Page 146 - Design Thinking C11

Let us look at three major systems of proportion that were commonly used in Indian design:
1. The Golden Ratio (≈ 1.618)
The Golden Ratio is a special number that creates a sense of natural beauty
and balance. It appears in many places in nature — like the arrangement
of petals in a flower, spiral shells, and even the proportions of the human
body. In Indian architecture, the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu
(built over 1,000 years ago during the Chola dynasty) is believed to follow
the Golden Ratio in the relationship between the height of its central tower
(vimana) and the base structure.
This ratio gives the temple a sense of grandeur and perfect balance, which makes it feel both majestic and
harmonious to anyone who looks at it — even without knowing the math behind it!
2. The 5:4 Ratio

This proportion means the length is just a little more than the width. It may
seem simple, but it was deeply meaningful. Ancient Indian civilizations, like
the Harappans, used this in city planning — for example, at Dholavira.

It was also used in Vedic fire altars, showing how early Indians applied
math in both everyday life and spiritual practices — long before modern
urban design came into existence.
3. The Talamana System ( )

This was a body-based measurement system used by Indian
sculptors. Artists used parts of the human body — like the width of a
finger (angula) or the span of a hand — as measuring units.
This system helped ensure that statues were realistic and well-
proportioned. A sculpture of a god or goddess wasn’t just about
looks — it followed precise rules to reflect balance, movement, and
spiritual symbolism.

Showing Hierarchy Through Design
Hierarchy in design refers to the deliberate organization of elements to signify their importance, ensuring that
the most critical components capture the viewer’s attention first. This principle is universal across cultures and
disciplines, from architecture to graphic design, and is achieved through techniques like placement, scale,
contrast, and ornamentation. Below are examples to illustrate hierarchy in classical Indian design:
Buddhist Stupas: The Harmika (square railing atop the dome) and Chattra (umbrella-like spire) are the most
sacred elements, positioned at the highest point. Their vertical prominence symbolizes spiritual ascent (e.g.,
Sanchi Stupa).

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