Indo-Islamic architecture in India combines Indian, Persian, and Central Asian styles to create a unique style. Salient features of Indo-Islamic architecture:
- Domes and Arcades: Indo-Islamic architecture uses arcades and domes. Mosques and mausoleums use arcades, which are columns-supported arches. Dome-shaped Indo-Islamic architecture, found in tombs and mosques, is bulbous or onion-shaped.
- Minarets: Tall, slender towers situated around mosques and mausoleums. Their visual marker is used for the call to prayer. Minarets have balconies, galleries, and intricate carvings.
- Intricate Carvings and Calligraphy: Indo-Islamic architecture is marked by intricate carvings and calligraphy. Buildings often have intricate geometric patterns, floral motifs, and Arabic inscriptions. Architecture often incorporates Quranic verses or other religious texts through calligraphy.
- Courtyards: Indo-Islamic buildings often have large courtyards that serve as gathering spaces for worshippers and visitors. Arcades surround these courtyards, creating a peaceful and open space within the building.
- Use of Marble and Red Sandstone: Indo-Islamic architecture extensively utilizes these materials. Marble is utilized for intricate carvings and inlay work, while red sandstone is utilized for building walls and facades.
Indo-Islamic architecture in India includes:
- The Taj Mahal in Agra, with its white marble and intricate detailing.
- The Jama Masjid in Delhi, India’s largest mosque, is made of red sandstone and white marble.
- The massive dome and whispering gallery of Bijapur’s Gol Gumbaz.
- The red sandstone and marble Qutub Minar in Delhi.
These examples demonstrate India’s unique blend of architectural styles and grandeur of Indo-Islamic architecture.
Finally, Indo-Islamic architecture in India features arcades, domes, minarets, ornate carvings, and calligraphy. The fusion of architectural styles has created magnificent structures that showcase cultural and artistic exchange between civilizations.