Mughal Architecture Wonders

Mughal Architecture Wonders

Mughal architecture was the climax of Indo-Islamic architecture that began in the 13th century (Sultanate period).

According to Percy Brown, the reasons for all-round development of Mughal architecture were—aesthetic nature of Mughal rulers, personal interest of Mughal rulers, the wealth and power of the Empire, relatively settled conditions, intimate association between crown and craftsmen, etc.

Characteristic Features of Mughal Architecture

The basic characteristic features of Mughal architecture are as follows:

1. Construction of Buildings on a Large Scale and Use of Superior Materials in Building Construction

• Large surface areas were selected for Mughal building construction, which ranged from personal buildings to public buildings.

• Mughal used superior material in building construction, for example, initially sandstone, later marble, before Mughal gravel (a small piece of broken stone or brick) was used, etc. (Bijapur).

2. Outlining & Enactment in a Planned Manner

• In the time of Mughal emperors, especially Akbar & Shahjahan, detailed plans of buildings were made, and every little step was taken care of.

• The emperor himself supervised the construction of buildings.

3. Diversity in Design, Construction, and Decoration

• The Mughals paid more attention to design, construction, and decoration than before.

• Mughals paid special attention to plaster and stucco (decorative coatings applied to the ceilings and walls of buildings).

• The Mughals used Pietra Dura for the first time in the decoration of buildings.

• The application of other colored stones on white marble is called Pietra Dura, which is made in a floral design and applied to the walls of buildings.

In India, Jahangir started Pietra Dura, which reached its climax during the time of his son and successor, Shah Jahan.

4. Harmony and Balance between Built and Empty Spaces in Buildings

• Mughal buildings are in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings.

• Multi-level, multi-story buildings were not constructed to give flat construction, and vertical towers were kept to a minimum height.

5. Introduction of Char Bagh System

• Mughals introduced the Char Bagh System, a special art of garden construction, in India. The Char Bagh system was a Persian system.

• The Char Bagh system was used in Mughal tombs/mausoleums. The quadrilateral-shaped Baghs are divided into four square parts, which are a symbolic representations of the four parts of heaven (Jannat/Firdaus) as mentioned in the Quran.

• The purpose of doing this was to try to give divine status to the deceased and his lineage.

Remark by Percy Brown

In the words of art-historian Percy Brown:

"The monument produced during the Mughal period may be regarded as representing the 'Indian summer of Muslim art and architecture. And it was a summer of more than ordinary brilliance and fertility."

Final Thoughts

Mughal architecture marked the height of Indo-Islamic design in India, blending grandeur with fine craftsmanship. Emperors like Akbar, Jahangir, and Shahjahan personally guided construction, using superior materials such as sandstone and marble. Their buildings showcased planned layouts, rich decorations like Pietra Dura, and harmony with natural surroundings.

The famous Char Bagh gardens, symbolizing paradise, were another unique feature. As Percy Brown said, this period was truly the “Indian summer of Muslim art and architecture,” leaving us timeless monuments that still inspire awe today.