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Title

कांच वातायन (Glass Skylight)

4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Rare

Kāñca vātāyana

Glass Skylight

4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
DescriptionKān̄ca Skā'īlā'īṭa (Glass Skylights), or *śīśe kā rośanadāna* in Hindi, are architectural elements for natural lighting. Modern applications extend traditional *jharokha* concepts. The primary material, glass, is derived from silica sand (*bālusikā*) sourced from riverbeds across the Indian subcontinent. Its chemical composition is predominantly SiO2, with additives influencing color and properties. Density ranges from 2.4-2.8 g/cm³ [1]. Tensile strength varies (40-70 MPa) based on processing (tempering, lamination). Thermal conductivity is 0.8-1.0 W/mK. While not prevalent in ancient Indic architecture, glass, known as *kāca* in Sanskrit, was utilized in decorative elements. Modern skylights address energy efficiency through controlled light transmittance (80-90%). Conservation involves addressing weathering, cracking, and ensuring structural integrity. Restoration requires compatible glass types and adherence to heritage guidelines. Future research should focus on bio-based glass alternatives for sustainable construction.
Also Known As
Glass Skylight
Kāñca vātāyana
Glass Skylight
Skylight
Roof Window
शीशे का रोशनदान
कांच का झरोखा
आकाशदीप
तमिल: கண்ணாடி மேல் ஒளிக்கூண்டு
तेलुगु: గాజు స్కైలైట్
कन्नड़: ಗಾಜಿನ ಸ್ಕೈಲೈಟ್
Tags
Glass
Skylight
Roof Window
Natural Light
Modern Architecture
Material ID
INHFMAT-658107131-20-11-25-KY
URIhttps://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/glass-skylights
API Endpoint
https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/glass-skylights
Total Sites1
Primary Sites1
CreatedNovember 20, 2025
Last UpdatedNovember 28, 2025

External References

View on Getty AAT

Material Types

Types
Glass
Glazing

Regions

Regions
India

Historical Context

Time Periods
21st Century

Geographic Sources

Sources
Glass Manufacturing Plants

Properties

Properties
Tensile Strength: 40-70 MPa (depending on type)
Density: 2.4-2.8 g/cm³
Thermal Conductivity: 0.8-1.0 W/mK
Light Transmittance: 80-90%

Common Uses

Uses
Natural Lighting
Architectural Feature
Daylighting

Related Materials

Materials
Aluminum (for framing)
Silicone Sealant

Related Styles

Styles
Modern Architecture

Related Categories

Categories
Modern temples
Community halls

Conservation Notes

Notes
  • Susceptible to cracking from impact or thermal stress
  • Requires periodic cleaning
  • Sealant may degrade over time
  • Potential for condensation

Recommended Sources

TitleTypeNotes
Glass Technology HandbookBookProperties and applications of glass

Heritage Sites (1)

Site NameStatusUsageConfidence
Sri Sivan Temple Singapore
Primary
100%

Frequently Asked Questions