{"id":10310,"date":"2025-11-02T11:01:24","date_gmt":"2025-11-02T05:31:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/?p=10310"},"modified":"2025-11-04T11:55:18","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T06:25:18","slug":"delhi-sultanate-architecture","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/delhi-sultanate-architecture\/","title":{"rendered":"Delhi Sultanate Architecture, Evolution, Imperial Style, Provincial Style"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Delhi Sultanate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (1206\u20131526 AD) marked the evolution of Indo-Islamic architecture, blending Islamic and local Indian styles. The Imperial Style developed under dynasties like the Slave, Khilji, Tughlaq, Sayyid, and Lodi, featuring monumental structures with domes, arches, and minarets. Each dynasty introduced unique elements, influencing the overall architectural aesthetic.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Meanwhile, the Provincial Style emerged in regions like Mandu, Gujarat, Bengal, and Jaunpur, reflecting local craftsmanship and traditions. These regional styles integrated Islamic design elements with indigenous materials and techniques, creating a distinct architectural identity for each province. This fusion highlighted the Sultanate\u2019s cultural diversity and laid the foundation for Mughal architectural advancements.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Evolution<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate, established in 1206 AD by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak, witnessed a remarkable era of architectural development. Spanning over three centuries, from its founding to its fall in 1526 AD with the rise of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/the-mughal-empire\/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mughal Empire<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, the Sultanate saw the construction of numerous iconic structures. The architecture of this period is broadly classified into two distinct styles:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Imperial Style:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Patronized by the rulers of Delhi, this style reflected the political power and grandeur of the central authority. It is known for its monumental structures and Islamic architectural elements, such as domes, arches, and minarets.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Provincial Style:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Sponsored by local rulers and fiefs, the provincial style varied regionally, blending Islamic architectural elements with local traditions and craftsmanship. It showcased the unique cultural diversity of different regions within the Sultanate.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Imperial Style\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Imperial style of architecture flourished under various dynasties, with each ruler imparting unique elements while maintaining a cohesive overall aesthetic. The Slave Dynasty, Khilji Dynasty, Tughlaq Dynasty, and Lodi Dynasty all contributed to this architectural tradition, blending strength, practicality, and beauty.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This era of architecture, particularly during the Delhi Sultanate, was heavily influenced by Islamic styles from Persia and Central Asia, which were fused with significant Indian elements, leading to the evolution of the Indo-Islamic architectural style.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The development of this style under the Delhi Sultans can be traced through the following dynastic phases.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Slave Dynasty<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/slave-dynasty\/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Slave Dynasty<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> or Ilbari Dynasty ruled from 1206 to 1290 AD. The architectural style during this period became known as the <\/span><b>Mameluke style.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Most of the constructions involved remodelling existing Hindu structures.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Additionally, new monuments were erected, demonstrating the integration of Indo-Islamic influences.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The architectural style showcased a blend of local elements and Islamic techniques, with later developments incorporating more Islamic decorative details.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Examples<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Qutub Minar<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: A five-storey tower, started by <\/span><b>Qutb-ud-din Aibak<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, with only the ground floor completed by him. The next three storeys were completed by <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/iltutmish\/\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Iltutmish<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, and the final fifth storey was added by <\/span><b>Feroze Shah Tughlaq<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10339\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Iltutmish-Tomb-in-Qutub-Minar-complex-Delhi.webp\" alt=\"Iltutmish Tomb in Qutub Minar complex, Delhi\" width=\"512\" height=\"640\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Built from the remains of 27 Hindu and Jain temples within the Qutub Minar complex.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Arhai-din-ka-Jhopra<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Located in Ajmer, another significant example of the period.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Iltutmish's tomb<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Showcases the use of a domical roof.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mausoleum of Balban<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: This represents the culmination of this architectural style.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Khilji Dynasty<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/khilji-dynasty\/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Khilji dynasty<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> introduced the Seljuq architectural style (influenced by a Turkish tribe from Central Asia) and certain features were later adopted in succeeding styles. This era saw the use of <\/span><b>red sandstone,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and mortar, and the rise of the <\/span><b>Arcuate style<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> with true arches and domes. Key features of this phase include:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Pointed horseshoe arches and true domes with recessed arches supported by squinches.