Turmeric Man of Himachal Pradesh

Introduction

The architecture of a specific place is always a result of various factors such as geography, availability of materials and resources, climate, socio-economic conditions, and culture. When we look at Himachal Pradesh, we can see that it has a complex mountainous terrain with valleys and gorges. Due to the harsh conditions, the state relies on indigenous architecture which forms the backbone of its social and cultural setup. The use of indigenous architecture is sustainable as it does not deplete local resources and materials that are readily available are preferred. This type of architecture is also very resilient against earthquakes and requires low maintenance. The state falls under seismic Zones IV and V and is at high risk of earthquakes. However, when designed appropriately, the use of wood assemblies in indigenous Kath Khuni architecture offers a very high strength-to-weight ratio compared to other modern materials. 

KATH KHUNI Architecture of H.P

The state of Himachal Pradesh has a diverse range of elevations, spanning from 450 meters to 6500 meters above the mean sea level. The region stretches from the Shivalik range to the Great Himalayas and, despite its varying topography, displays a relative consistency and homogeneity of traditional construction and materials with slight variations. In the mid and central Himalayas, a unique architecture has extensively developed, which is locally known as kath-khuni construction.

Kath-khuni is a type of construction that is commonly used in the Himalayan region. The buildings are constructed using locally available wood and stone as the primary materials. The term 'Kath-khuni' is derived from two local words, 'kath' and 'kuni'. 'Kath' is a dialectal variation of the Sanskrit word 'kashtth', which means wood, while 'kuni' is another dialectical variation of the Sanskrit word 'kona', meaning an angle or corner. The kath-khuni wall implies that it should have only wood on its corners or angles.

Various versions of this construction method can be seen from region to region. In Uttarakhand, it is known by different names such as kath-kona, kath-ki-kanni, koti banal, which are named after the village where the buildings constructed with traditional architecture remained mostly unharmed during the 1991 Uttarkashi earthquake. This is a traditional technique that uses alternating layers of long, thick wooden logs and stone masonry, which are held in place without using mortar. The technique has been orally and empirically transmitted from one generation to the next through apprenticeships that span a number of years. The technique was devised by keeping the seismic activity, topography, environment, climate, native materials and cultural landscape in mind. Most of the oldest temples in the region are built using this ancient system.

Materials used

The primary construction materials used in this area are wood, mud, and stone. Of all the types of trees available, Kali and Deodar are the most suitable for construction purposes.

Wood

Deodar wood is one of the strongest Indian conifers and is readily available. It provides stability to tall structures when used as beams, posts, door frames, and other elements. Despite being a type of softwood, artisans do not require sophisticated tools to work with it. Additionally, untreated Deodar wood is termite and insect-resistant and can withstand long periods of weathering.

Mud

Mud is widely available and is used for its insulating properties and excellent binding qualities. In traditional Himachal construction, mud is used in two ways: by filling it into wooden forms and then ramming it into place to create walls, or by making sun-dried mud blocks.

Stone

There are two types of stone used in traditional construction in this area. Hardstone is generally used in the walls and foundations of buildings, and it is sourced from local quarries. Slate tiles, a type of metamorphic rock, are used on roofs because they are frost-resistant and provide a moisture barrier.

The construction of houses in many areas is mainly done by hand, often with the help of residents from the same or nearby village. Only special artisans are employed for the construction of temples or religious structures. The entire construction process is carried out manually with limited tools, and the use of power-driven technology is minimal and was introduced only recently. The close interdependence between people, materials, making, and the environment has created a lasting architecture that is specific to the needs, climate, place, and culture. This architecture evokes a special and spiritual sensation that goes beyond materiality.

Construction technique

The construction process usually involves laying courses, where the outer layer is made up of alternating random rubble masonry and wood. The walls are approximately two feet thick and work as a cavity wall. After every course of random rubble, a course of wood (only on the outer side) is placed, which is interlocked by dovetail random intermediate joints to keep the wooden members in place. The courses alternate until the desired ceiling height is reached. The cavity wall of every outer course of wood/stone is filled with smaller stones acting as insulation fillers between the outer layers.

Applications of Kath-Kuni Architecture

Innovative Cattle Rearing

In Kath-Kuni residences, the ground floor serves a dual purpose as a shelter for cattle. This ingenious design leverages the heat generated by the animals, effectively warming the upper layers of the house. The symbiotic relationship between human habitation and livestock rearing showcases the resourcefulness embedded in Kath-Kuni principles.

Strategic Granary Placement

Moving up the structure, the next level functions as a granary, strategically storing food supplies for the harsh winter months. This thoughtful allocation of space ensures that the household is well-prepared to endure the challenges of winter, showcasing the architectural foresight embedded in Kath-Kuni homes.

Cantilevered Living Spaces

The uppermost floors of Kath-Kuni homes are dedicated to residential spaces, ingeniously cantilevered from the main walls. This architectural choice not only optimizes space but also captures sunlight throughout the day. The interplay of light and design creates a harmonious living environment, reflecting the craftsmanship intrinsic to Kath-Kuni Architecture.

Diversity in Roofing Styles

While hip roofs are commonly employed in Kath-Kuni constructions, there are instances where gable roofs with dormer windows are adopted. This diversity in roofing styles adds a layer of architectural richness, showcasing the adaptability of Kath-Kuni principles to different environmental and aesthetic considerations.

Ornamentation and Detailing

Beyond residential spaces, Kath-Kuni Architecture finds expression in temples, where craftsmanship takes center stage. Ornamentation and intricate detailing adorn wooden members, including walls, flooring, windows, doors, and roofs. The temples stand as living testaments to the meticulous craftsmanship inherent in Kath-Kuni design.

Advantages

- Sustainable materials are available locally.

- Suitable for seismic zones.

- Provides insulation during extreme weather conditions.

- Energy efficient.

- Helps sustain the livelihood of people, mostly farmers or craftsmen.

- Employs local craftspeople and keeps the tradition alive.

- Employs unskilled labor in Himachal Pradesh temples.

Disadvantages

- Building materials are not readily available.

- Labor may be scarce.

- High construction cost

- Rising demand for natural products causes fast forest cover loss.

Some Example of Kath Kuni Architecture in H.P

• Trikuta Mata Temple
• Hidimba Temple
• Bhimakali temple
• Naggar Castle
• Darbargadh at Sainj and many more

Why this Intangible Heritage needs to be preserved?

Traditional knowledge used for construction in a particular region has unique advantages that need to be preserved and passed on to future generations.

• Non-rigid construction without cementing material can better withstand the stresses caused by earthquakes, thus preventing large-scale destruction and loss of life.
• Thick walls with air trapped between stones and wood act as insulation, keeping the interiors warm even during colder temperatures in the region. This results in easier and cheaper maintenance.
• All the materials used are easily available and do not deteriorate for a long time, thus saving on wastage and resources.
• This construction method is faster than using slow-setting mortar, and the locals can construct their own houses without external help.
• All materials used are biodegradable, so there is no harmful synthetic trash accumulation.