Question

Write an essay on the Mughal Architecture.

Hint:

To write a good essay on Mughal architecture, follow a chronological approach. Associate each major emperor (Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan) with their preferred building material (Red Sandstone → White Marble), key architectural innovations (Pietra Dura, Charbagh), and at least one iconic monument.

Answer 1

Mughal architecture represents a unique blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian architectural styles that evolved in India during the rule of the Mughal Empire (16th to 19th centuries). It is renowned for its grandeur, symmetry, and intricate ornamentation. The evolution of this style can be traced through the reigns of various Mughal emperors.
Early Phase: Babur and Humayun
The early Mughal rulers were more focused on consolidating their empire and had limited time for grand construction. Babur, the founder, built a few mosques, such as the one at Panipat, but most have not survived. Humayun's reign was tumultuous, but his tomb in Delhi, built by his widow Haji Begum during Akbar's reign, is a magnificent early example of Mughal architecture. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and introduced key features like the large central dome, the use of red sandstone and white marble, and the \textit{charbagh} (a four-quadrant garden) layout.
The Zenith under Akbar
Emperor Akbar's reign was a period of great architectural activity. He extensively used red sandstone and blended Persian and Indian (especially Rajput) architectural elements. His constructions were massive and robust. Key examples include:

Agra Fort: A massive fortress-palace built of red sandstone on the banks of the river Yamuna.
Fatehpur Sikri: Akbar's new capital city, which showcases a synthesis of different regional styles. It includes magnificent structures like the Buland Darwaza (the highest gateway in India), the Tomb of Salim Chishti (made of marble), Panch Mahal (a five-storied palace), and the Diwan-i-Khas with its unique central pillar.
Transition under Jahangir
Jahangir was more interested in painting, but his reign marked a transition from the robust red sandstone of Akbar's time to the more delicate and ornate white marble. The most significant architectural achievement of his period is the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah in Agra, built by his wife Nur Jahan. This tomb is the first Mughal structure built completely of white marble and is notable for its extensive use of \textit{pietra dura} (inlay work with semi-precious stones), which became a hallmark of later Mughal architecture.
The Golden Age under Shah Jahan
Shah Jahan's reign is considered the golden age of Mughal architecture. His buildings are characterized by perfect symmetry, elegance, and an almost exclusive use of white marble, adorned with exquisite pietra dura and jali (latticed screen) work. His masterpieces include:

The Taj Mahal: The pinnacle of Mughal architecture, a mausoleum built in Agra for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is celebrated for its perfect proportions, magnificent dome, intricate marble carvings, and pietra dura work.
The Red Fort (Lal Qila) in Delhi: A vast complex of palaces, halls, and pavilions, including the Diwan-i-Aam and the Diwan-i-Khas.
Jama Masjid, Delhi: One of the largest mosques in India.
Decline under Aurangzeb
Aurangzeb, a devout puritan, had little interest in art and architecture. His reign saw a sharp decline in architectural patronage. The few notable buildings from his time, such as the Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad (a mausoleum for his wife) and the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, are considered poor imitations of earlier Mughal structures, lacking the same sense of proportion and elegance.