CHENNAI: Space and sanctity will form the crux of scholar Amaladass Anand's lecture demonstration on Friday, as he delves into the Portuguese, Gothic and neo-Gothic styles of churches in the city as part of the Madras Week celebrations.

Anand, professor emeritus of philosophy and religion, Loyola College, says he will begin with the churches built in the Portuguese style which include San Thome Basilica, De Monte Church, St Roque Church, St Thomas Mount and the Little Mount churches.

"I will also look at the churches that were built in the 19th century and have new-Gothic influences, but also bear influences from Indian architecture," says Anand, citing the St Andrews Church as an example of this style.

"When the British wanted to build churches in Chennai in the same style as those in England, there was opposition from several quarters, which was why the churches in Chennai have local architectural influences," says Anand, who co-authored the book 'Christian Themes in Indian Art: From the Mogul Times Till Today' in 2012.

"While on the one hand, I will be looking at the architecture, on the other I will also be focusing on the impact style and space has on spirituality. Some people look at churches as mere decorated auditoriums but that is not how it should be," says Anand, who will be speaking between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, at Dhyana Ashram.

"I will be looking at the role aesthetics play on our minds. Did the architect use geometrical proportions to signify God as a God of order? I am also looking at the role of furniture in the church too, and its impact," says Anand.