Imperial Style Architecture: Slave Dynasty, Khilji Dynasty, Tughlaq Dynasty

Introduction

Imperial Style flourished under various dynasties that ruled during the Sultanate period, and each ruler imparted certain characteristics of his own.

Evolution of Imperial Architecture in Medieval India

• Slave Dynasty: The style of architecture during this period is known as the Mamluk style of architecture.
  • Most of the constructions during the period were remodeling of the existing religious structures.
  • The tomb of Balban was adorned with the first true arch.
  • Qutub Minar, Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in Delhi, Arhai-din-ka-jhonpra in Ajmer etc., were other structures of this period.
• Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque: Qutub-ud-din Aibak built the Mosque around 1197 AD.

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Qutub Minar It is divided into five-storey buildings initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and later completed by Iltutmish and Feroze Shah Tughlaq. It came to be associated with the Saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bhaktiyar Kaki. Feroz Shah Tughlaq (1351- 88) rebuilt its two storeys.  It is the highest stone tower in India. The minar is a mix of polygonal and circular shapes. It is largely built of red and buff sandstone with some use of marble in the upper stories.  It is characterized by highly decorated balconies and bands of inscriptions intertwined with foliated designs.

Khilji Dynasty Architecture: Red Sandstone Marvels and Seljuk Influence

• They ruled from 1290 AD to 1320 AD and established the Seljuk style of architecture.
  • Mortar began to be used prominently as a cementing agent.
  • Characteristics: Khilji architecture is characterised by its use of red sandstone and arcuate style relieved by marble, recessed arches beneath the squinch, perforated windows, a large dome, and a genuine arch in the shape of a pointed horseshoe.
  • Examples: Alai Darwaza by Ala-ud-din Khilji, Siri Fort etc.

Tughlaq Dynasty Architecture: Strength and Innovation in Stone

•  The focus was more on the strength of the building and less emphasis on decoration. 
  • It introduced a style of construction known as ‘batter’, which was characterised by sloping walls to give more strength, as seen in the tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq.
  • Features: Their features include the use of stone rubble as the principal building material, the experimental use of the four-centred arch (Arch-Beam combination is a hallmark of the Tughlaq style), the emergence of a pointed dome and octagonal plan, in the tombs, the introduction of encaustic tiles as an element of decoration in the panels of the buildings. 
  • Examples: The cities of Tughlaqabad, Jahapanah and Ferozabad are examples of Tughlaq construction.

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Lodi Dynasty Architecture: Embracing Simplicity and Innovation in Delhi

• A large number of tombs were built in and around Delhi without any lavish decorations. These mausoleums were designed on an octagonal plan.
  • Double domes were introduced, which consisted of a hollow dome inside the top dome.
  • Sikander Lodi’s tomb (Delhi) was the first garden tomb built in India.

Conclusion

• Imperial style epitomizes the magnificence and authority of ruling elites throughout history, leaving enduring legacies in architectural landmarks and artistic masterpieces that continue to inspire awe and admiration.

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