Indo-Islamic Architecture

India was always a treasure trove of architectural beauties found in all the parts of the country. What had started during Indus valley civilization has continued to evolve in subsequent eras as well. Buddhist architectural style, south Indian architectural specimens and Nagara style of architecture bear testimony to the immensely impressive style of architectural variety found in different parts of the country. One of the best phases in the history of Indian architecture was medieval period that witnessed historical developments in the field of architecture. This era saw arrival of Mughals in India and wit that came several factors that completely transformed the landscape of Indian architecture. It did not overhaul the existing style of Indian architecture. It just added a layer or two and made already rich blend even more beautiful.

Muslim Style of Architecture of this period is also termed as the Indo-Islamic Architecture. This style was an aesthetic mix of Indian style and Islamic style. The combination of both parts made the final outcome magnificent. This period is divided into two parts of Mughal architecture and Delhi style. The former style derived its inspiration from Islamic architecture of central Asia whereas the later one was developed by rulers of Delhi.

Both cultures contributed in development of each other. The culmination witnessed in numerous designs across India is nothing but breath taking. The best examples of Indo-Islamic architecture are Fatehpur Sikri, Qutub Minar, Red Fort Delhi, Alai Darwaza, Taj Mahal, Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, Agra Fort, and Tughlaqabad Fort etc. With inputs from Interior designing.

Beauty of Indian Architecture

Indian Architecture definitely ranks as one of the best achievements of Indian civilization. The evolution of Indian architecture has taken place over the centuries. Various factors have contributed in the development of rich Indian architecture. Factors like geographical conditions and socio-economic elements have contributed tremendously in the growth and development of Indian architectural styles. The architectural specimens found in India are vast in range because of diversity found across the regions. Architecture is one of high points of rich blend of Indian civilization that includes mass of expression. Forces of history have made sure than Indian architecture has retained a semblance of continuity.

Archeologists have discovered styles of architectural specimen that are astonishing and prove that India was always a power as far as architecture is concerned. Different eras in Indian history have gifted different architectural specimens. We can look as back as Indus valley civilization where seeds of own planning were sowed. But historically speaking advent of Buddhism marked the formal arrival of Indian architecture. Numerous buildings based on amazing designs came into existence in that period. Rock cut caves at Ajantha and great Stupa at Sanchi were the foremost gifts of the Buddhist era.

Nagara style of architecture emerged in the northern India whereas central India witnessed a new period in architecture when Chandela rulers built magnificent temple compound at Khajuraho. South India almost always had Hindu rulers that paved way for south Indian style of architecture. The best examples of that period are temples at Kanchipuram and rock cut temples of Mahabalipuram. All the rulers and dynasties in south Indian contributed significantly to rich blend of Indian architecture. With inputs from Interior designer blog.

Indian Architecture

Indian architecture has managed to garner fame and applause world over. The fascinating saga of Indian architecture reflects lasting achievements of Indian civilization. Indian architecture did not evolve in a single day but it’s a culmination of centuries of socio-economic and geological conditions. It shows fascinating facets of India’s truly rich culture through various expressions. The force of Indian history gave rise to mesmerizing expressions of unique Indian architecture. The best feature of this saga is the vast range and elements of history in architectural specimens.

One look at several specimens of architecture and one can find mix of different periods of history manifested in astonishing designs. The concept of town planning can be traced back to Indus Valley civilization. The structural designs of that period bear the stamp of rich knowledge and efforts on part of designers. But real magic occurred since the onset of Buddhism. Numerous breathtaking buildings were erected during that period. The foremost names of that era which have managed to stand the test of time are; rock-cut caves at Ajanta and the Great Stupa at Sanchi.

South India did not lag behind in terms of architectural beauty. South Indian rulers always emphasized on beautiful designs and temples of Kanchipuram and Rock cut temples of Mahabalipuram are proof of that historical era. Temples at places like Belur, Halebid and Thanjavur reflect structural excellence of south India. Coming to North India, Nagara style of architecture was very popular whereas in central India eternal temple complex at Khajuraho stand as proof of India’s all round architectural brilliance. Islamic rulers brought a complete new style of architecture with them. The Indo-Islamic architecture was a beautiful combination of best of Indian styles and aesthetic designs of Islam. British rule further enriched Indian architectural world through modern class buildings. Reference interior designer