A Quick Overview Of Indian Architecture
Indian architecture is shaped by a rich and diverse history. For thousands of years, India has been home to multiple styles of architecture, each of them reflecting the culture and values of the people who inhabited it. The three styles of Indian architecture – Hindu, Islamic, and Colonial – all have distinct features that influence the way buildings look and feel, and how their design and construction differ from one another.
Hindu Architecture
The quintessence of Hindu architecture is mainly seen in monumental temple architectures made of brick and stone, which date back to the 7th century. Hindu temple architecture is characterized by its layers of sculptures, obelisks and spires. Each layer stands for the spiritual tradition the temple was intended to be a part of. Additionally, Hindu temples often include mandapams, pillared pavilions, or chariots to symbolize heaven, as well as gates at the front, side and back walls to indicate the hierarchy of importance for gods. Designs for Hindu temples are often symbolic of the philosophical principles that govern them.
Cave temple architecture was another style made popular between the 5th and 9th centuries. Design and construction of cave temples were determined primarily by their environment. For example, whether a temple was made in a mountain, on the ground, near a river or cliff, it would be unique in its building materials, architectural features, and the gods it was dedicated to. Many of the most famous cave temples, like the Elephanta Caves in Maharashtra, Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad, and the Ellora Caves in Gujarat, are now UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Islamic Architecture
Islamic architecture also has a long history in India, with styles noticeably shaped by centuries of Mughal and Sultanate rule. Mughal architecture, which was established during the 16th century and lasted until the mid-18th century, is well known for its richly decorated domes, monuments, mosques and tombs. Features of Mughal architecture also include large courtyards and widespread gardens, intricate metalwork and use of colorful inlay marbles, and a blend of Rajasthani, Indian and Persian influence. Islamic architecture in India is largely based on the principles of geometric proportions and symmetry.
Islamic architecture also includes smaller religious buildings. Dargahs and Sufi shrines, for example, are characterized by their white marble façades, pillars and courts for congregational prayer and dancing. Wonders like the Hazratbal Mosque in Srinagar are breathtakingly beautiful examples of the use of Islamic architecture in India.
Colonial Architecture
As a result of colonialism, influences from Western European architecture were also brought to India during the 18th and 19th centuries. These influences can be seen in many Neo-Classical and Edwardian structures, such as the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. Examples of colonial architecture also include palaces and forts, such as the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur and Red Fort in Delhi. Colonial architecture in India is notable for its use of bricks, terracotta, stucco and white marble, as well as its adaptation of the architectural principles of the West.
The use of European architectural styles and elements continues in modern day India, due to the consistent influx of foreign cultures. It is not uncommon to see European-style buildings alongside those reflecting an Indian or Islamic pattern, or modern skyscrapers alongside ancient temples.
Modern Indian Architecture
Modern Indian architecture has embraced modern styles while still respecting and incorporating traditional patterns. Modern skyscrapers and shopping malls, for instance, blend Indian motifs and materials with contemporary international structures. Architects are taking inspiration from traditional designs like domes and arches, giving them new life and introducing them in new contexts. Furthermore, innovative technologies like intelligent building systems, green architecture, automated materials handling and state-of-the-art machines are being used to revolutionize the Indian construction sector.
Indian architects are also turning to more sustainable building methods and materials, such as recycled brick and stone, recycled glass and terra cotta, and clay and mud. By adopting these respected methods, Indian architects have gone from utilizing wealth from colonialism and modernization to creating wealth from developing native practices.
Environmental Impact of Indian Architecture
Indian architecture is also becoming more aware of its environmental impact. In particular, green architecture is becoming increasingly popular. This style of architecture is designed to integrate the built environment with the surrounding natural environment, and architects are using various methods to minimize energy consumption, reduce waste and conserve resources. The trend of eco-friendly construction is not only helping to reduce the amount of energy wasted, but it is also producing long-term economic and environmental benefits as well as improved public health.
Another major element of Indian architecture is the attempt to reduce its carbon footprint, which is closely linked to climate change. Indian architects have devised ways to reduce their buildings’ energy consumption, such as utilizing solar power, investing in green building materials, and designing attics and walls for better airtightness. In addition to the environmental benefits of minimizing energy use, these practices also reduce costs incurred by buildings’ owners and operators.
Symbolism Within Indian Architecture
The forms, proportions and characteristics of Indian architecture are deeply symbolic meaning. Everything from the size and shape of a building, to the materials used, or the color of the exterior walls have a significance. For example, the traditional color of a Hindu temple is saffron-orange, known in Hinduism as the color of awakening and spiritual knowledge. Additionally, one of the reasons for the prevalence of domes in Indian buildings is that it is seen as a symbol of protection and integrity; it is meant to remind those inside and outside about the infinity of the spiritual realm. Arabesque patterns and mandala designs, meanwhile, symbolize love and divine protection.
Urban Planning and Indian Architecture
Indian architecture is also heavily influenced by urban planning. In particular, the layout of many cities and towns in India is designed to maximize light, ventilation and aesthetics while reducing energy consumption. Within the structures themselves, urban planners focus on using space efficiently, minimizing waste, and creating comfortable and aesthetically pleasing interiors. Indian architecture often incorporates common areas where people can gather and relax, such as courtyards and gardens.
In the cities, urban planners take into consideration the transportation system and how it influences the layout of buildings and streets. To reduce congestion and air pollution, Indian cities are often designed with larger roads and fewer traffic lights. Additionally, for most cities in India, the government has set guidelines for the types of buildings that can be constructed in certain areas, such as residential, industrial and commercial, in order to keep the city from becoming overcrowded.
Impact of Indian Architecture on the World
Indian architecture has left an incredible mark on the world. The incredible monuments, temples, forts and buildings that have been constructed over the years have become beloved tourist sites and popular educational destinations. Additionally, the influence of Indian architecture has spread across the globe, with many countries adopting aspects of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The Taj Mahal in Agra, for example, is one of the most iconic structures in the world, and it has inspired countless other buildings and monuments in countries around the world.
Perhaps what is even more remarkable is the impact Indian architecture has had on the development of urban planning. Indigenous concepts, such as the use of natural materials and the attempt to optimize energy efficiency and conservation efforts, have been adopted in cities around the world. As Indian architecture continues to evolve and integrate aspects of modern design, it will continue to create a lasting impression on the world around it.
