South Indian Heritage: Exploring The Diversity Of Art, Architecture, Language And Cuisine

India has a unique mix of cultures, stemming from the different states and their traditions. It is said that once you step in India, the cuisine, dressing, art, language, etc. changes every 100 kms. Furthermore, India’s culture is widely categorised into North Indian and South Indian cultures, where eastern and western regions play a minor role. Tripbeam is here to tell you about it all. And if you want to experience it in person, book last minute flights from Canada to India and come right away!

South Indian Heritage: Discovering The Diversity Of Art, Architecture, Language And Cuisine

The Southern Indian culture encompasses Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu along with the Union territories of Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Although mostly considered a myth, south Indians are said to descend from the Dravidian race.

Even though the Indian land has undergone many changes over the years, south Indians have always stuck strong and true to their roots and culture. Many cultural aspects like art, architecture, dance and language flourished during the ruling period of Pandyas, Cholas, Pallavas, Chalukyas, Satavahanas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara, and more.

Art and Architecture as a window to the soul of south Indian culture

Over the years, south India has amassed a wide variety of art pieces and works which signify different eras of rule. It boasts a great interest in art and architecture, clearly visible in its old monuments, forts, temples and sightseeing places of visit. The Dravidian style of architecture has also evolved accordingly and became renowned in the world for its intricacy. Visit and feel the difference of the south Indian soul by getting cheap flights from Calgary to Mumbai with Tripbeam right away.

The temple architecture follows Vastu Shastra principles along with elaborate sculptures, carvings and rock – cut caves depicting various imagery. Popular temples include Mahabalipuram, Lepakshi, Thanjavur, Hampi, Madurai, Warangal, Halebidu, Pattadakal, Belur and many more.

When it comes to art, south Indian artworks include many kinds of Thanjavur paintings, Mysore paintings, bronze castings, Bidri artworks, Kathakali masks, fine embroidery, Budithi brassware, silver filigree work, pottery, ivory craft, stone carvings, coconut shell and coir products, bamboo handicrafts and sandalwood carvings.

Language of south India

The 4 main Dravidian languages used in south India are Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. These are spoken in different states, as listed below.

• Tamil: Tamil Nadu
• Telugu: Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
• Kannada: Karnataka
• Malayalam: Kerala

Some people in south India also converse in Tulu and Kodava in a few regions. It is important to note that there are several dialects and sub – dialects of each language. It clearly shows southern India’s deep contribution to the Indian linguistic diversity.

Cuisine of South Indian heritage

South Indians have a high tolerance for spice and love rice. So, rice became a staple food in their diet along with meat and seafood dishes. We also need to point out that most of their cuisine is easy on the stomach and great as breakfast items (such as idli, dosa and vada). They are healthy, nutritious and filling. And filter kaapi (coffee) needs no introduction at all.

Telangana cuisine features the world – famous Hyderabadi Biryani, while Tamil Nadu’s idli, sambhar, dosa are popular all across the world. Malabar cuisine has extensive use of coconuts while Andhra cuisine is spicy for regular Indian standards. Traditionally, all the food is served on a clean, fresh banana leaf and people sit cross – legged on the floor to eat with their hands.

Conclusion

South India is a large culture that can only be understood when you experience it personally. Volumes would be written about it but they can never compare to real memories that you can have of the place. To best experience it all, we recommend visiting India by getting cheap flight tickets to India from Canada with us. Explore now!

Also Read: Exploring India via Literature: Must-Read Indian Books for the Traveler’s Backpack