Drawing inspiration from the sacred geometry of the Mandalas, Homam – ‘an altar of Fire’ – is a contemporary interpretation of a temple derived from the rich cultural practice of Hinduism.
Its plan is divided into 9 quarters of a mandala in 3 x 3 matrix with the fire altar in the central quarter of the square base. For the roof, the rigidity of the nine squares is transformed into a fluid form with the ceiling corresponding in an inverse geometry of the top roof, carved with inscriptions from Hindu scriptures. The double roof is designed to channelize the smoke rising from the fire without letting in the rain.
The idea is to create a holy space that shall contain the mystic energy just the same as was traditionally done using Mandala. The form is conceived as a modern interpretation of the traditional practice. The ground below is like a reflection of the roof, conceived with the idea to combine the five elements with the ground as the earth, the roof as heaven and the ceremonial fire evoking the holy space, connecting the heavens with the earth.
The Homam has been designed through the combination of age-old rituals of Hinduism and a modernistic approach to design. The landscape reciprocates shape of the Altar, seeming to rise from the ground and up towards the heavens. It is a block of power and energy of the purest kind, and the design enunciates that.
Out of all the types of rituals prescribed, Homam is believed to be the quickest way to derive the Deity's grace by evoking the center, the ‘Bindu’ - the focus of energy/Shakti - rejuvenating one’s chakras and revitalizing the body and mind.
Design - Ant Studio
Team: Monish Siripurapu, Astha Chopra, Divya Manaktola
Illustrations and Renders - Sri Design Lab
Team: Shridhar Mamidala, Ram Kumar Bhat, Nagendra Kasireddy