Question

Select the feature of Mughal garden

• A. Occult symmetry, pontoon bridges, stepping stone
• B. Hierarchy of courts, hierarchy of gates, zoomorphic form
• C. Symmetrical layout, water cascades, entombment
• D. Radial layout, symmetrical sculpture, boulevards

Hint:

\textbf{Key features of Mughal Gardens:}
Formal, rectilinear, and \textbf{symmetrical layouts} (often Charbagh).
Extensive use of \textbf{water} (channels, pools, fountains, \textbf{cascades}).
Enclosed by walls.
Pavilions and often \textbf{tombs (entombment)} as central features.
Orderly planting of trees and flowers.
Contrast with Japanese gardens (asymmetry, naturalism, symbolism) or European formal gardens (axial vistas, parterres).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Mughal gardens are a distinct style of garden design that flourished under the Mughal Empire in the Indian subcontinent. Key features include:
Symmetrical Layout (Charbagh): Many Mughal gardens are based on the Persian \textit{charbagh} concept, a four-part garden divided by walkways or flowing water into four quadrants, representing the four gardens of Paradise mentioned in the Quran. Symmetry and rectilinear geometry are hallmarks.
Water Features: Water is a central element, used extensively in channels (canals), fountains, pools, and water cascades (\textit{chadar} - a sloped, often carved, surface for water to flow over). These create visual beauty, cooling effects, and symbolic meaning.
Enclosed Spaces: Gardens are typically enclosed by high walls, creating a private, tranquil retreat.
Pavilions and Structures: Often include pavilions (\textit{baradaris}), platforms, and sometimes tombs, as many Mughal gardens were associated with mausoleums (e.g., Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb). The concept of entombment within a garden setting is a significant feature of tomb gardens.
Use of Trees and Flowers: A rich variety of fruit trees, flowering plants, and shade trees were planted in an orderly manner. Let's evaluate the options:
(a) Occult symmetry, pontoon bridges, stepping stone: "Occult symmetry" (hidden or asymmetrical balance) is more characteristic of Japanese gardens. Pontoon bridges and stepping stones are also common in Japanese or Chinese garden styles, not typical of Mughal gardens.
(b) Hierarchy of courts, hierarchy of gates, zoomorphic form: Hierarchy of courts and gates are features of palace or fort architecture (e.g., Mughal forts like Red Fort, Agra Fort). "Zoomorphic form" (animal shapes) is not a defining characteristic of Mughal garden layout, though animal motifs might appear in decoration.
(c) Symmetrical layout, water cascades, entombment:
\textit{Symmetrical layout:} Yes, a core principle (charbagh).
\textit{Water cascades:} Yes, common water features.
\textit{Entombment:} Yes, many famous Mughal gardens are tomb gardens (e.g., Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb, Shalimar Bagh in Kashmir if associated with royal presence). This option lists key, characteristic features of Mughal gardens.
(d) Radial layout, symmetrical sculpture, boulevards: Radial layouts and grand boulevards are more characteristic of European formal garden design (e.g., French Baroque). Symmetrical sculpture is common in European gardens, less so as a defining element of Mughal garden layout itself (though decorative elements exist). Option (c) best captures a set of defining features of Mughal gardens. \[ \boxed{\text{Symmetrical layout, water cascades, entombment}} \]