Context:- The evolution of Indo-Islamic Architecture post the 12th century AD saw the infusion of local characteristics from the regional kingdoms of Bengal, Gujarat, Jaunpur, Golconda, Malwa, and the Deccan. This amalgamation contributed to the emergence of a distinctive provincial architectural style. Mortar played a crucial role as a binding agent, facilitating the creation of arches and domes within this architectural framework.

History of Islamic Architecture

The earliest examples of Islamic architecture use the horseshoe-shaped arch and geometric decorations. Drawing from the style of the first Muslim place of worship, the Prophet Muhammad’s home. The hypostyle mosque developed primarily in Iraq and Egypt and spread from there.

Delhi Sultanate

The arrival of Turks in the thirteenth century introduced new architectural techniques that mixed styles from Persia, Arabia, and Central Asia. These buildings, including palaces, mosques, and tombs, integrated features like domes, arches, and minarets, blending them with indigenous architectural elements. This fusion created a unique synthesis in architecture, achieved by employing skilled local Indian craftsmen who had already erected stunning structures.

The earliest marvels of this era include the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Qutub Minar in Delhi. The latter, standing at 70 meters tall, boasts intricate calligraphic engravings on its five-tiered, tapering structure. Ala-ud-din Khilji expanded the Quwat-ul-Islam mosque and constructed the Alai Darwaza gateway. His notable architectural endeavor, Hauz Khas in Delhi, served as a ‘hydraulic structure’.

Tomb structures like those of Mohammad Tughlaq, Firoz Tughlaq, and the forts of Tughlaqabad emerged during this period. Additionally, under Afghan rule, tombs such as those of Ibrahim Lodi in Delhi and Shershah in Sasaram were built.

The architectural milieu of this era reflects the adaptation and utilization of indigenous styles. Due to threats from Mongol invasions from the north, buildings of this period were constructed to be robust, resilient, and pragmatic.

Regional Kingdoms

With the emergence of regional kingdoms in Bengal, Gujarat, and the Deccan, distinctive architectural styles blossomed. Ahmadabad’s Jama Masjid, Sadi Saiyyad Mosque, and shaking towers exemplify this regional architecture.

Mandu in central India saw the creation of structures like the Jama Masjid, Hindola Mahal, and Jahaz Mahal.In the Deccan, rulers erected various architectural marvels. These included the Jama Masjid at Gulbarga, Mahmud Gawan’s Madarsa in Bidar, Ibrahim Rauza, and Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur. These structures boasted diverse designs distinct from the buildings of northern India.

The architecture of Bengal showcased unique traits, displaying oblong structures and distinctive roof construction. These characteristics are evident in structures such as the Adina mosque and Jallal-ud-din’s tomb in Pandua.

In Jaunpur, the Atala mosque, crafted by the Sharqui rulers, boasted a colossal screen covering the dome. The marble tomb of Hoshang Shah in Malwa showcased exquisite yellow and black marble inlay work.

The Bahamani sultans adopted styles from Persia, Syria, Turkey, and southern Indian temples. The Jama Masjid at Gulbarga, featuring a covered courtyard adorned with numerous domes, remains an exemplary piece.

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Mughals

The advent of the Mughals heralded a new architectural era, marking the pinnacle of Indo-Islamic architecture. Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, constructed with red sandstone, stands as a precursor to the Taj Mahal, showcasing a garden setting surrounding the tomb.

Akbar’s forts in Agra and Fatehpur Sikri, including the Buland Darwaza, reflect the grandeur of the mighty Mughal Empire. Structures like the tomb of Salim Chishti, Jodha Bai’s Palace, and Birbal’s House in Fatehpur Sikri exhibit a blend of Persian and Indian architectural elements.

During Jehangir’s reign, Akbar’s Mausoleum at Sikandra and the exquisite tomb of Itimad-ud-daula, entirely crafted in marble, were built. Iconic structures like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid in Delhi, and the Taj Mahal showcase Shahjahan’s extensive use of marble, intricate inlay work, arches, and minarets. These elements are evident, portraying the epitome of Mughal architecture and highlighting the distinctive style adopted by Shahjahan.

The Taj Mahal, Shahjahan’s tribute to his wife, stands adorned with a central dome, elegant minarets, intricate inlay work, and sprawling gardens around the main edifice.

The Mughal architectural style had a profound influence on later buildings. It integrated ancient Indian styles by incorporating courtyards, pillars, and sculptures of living beings such as elephants, lions, peacocks, and birds. Notably, these elements also adorned brackets for the first time.

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