative—one that connects the Chola legacy to sage Ramana Maharshi and the rise of Tamil temple architecture in North America. This link is forged through Vaidyanatha Sthapati, a direct descendant of the architect of the great Brihadeeswara Temple. In the 1930s, despite extreme poverty and a declining demand for temple builders, Vaidyanatha undertook the construction of a shrine at Sri Ramanasramam, inspired by deep spiritual commitment and support from Ramana Maharshi himself. The Maharshi also played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Vaidyanatha’s son, Ganapati, subtly guiding him to continue the family tradition alongside modern engineering education.

Ganapati Sthapati went on to revive and globalize the ancient craft of temple architecture. With encouragement and early mentorship from the Maharshi and later institutional support, he not only led the Government College of Architecture and Sculpture in Mahabalipuram but also pioneered Tamil-style temples across the globe. These temples adapted to local building codes and integrated diverse Indian traditions, creating a unified spiritual space for diaspora communities. Ganapati’s efforts ensured the continuity of a millennia-old tradition, aligning it with modern engineering and international standards. In doing so, he left a profound cultural legacy that arguably rivals the military exploits of the Chola Empire, demonstrating that the endurance and spread of sacred art can be as impactful as any conquest.

Much more at source.
https://theprint.in/opinion/connects-raja-raja-chola-ramana-maharshi-hindu-temples-north-america/2710943/

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