Delhi Sultanate: Architecture, Music and Literature

During the Delhi Sultanate period in India, art and architecture flourished, blending Islamic, Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences. From majestic mosques to intricate tombs, architectural elements like arches, domes, and minarets adorned the landscape, reflecting the cultural diversity of the era. Music, literature, and scholarly pursuits also thrived, with figures like Amir Khusrau shaping musical traditions and scholars like Ziauddin Barani enriching Persian prose.

Cultural Renaissance in the Delhi Sultanate

1. Art and Architecture

• Art and architecture during the Delhi Sultanate period in India exhibited a unique blend of Islamic, Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences. 

• Architectural Elements: Arches, Domes, Tall minarets, and decorative Arabic script. The arches and domes were adapted from Roman architecture. 

• • Although Indians were aware of arches and domes, they didn’t use them extensively.
  • Slab and beam construction method.
  • Turks incorporated geometric and floral designs (Arabesque) and Quranic inscriptions.
• Tughlaq Architecture: Sloping walls, a combination of arch, lintel, and beam principles. 
  • Use of grey sandstone and minimal decoration.

• Lodi Architecture: Elevated buildings, especially tombs, on raised platforms. Some tombs were situated amidst gardens.
  • Example:  the Lodi Gardens in Delhi. 
  • Double Domes: were a distinctive feature of Lodis architecture, 
    • Example: the tomb of Sikandar Lodi.

2. Music

• Contribution of Amir Khusrau:
  • Innovated musical instruments like the tabla and sitar.
  • Also known as the “parrot of India” or “tuti-i-hind“.
  • Played a pivotal role in creating new ragas and qawwalis.
  • He also compiled “Tughlaq Nama” and lauded Kashmir as a paradise on earth. 
• Sufi Influence on Music: Sufi practices, especially the musical Sama, were pivotal in music promotion. 
  • Pir Bhodan: was a renowned musician of his era. 
  • Sarangi and Rabab: were musical instruments invented during this period.
• Consolidation of the Dhrupad: Raja Man Singh Tomar of Gwalior consolidated the Dhrupad style of classical music.
• Translation Patronage: Under the patronage of Firuz Tughlaq, Rag Darpan was translated into Persian.
• Courtly Dance: Dancing also became a significant courtly activity, with performers like Nusrat Khatun (Musician)  and Mihr Afroz (Dancer) during Jalaluddin Khalji’s reign.

3. Literature

• Literary Fusion: Characterised by a literary blend of Persian and Indian influences, with the establishment of Persian as the official language. 
• Flourishing Regional Languages: Regional languages like Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, and Telugu also flourished during this era.

Conclusion 

The Delhi Sultanate era stands as a testament to the flourishing of arts, architecture, music, and literature amidst a diverse cultural landscape. The period’s architectural marvels, musical innovations, and literary masterpieces continue to inspire and captivate audiences, showcasing the enduring legacy of India’s rich cultural heritage during the medieval era.

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