One app for all your study abroad needs
The Delhi Sultanate had a profound impact on the architectural style of India. They ruled over Delhi, and their architecture was heavily inspired by Islamic and Indian traditions. This period of history is an important aspect of competitive exams such as UPSC. This section will provide an overview of Delhi Sultanate architecture, helping students prepare for the art and culture section.
Table of Contents
Delhi Sultanate
The Delhi Sultanate ruled over a large part of the Indian subcontinent from 1206 and 1526. This time made great contributions to art and architecture. This period saw the rise of Indo-Islamic architecture. The art and architecture of the Delhi Sultanate can be divided into phases based on the dynasties that ruled during this time period. These dynasties include the Mamluks (Slave Dynasty), Khaljis, Tughlaqs, Sayyids, and Lodis. Each dynasty left its mark on the architecture of Delhi and the surrounding areas.
Features of Delhi Sultanate Architecture
The Delhi Sultanate architecture is characterized by some of its features which are mentioned here:
- Indo-Islamic Fusion: The architecture of the Delhi Sultanate combined elements of both Indian and Islamic styles. The artists combined Islamic domes, arches, and minarets with traditional Indian themes and techniques.
- Arches and Domes: Arches and domes were often used in architecture throughout the historical period. The domes were often hemispherical and decorated with intricate designs, which added aesthetic value to the monument.
- Red Sandstone and Marbles: The widespread use of red sandstone and marbles gave the structure of that time period a distinct appearance. These materials were often carved and covered with decorative patterns.
- Decorative Elements: These structures included geometric and floral patterns, as well as calligraphy, in their stone and tile work. The detailed work added a spiritual depth to the construction.
Also Read: Who Founded The Delhi Sultanate? – Leverage Edu
Delhi Sultanate and its Architecture
Delhi sultanate has witnessed various dynasties and rulers who left their mark through architecture. These dynasties are mentioned below with some of their notable art and architecture.
Mamluk Dynasty (1206-1290)
The Mamluk dynasty was the first of the Delhi Sultanate, and its architecture established a distinct style. The Qutb Complex in Delhi is the most notable architectural achievement of this era.
Qutub Minar: This monument was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and completed by his successor, Iltutmish. It is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architectural style. The Qutub Minar, with its red sandstone, carvings, and inscriptions, stands at 73 metres.
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: This mosque was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, and is one of the earliest examples of Muslim architecture in India. The mosque combines pillars from demolished Hindu and Jain temples, resulting in a hybrid of Islamic and indigenous designs.
Khalji Dynasty (1290-1320)
The Khalji Dynasty architecture is distinguished by a more grandiose structure with an emphasis on decorative elements, reflecting their imperial goals.
Alai Darwaza: Alauddin Khalji built this monument in 1351. This is the gateway to the Qutub complex, with a dome, marble decoration, and intricate geometric designs. It displays the advanced mechanical and creative skills of this era.
Siri Fort: Alauddin constructed this fort between 1297 and 1307. The primary goal of this fort is to guard against Mongol invasions of India and Delhi.
Also Read: How Many Dynasties Were In the Delhi Sultanate?
Tughlaq Dynasty (1320-1414)
The Tuglaq Dynasty introduced a more militaristic architectural style to the region of Delhi. It focused on functionality and fortification.
Tughlaqabad Fort: This fort was built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq. The construction of this fort shows the dynasty’s emphasis on military architecture. The fort’s sloping walls were meant for defence, but it also included palaces, mosques, and a network of underground tunnels.
Firoz Shah Kotla Fort: This fort was constructed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. This fort features a mosque, palaces, and an Ashokan pillar transported from Topra. The construction stands out by its simplicity, minimalist decorating, and emphasis on efficiency above aesthetics.
Sayyid Dynasty (1414-1451)
The Sayyid Dynasty‘s architectural style was more modest, with a focus on tombs and mausoleums. This style was more a refinement of previous designs, with a greater emphasis on symmetry.
Tomb of Muhammad Shah: This structure is located in the Lodi Garden. This mausoleum is an octagonal structure with a central dome, with a focus on symmetry and decoration.
Tomb of Sultan Mubarak Shah: This tomb popularly known as the Kotla Mubarak Complex, is a beautiful architectural masterpiece. Its octagonal courtyard and three gates were built during Mubarak Shah’s era.
Lodi Dynasty (1451-1526)
The Lodi Dynasty is renowned for its exquisite and advanced architectural style, which paved the way for Mughal architecture.
Shish Gumbad: Shish Gumbad is located in Lodi Garden and is decorated with blue tiles and beautiful carvings. Its architectural style combines Persian and Indian influences. Its symmetrical layout and decorative themes are characteristic of the Lodi Dynasty.
Bara Gumbad: This complex includes a tomb, mosque, and gateway that showcase the architectural style of the Lodi Dynasty. The monument is made of stone and plaster, with decorative and complex details.
Also Read: How did Qutbuddin Aibak die?
Artistic Contribution of Delhi Sultanates
The Delhi Sultanate’s architecture extended beyond their craft but also included calligraphy and meta work which demonstrated their cultural significance.
- Calligraphy: Islamic calligraphy flourished during this time period, and it may be found in architecture, coins, and manuscripts. The use of beautiful scripts such as Kufic and Naskh provided spiritual and aesthetic value to the architectural aspects.
- Metalwork and Textiles: Artisans from the Delhi Sultanate created metalwork for weapons, utensils, and jewellery. Textile manufacture also increased and advanced, influenced by Persian and Central Asian techniques.
The art and architecture of the Delhi Sultanate are an important aspect of Indian history. This period was distinguished by the combination of Islamic and Indian architectural styles. It resulted in a rich and diversified architectural history. The architecture of the Delhi Sultanate can be observed in the standing monuments that symbolise the cultural and artistic achievements of this significant era.
Related Posts
FAQs
The Delhi Sultanate ruled over a large part of the Indian subcontinent from 1206 and 1526. This time made great contributions to art and architecture. This period saw the rise of Indo-Islamic architecture. The Delhi Sultanate had a profound impact on the architectural style of India. They ruled over Delhi, and their architecture was heavily inspired by Islamic and Indian traditions.
The Delhi Sultanate architecture is characterized by some of its features such as the use of indo-islamic fusion, the use of red sandstones and marble, arches and domes, and the use of decorative elements such as geometric and floral patterns.
Qutub Minar is the oldest structure in Delhi. This monument was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and completed by his successor, Iltutmish. It is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architectural style. The Qutub Minar, with its red sandstone, carvings, and inscriptions, stands at 73 metres.
This was all about the “Delhi Sultanate Architecture”. For more such informative blogs, check out our UPSCExams Section and Study Material Section, or you can learn more about us by visiting our Indian exams page.