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Red sandstone and decorative marble reliefs as the primary materials.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">'Lotus-bud' fringe under arches and a new masonry-facing technique alternating narrow and wide courses.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bold and widespread use of calligraphy, geometry, and arabesque in decoration.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Examples:\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Alai Darwaza<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and <\/span><b>Jamat Khana Masjid <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">marked a significant shift in architectural style, introducing new design elements and techniques during the Khilji period.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Hauz Khas Complex<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, built in the early 14th century by <\/span><b>Ala-ud-din Khilji<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, includes a mosque, madrasa, tomb, and reservoir, showcasing the architectural advancements of this period.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10336\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Alai-Darwaza-in-Qutub-Minar-complex-Delhi.webp\" alt=\"Alai Darwaza in Qutub Minar complex, Delhi\" width=\"527\" height=\"408\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Alai-Darwaza-in-Qutub-Minar-complex-Delhi.webp 1024w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Alai-Darwaza-in-Qutub-Minar-complex-Delhi-768x594.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Tughlaq Dynasty<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/the-tughlaq-dynasty\/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tughlaq dynasty<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> saw a crisis period in architectural activity during the Delhi Sultanate, yet some construction projects persisted. <\/span><b>Grey sandstone<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> became the predominant material, with a focus on enhancing the strength and durability of structures, leading to minimal decorative elements. Key features of this phase include:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Introduction of the <\/span><b>\"batter\" technique,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> characterized by sloping walls, which provided additional structural strength.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Stone rubble was the principal building material, with plastered walls. Both walls and bastions were battered (sloped) for added strength.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Introduction of the four-centred arch reinforced with a beam, a distinctive feature of the Tughluq style. The emergence of a <\/span><b>pointed dome<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> with a visible neck replaced the stifled dome of earlier styles. Use of <\/span><b>encaustic tiles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> for decorative panels.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Octagonal tomb plans began to appear, later perfected by the Mughals. Ornamentation was minimal, with decoration mainly in the form of inscribed borders and medallions in plaster or stucco.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Examples<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: <\/span><b>Tughlaqabad Fort<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (built by Ghiyas-ud-Din Tughluq, 1321 AD), Cities of Tughlaqabad, Jahanpanah, and Ferozabad.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10341\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Tughlaqabad-Fort-Delhi.webp\" alt=\"Tughlaqabad Fort, Delhi\" width=\"493\" height=\"329\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Tughlaqabad-Fort-Delhi.webp 980w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Tughlaqabad-Fort-Delhi-768x513.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 493px) 100vw, 493px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Saiyyids Dynasty<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">After the sack of Delhi by Timur in 1398, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/the-sayyid-and-lodi-dynasty\/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Saiyyid Dynasty<\/span><\/a> <b>(1414-1451 AD)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> came to power. During this period, a distinct style of tomb architecture began to take shape. The tombs constructed during this time displayed the following features:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Octagonal Plan Tombs:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The main chamber was surrounded by an arched verandah that was one storey high. Verandah with projecting eaves adds to the architectural identity.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Square Plan Tombs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Absence of a verandah around the main tomb chamber. Comprised of two or three storeys with eaves. Coloured tile decoration and intricately incised plaster were used for surface embellishment.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Several tombs built around Delhi during this period reflect the architectural trends established under the Saiyyids.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Lodi\u00a0 Dynasty<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Under Lodi Dynasty <\/span><b>(1451-1526 AD)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, architectural activity slowed down significantly, with a focus primarily on the construction of tombs. A key architectural innovation of this period was the <\/span><b>introduction of double domes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. This design featured a hollow inner dome beneath the outer dome, which served two main purposes:\u00a0 To give strength to the structure and to lower the inner height of the dome.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The tombs built during the Lodi period were characterized by their simple, bare exteriors, lacking elaborate decoration. They typically followed an octagonal plan, with a diameter of approximately 15 meters, and were supported by a sloping verandah.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Examples: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Lodi Gardens in Delhi, where several tombs were constructed, the city of Agra was founded by Sikandar Lodi.