All You Need to Know About Modern Indian Architecture

Modern Indian architecture is basically the architectural style that emerged after the fall of the Mughals and was mostly influenced by Europeans starting in the late 18th century. The primary reason the Europeans arrived here was for trade. They built industries and homes in the European style and founded various other places. As they grew stronger every day, they built forts and imposed churches and other houses of worship.We’ll talk about modern Indian architecture here, which can help you prepare for the UPSC IAS Exam and different competitive exams.

Features of Modern Indian Architecture

Let’s examine some of the many characteristics of modern Indian architecture.

• Several Designs: The architectural style of British colonialism was the result of several historical and cultural influences.
• Inspired by the Past: They drew inspiration from Roman and Greek architectural designs.
• Indian and Islamic Elements: To produce one-of-a-kind buildings, British architects fused Islamic and Indian architectural styles with their own.
• Large Porches and Balconies: These structures included sizable outdoor areas for ventilation and shade.
• High Ceilings and Unique Windows: To help keep the buildings cool, the windows featured unique slats. The ceilings were also high.

Examples: Modern Indian Architecture

Let’s examine some of the most well-known examples of modern Indian architecture.

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Lotus Temple, New Delhi

A well-known example of modern Indian architecture is the Lotus Temple, which was created by Fariborz Sahba in 1986 and is among the most popular destinations worldwide.

• Inspired by the national flower of India, the Lotus Temple is located in New Delhi.
• The temple was created by the architect in three distinct leaf forms, each of which is a free-standing, marble-clad structure.
• The temple is divided into 9 sides by the 9 access leaves. The secondary spaces are covered by outer leaves.
• Worship areas are located within the inner nine leaves, and they appear to be opening up from the top. 

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

The stunning white marble Victoria Memorial in Kolkata was constructed as a tribute to Queen Victoria.

• In remembrance of Queen Victoria, who was influential in the history of India, it was constructed between 1906 and 1921.
• The memorial is designed in a unique way that combines British and Indian elements. The main dome resembles the well-known Taj Mahal.
• The memorial’s expansive grounds add to its beauty and grandeur.
• There’s a museum inside with artefacts from the British era in India. It aids in the education of people about Indian history.

Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi

The President of India resides and works at Rashtrapati Bhavan. It’s a renowned colonial structure.Modern Indian architecture blended many elements and created a striking effect. Structures like Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Victoria Memorial demonstrate the historical inventiveness of the era.

• Sir Edwin Lutyens, a well-known British architect, created the structure.
• Within the Rashtrapati Bhavan are numerous buildings. It appears exquisite and majestic.
• The structure features large, open spaces and a unique equilibrium. It demonstrates the British sense of importance and might.
• The Rashtrapati Bhavan is surrounded by breathtaking grounds. They have flowers, fountains, and well-maintained lawns.

Indian Influence On Modern Indian Architecture Buildings

Buildings from the past displayed influences from several cultures, including colonialism. From the 18th to the 20th centuries, India was controlled by the British. The buildings constructed at this time were heavily influenced by Indian architectural forms. 

• The use of traditional styles in modern Indian architecture is one important aspect of it. One such example is the Karnataka state’s Mysore Palace. It is rich in appearance, elaborate Indian architecture and was constructed in the Indo-Saracenic style. The palace features vibrant paintings, domes, and lovely sculptures. Modern Indian architecture is a fusion of British and Indian styles from that era.
• Indo-Saracenic architecture is another important aspect of modern Indian architecture. A notable example is the Gateway of India located in Mumbai. It was created in 1924. It features decorations, lofty spires, and arches. It is a popular tourist destination nowadays and a significant historical icon.
• Modern Indian architecture also incorporates influences of Islam, Hinduism, and Europe. Kolkata’s St. Paul’s Cathedral is a prime example of this combination. It was constructed in the early 20th century and combined Indian art with Gothic Revival style. The windows display beautiful images from the life of Jesus Christ. Indian motifs and elements, such as the lotus blossom and the Bengali-style chhatri, are also used in the design.

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Indian Architectural Styles and Railways

The architecture in India evolved when trains were introduced. Railway stations gained significance and had different architecture. They created stunning buildings by mixing Indian and British architectural styles.

• The stations had arched entrances, spacious front rooms, and attractive decorations. They used attractive columns and patterns.
• The Bombay Victoria Terminus, currently known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, is one well-known station. With its colourful windows, it looks fantastic.
• Howrah Station in Kolkata is another awesome station. Its lovely domes and arches combine Islamic and Gothic architectural elements.
• These stations were designed to be eye-catching. They represented development and modernism.
• The beauty and history of British India are reflected in these stations. They serve as a reminder of bygone eras and the ways in which towns and architectural styles evolved.

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