Architecture During the Delhi Sultanate Period: Provincial Schools of Architecture

Bengal School (1203–1573 CE)

  • Materials Used – bricks and black marble. 
  • The mosques built during this period continued the use of sloping ‘Bangla roofs’, which was previously used for temples.
  • For Example –  Qadam Rasul Mosque in Gaur.

Pic Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Jaunpur School (1394–1479 CE)

  • Patronised by the Sharqi rulers of Jaunpur.
  • Also called the Sharqi style of architecture.
  • This style avoided the use of minars.
  • A unique feature of the buildings is the use of bold and forceful characters painted on huge screens in the centre and side bays of the prayer hall.
  • For Example – Atala Mosque in Jaunpur.

Pic Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Malwa School (1405-1569 CE)

  • Also known as the Pathan School of Architecture
  • Features
    • The use of large windows made the buildings and rooms well ventilated. 
    • The pavilions were slightly arched which made them airy and allowed the buildings to remain cool during the day. 
    • Artificial reservoirs known as ‘baulis’ were constructed in the premises for storage of water. 
    • Locally available materials were used.
    • The use of battered walls as introduced by Tughlaqs made the buildings strong.
    • One of the finest specimens of environmental adaptation of the period.
  • For Example – Rani Roopmati Pavilion, Jahaz Mahal.
Jahaz Mahal

  • It is a two-story palace with open pavilions, balconies overhanging the lake, and a terrace situated between two reservoirs.
  • Sultan Ghiyasuddin Khilji may have used it as a harem and a pleasure resort when he built it.
  • It is noted for its sophisticated rainwater storage tank, which not only collects rainwater but also created a relaxing atmosphere around the palace.
  • Ghiyasuddin Khilji constructed Jahaz Mahal primarily to accommodate his harem’s 15000 women.

Pic Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Bijapur School (1490-1656 CE)

  • Patronage by Adil Shah of Bijapur sultanate.
  • Also called the Deccan style of architecture
  • Unique in the use of a 3-arched facade and bulbous dome in mosques, tombs, and palaces.
  • Introduced the use of cornices.
  • A special feature of the Bijapur school was the treatment of its ceilings.
  • Iron clamps and a strong plaster of mortar were used to give strength to the buildings. 
  • The walls were decorated with rich carvings. 
  • For Example –  Gol Gumbaz (the mausoleum of Adil Shah) in Bijapur or Vijayapura
Gol Gumbaz

  • It is the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah, Sultan of Bijapur.
  • Location – Bijapur, Karnataka.
  • The name means ‘circular dome’, and the tomb has one of the biggest domes in India.
  • Its architect was Yaqut of Dabul.
  • The amazing feature of this dome is that it stands unsupported by pillars.
  • The dome houses the tombs of Muhammad Adil Shah, his two wives, his mistress, his daughter and grandson.
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