Social Studies

South Asia art, architecture, and culture is a broad term that encompasses the many diverse countries of the region, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Each of these countries, and the cultures and ethnicities that inhabit them, have their own distinct art and architecture styles. This region has a rich and colorful history of art and architecture, many of which were created for religious, commemorative, or ritualistic purposes. Examples of South Asian art include sculptures and medallions of gods and goddesses, religious paintings and murals, colorful textile art, woodwork, stone and ivory carvings, and intricate metalwork. Examples of South Asian architecture include ancient religious sites such as Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, and Islamic mosques, as well as royal palaces, fortresses and gardens, and traditional village dwellings. All of these give insight into the vibrant culture of the people of South Asia, who have been creating and sharing art and architecture for centuries.