Islamic Architecture: Elegant fusion of indigenous and Foreign Rules

Islamic Architecture in India is an elegant blend of Persian and Turkish architectural styles that developed in the richness of India mingling well with the local indigenous architectural styles.

Islamic Architecture was introduced due the arrival of Muslim Invasion, and flourished in the subcontinent during the Delhi Sultanate and as the Mughal empire grew its territory.

And thus, many monuments were created that have awe inspiring beauty, most of them include mosques, tombs, and palaces.

Evolution of Islamic Architecture in India

Islamic Architecture is very new to India and can be traced back till 12th century when the Delhi Sultanate was established. This architectural style over the time evolved as it adapted to the local influences and thus developed for itself a unique beauty and features.

Arches and Domes

While in India beam and lintel was a traditional method followed especially in the construction of the temples, Islamic Architecture replaced this with forming Domes and Arches, the ogee arches became the indigenous feature of the Indo-Islamic tradition.

Geometric and Calligraphic Designs

Architecture is a reflection of people’s belief system, while Hindu architecture focused on figurative carvings, given their acceptance of idol worship, Islamic architecture adorned itself with geometric patterns, arabesques, and Quranic calligraphy, as for them figures and idols are a prohibited belief.

Minarets

Tall slender towers were an intimate feature for mosques, a functional building used to call to prayer.

Gardens and Water Features

This can be called as an influence of Persian tradition where Charbagh (four garden) were decorated around popular tombs like the Taj Mahal and the Humayun’s Tomb.

Large Open Courtyards

Mosques are places where congregational prayers are held and thus these were to be a functional space, keeping in mind the accommodation capability for the everyday crowd.

Notable Examples of Islamic Architecture in India

India is home to the most iconic Islamic monuments that attract tourism and speaks of the ancient grandeur. Although most of them stand in Delhi as memorial ornaments of the Delhi Sultanate.

Qutub Minar (Delhi,

Very popularly heard, this tall monument was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and later by Iltutmish in completion, the Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Made of red sandstone and marble.

Alai Darwaza

Alai Darwaza was constructed by Alauddin Khalji, this is actually a gateway to the Qutub Minar complex. This monument is fascinated with geometric patterns and inlay work.

Humayun’s Tomb

Empress Bega Begum, commissioned for the construction of Humayun’s Tomb, well adorned with Charbagh layout and a massive double dome.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is the most celebrated Islamic architecture, popular worldwide. It was built in the memory of Shah Jahan’s second wife Mumtaz Mahal.

There are other Famous Islamic Monuments as well that portrays extraordinary work and beauty. Representing the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Indian subcontinent.

Such magnificent structures captivate visitors and tourists across the globe.