Temple Architecture

Menu

Sri. K.P.Umapathy Acharya

The Viswakarma Institute of Sacred Architecture is a unique institution founded by Sri.K.P.Veezhinatha Acharya and Sri. K.P.Umapathy Acharya both brothers are hail from the illustrious family of Veda and Silpa Sastra – Vastu Sastra scholars, Temple-architects and sculptors, with a vision to explore, enhance and preserve the ancient sacred architecture, iconography and painting of India.

60/80, Mettu Street,

Kumbakonam-612 001,

Tamilnadu. (India)
Mobile : +91 9944532723, +91 6380111878
E-mail : sastra1000@gmail.com

Educational Qualification:

M.A.

Current Positions:

Director, Institute of Sacred Architecture, Kumbakonam

Affiliations & Cultural Involvement:

Sanskar Bharati

  • Member, Kala Dharohar Vibhag, Visheshagna Toli
  • State Coordinator, Kala Dharohar Vibhag, Tamil Nadu

Professional Profile:

A hereditary Sthapati and recognized authority in traditional South Indian temple architecture and sculpture, Shri K. P. Umapathy Acharya has dedicated his life to the preservation and revival of Vedic and Śilpa Śāstra traditions. His work unites scholarship, practice, and community service, ensuring the survival of sacred architectural knowledge for future generations.

Major Contributions:

  • Revived ancient Viśvakarma architectural traditions, preserving authentic ritual and design practices.
  • Led major temple restoration and construction projects across India, maintaining scriptural integrity.
  • Delivered invited lectures and workshops at IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, Amrita University, TEDx, and Indic knowledge forums.
  • Mentored numerous students through Gurukula training, many now practicing as architects and sculptors.
  • Authored and presented research papers and publications integrating Śilpa Śāstra with contemporary education.
  • Revival of Gurukula Tradition: Re-established oral and experiential learning systems in Śilpa Vidyā Gurukulam.
  • Holistic Approach: Combines scriptural interpretation, spiritual understanding, and architectural precision.
  • Scholar-Practitioner: Merges traditional authority with modern dissemination and pedagogy.

Honors & Recognitions:

  • Living Art Treasure Award – Government of Tamil Nadu (2023)
  • Best Artist Award – Government of Tamil Nadu (2005)
  • T.V. Kapali Sastry Award – Sākṣi Trust, Bengaluru (2016)
  • Abhinava Sarvasiddhi Āchārya – Gurushree Manocharya Pratishthan, Badami (2013)
  • Shanta Prasad Award – Crafts Council of India (2008)
  • National Award (Tribhuvana Āchārya) – Conferred by Sri Saraswati Peethadhipati Sri Kalahastendra Swami, Kattapadu, Udupi   (2025)

Books Dedicated to Shri K. P. Umapathy Acharya:

  • Ṛg Veda, Maṇḍala 1 – Ed. Prof. R. L. Kashyap, Sākṣi Trust, Bengaluru (2009)
  • The Architects and Sculptors of Early Chalukya Art – Dr. Sheelakant Pattar, Shilpa Publications, Badami (2014)