Regional and Modern Indian Architecture

Art and Culture

Regional Architecture

Jaunpur School of Architecture (Sharqi Style)

The Jaunpur School of Architecture, also known as the Sharqi style, flourished during the rule of the Sharqi dynasty in Northern India. It combined Islamic architectural elements with local artistic sensibilities. One of the most iconic examples is the Atala Mosque, completed by Ibrahim Shah Sharqi. This mosque exemplifies the architectural maturity achieved by the Sharqi builders, especially in terms of its proportions and ornamental features. Sultan Ibrahim Sharqi also erected the Jhanjhari Mosque in honor of Hazrat Said Sadr Jahan Ajmali. Another notable monument is the Jami Masjid, built by Hussain Shah, which remains a landmark in Jaunpur’s religious and architectural landscape. The emphasis was on strong, massive forms and relatively minimal ornamentation compared to later styles.

Bengal School of Architecture

The Bengal School of Architecture is characterized primarily by its extensive use of bricks due to the scarcity of stone in the region. The structures often feature terracotta decorations and curved roofs inspired by indigenous bamboo and thatch huts. One of the most prominent monuments of this school is the Adina Masjid at Pandua, built by Sikandar Shah. This mosque is massive in scale and exhibits the stylistic transition from traditional Indian to Islamic architectural norms. Yusuf Shah later contributed to the Bengal school by constructing the Lotan Masjid at Gaur. The style is significant for blending Islamic aesthetics with vernacular building traditions.

Malwa School of Architecture (Pathan School)

The Malwa School of Architecture is known for its innovative use of colored stones and marbles. It is also referred to as the Pathan School, with structures often displaying a fusion of local and foreign influences. Large windows became a staple feature, possibly due to the exposure to European architectural practices. Man-made reservoirs called ‘baulis’ were another hallmark of this style, emphasizing the importance of water management. The batter system introduced by the Tughlaqs further enhanced the structural integrity of buildings. Noteworthy examples include the Rani Roopmati Pavilion, Jahaz Mahal, and Ashrafi Mahal. These buildings not only reflect the architectural advancements but also the aesthetic refinement of the Malwa region.

Bijapur School of Architecture

The Bijapur School of Architecture developed under the patronage of the Adil Shahi dynasty. This style is renowned for its bold and majestic designs, marked by the use of bulbous domes, three-arched facades, and elaborate cornices. A key structural element was the reinforcement using iron clamps and thick mortar plaster. Walls were frequently adorned with detailed sculptures, adding to the visual richness. Gol Gumbaz, the most iconic structure from this school, is celebrated for its massive dome, which remains one of the largest in the world. This school embodies a unique synthesis of Persian, Dravidian, and local influences.

Gujarat School of Architecture

Ahmedabad became a major architectural center under the Gujarat School, especially after its foundation by Ahmed Shah in 1414 AD. The Jami Masjid of Ahmedabad, built by Ahmed Shah, showcases the blend of Hindu craftsmanship with Islamic structural norms. Sultan Mahmud Begarha later enhanced the architectural landscape by constructing a palace citadel at Champaner. The Gujarat style is distinguished by its intricate jali (lattice) work, ornate columns, and a harmonious balance between structure and decoration. The integration of local artisans into mosque-building led to a unique hybrid aesthetic.

Bahmani School of Architecture

The Bahmani School of Architecture represents the southern evolution of Indo-Islamic styles. Cities like Nauraspur and Hyderabad were pivotal in this development. Nauraspur was founded by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur, while Hyderabad was established by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah. A hallmark of this school is the monumental Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur, noted for its massive dome. Ahmednagar, another architectural hub, was founded by Ahmed Shah of the Nizam Shahi dynasty. The Bahmani style incorporated Persian architectural ideas into the Deccan milieu, producing grand, durable, and aesthetically pleasing edifices.

Modern Indian Architecture

Portuguese Influence

The Portuguese brought with them the Iberian architectural traditions and left a lasting impact on the architectural identity of coastal India. Their constructions often featured ‘patio homes’ and elements of Baroque architecture, aiming for drama and theatricality. The Se Cathedral in Goa, built in 1619 AD, is a fine example of this style. Portuguese churches in Goa and Daman emphasize symmetry, ornamentation, and multi-tiered facades. They also contributed significantly to the proliferation of Christian religious architecture in India.

French Influence

The French influence on Indian architecture was most evident in the urban planning of their colonies. They introduced Cartesian grid layouts and focused on simplicity and functionality. Puducherry and Chandernagore stand as prime examples of French colonial urban design. Unlike the ornate Portuguese style, the French developed a faceless architectural approach with minimal ornamentation. Churches like the Sacred Heart Church in Puducherry and Chandannagar echo French ecclesiastical architecture, blending subtle elegance with spatial precision.

Indo-Gothic Style

The Indo-Gothic style emerged during the British colonial period, combining Gothic Revival elements with Indian sensibilities. Buildings were characterized by pointed arches, large stained-glass windows, thin walls, and cruciform ground plans, especially for churches. The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata and Gateway of India in Mumbai exemplify this grandiose and eclectic style. The blend of Gothic scale with Indian decorative motifs created a distinct architectural language that came to symbolize the colonial era.

Neo-Roman Style

The Neo-Roman style in India was marked by anonymous and monumental constructions with circular layouts and domed roofs. Western architectural designs were infused with Oriental motifs, resulting in hybrid aesthetics. The concept of the upturned dome, visible in structures like the Supreme Court and Rashtrapati Bhavan, became a hallmark. This style emphasized imperial grandeur and institutional dominance, making it suitable for government and administrative buildings.

Laurie Baker and Sustainable Architecture

Laurie Baker, a British-born Indian architect, revolutionized the concept of low-cost housing in India. Often referred to as the ‘Architect of the Poor’, he emphasized resource-efficient construction using locally available materials. His concept of filler slab construction significantly reduced the use of cement and steel. Baker’s designs prioritized ventilation, natural lighting, and thermal comfort, making them ideal for India’s climate. His architectural philosophy also inspired generations of sustainable architects who sought to balance affordability with ecological responsibility.

For more related content, explore the links below:

PDF File:

No PDF attached

Subject: Art and Culture

← Back
Chat on WhatsApp