Architecture During the Delhi Sultanate Period: Imperial Style

The style of architecture that came during this period is known as the Mamluk style of architecture.
Most of the constructions were remodeling of the existing Hindu structures.
For Example – the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in the Qutub Minar premises which was converted from a Jain temple.

Qutub Minar

It is a five-storeyed red sandstone tower built by Muslim conquerors in the thirteenth century to commemorate their final triumph over the Rajput rulers of Delhi.
It is located inside the Qutub complex.
Its construction was started by Qutub-ud-din Aibak (1206-1210) in 1193 and finished by Iltutmish (1211-1236).
The Minar is engraved with fine arabesque decorations on its surface, mainly verses from the Quran.
It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.

Pic Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Established the Seljuk style of architecture.
Material Used – Red sandstone
The prominence of Arcuate style began during this period.
Mortar began to be used prominently in all the constructions as a cementing agent.
For Example – Alai Darwaza by Ala-ud-din Khilji.

Alai Darwaza

The Alai Darwaza is the main gate from the southern side of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque in the Qutub Minar complex.
Built by Alaudin Khilji in 1311 CE.
The Alai Darwaza has a domed entrance which was constructed using red sandstone and adorned with white marble.
The walls of the Alai Darwaza are intricately inscribed with the Naskh script.
Built by Turkic craftsmen, the Alai Darwaza is one of the first buildings in India to be built using an Islamic architectural style.

Material Used – grey sandstone.
The focus was more on the strength of the building and so there was less emphasis on decoration.
The constructions combined both arch and lintel methods of entrance design.
They also introduced a style of construction known as “batter” which was characterised by sloping walls to give more strength to the buildings.
For Example – The cities of Tughlaqabaad, Jahanpanah, and Ferozabad.

Only tombs were commissioned during this period.
Introduction of double domes. Reasons for introduction
- To give strength to the structure.
- To lower the inner height of the dome.
For Example – Lodi Gardens in the city of Agra was established by Sikandar Lodi.