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10340\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Lodi-Garden-Delhi.webp\" alt=\"Lodi Garden, Delhi\" width=\"637\" height=\"359\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Lodi-Garden-Delhi.webp 1500w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Lodi-Garden-Delhi-768x433.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 637px) 100vw, 637px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture Provincial Styles<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">During the later Tughlaq period, several provinces declared independence, leading to the emergence of distinct Provincial Architectural Styles. These regional styles were more elaborate and reflected the influence of local traditions, combined with Indo-Islamic architectural elements.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The key centres of architectural development during this time included Mandu, Gujarat, Bengal, and Jaunpur.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Each of these regions showcased unique styles shaped by their local influences, while also integrating elements of the Indo-Islamic design that had begun to permeate regional architecture.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mandu Style of Architecture\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mandu\u2019s architectural style is characterized by Indian functionalism. It is typically devoid of heavy ornamentation. It shows a blend of Rajasthani, Islamic, Arabian, and Afghan styles.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The mosques are Arabian, with no minarets, and their hypostyle (having a roof supported by pillars) worship halls and cloisters encircling a courtyard.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The domes and pillars of mosques built out of the materials of Hindu buildings at Dhar were of Hindu form.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Examples:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Jami Masjid, Hindola Mahal, Asharfi Mahal, Jahaz Mahal, the Hushang Shah\u2019s tomb, and the palaces of Baz Bahadur and his queen Rupamati.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10342\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Mandu-MP.webp\" alt=\"Mandu, MP\" width=\"750\" height=\"295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Mandu-MP.webp 1400w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Mandu-MP-768x302.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Gujarat Style of Architecture<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Gujarat style architecture represents the best specimens of a fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Rulers drew from the rich Jain architecture of Gujarat to devise a unique architectural style of their own, which was markedly different from the Delhi Sultanate style.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Some of its features are slender turrets, exquisite stone carving, and highly ornate brackets.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Examples:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Jami Masjid and Tomb of Ahmad Shah at Ahmedabad, the Tin Darwaza, Ranika Hujra, and Dholka Masjid.<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The city of Champaner is famous for many beautiful buildings, e.g. mosque built by Mahmud Begarha. The stonework found in Champaner buildings is unique due to being extremely fine.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10338\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Champaner-Gujarat.webp\" alt=\"Champaner, Gujarat\" width=\"498\" height=\"373\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Champaner-Gujarat.webp 1000w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Champaner-Gujarat-768x576.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bengal Style of Architecture<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bengal style architecture (1203\u20131573 AD) is notable for its distinctive use of <\/span><b>bricks and black marble<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, along with <\/span><b>sloping 'Bangla roofs'<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, a feature originally seen in temple architecture. Key characteristics of the <\/span><b>Bengal style<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Drop arches (broad, sloping arches).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Roofs are raised in a system of arched bays supported by specially designed pillars.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><br \/>\r\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Brick and mortar were the primary building materials, with native bamboo structures being replicated in brick form.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Bangla roof became a defining feature. Terracotta tiles were widely used for decoration, incorporating motifs like the lotus and swan, reflecting strong Hindu influences.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Later phases saw the emergence of a semi-indigenous style, blending local architectural traditions with environmental factors specific to Bengal.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Examples:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0 Adina Masjid constructed by Sikandar Shah at Pandua; the Dakhil Darwaza at Gaur and the tomb of Jalaluddin Muhammad.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10335\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Adina-Mosque-Pandua.webp\" alt=\"Adina Mosque, Pandua\" width=\"640\" height=\"340\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Adina-Mosque-Pandua.webp 1120w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Adina-Mosque-Pandua-768x408.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Jaunpur Style of Architecture<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><b>Jaunpur style Architecture<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (1394\u20131479 AD), also known as the Sharqi style, flourished under the patronage of the Sharqi rulers. It avoided the use of minarets, similar to the Pathan style. A distinctive feature of this style is the bold inscriptions painted on large screens in the prayer halls. Key features of Sharqi architecture in Jaunpur include:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Battered bastions and minarets.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Use of the arch-and-beam combination in openings.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The facade design of mosques is characterized by lofty propylons with sloping sides and tapering square minars around recessed arches.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Examples:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Atala Mosque and Jami Masjid in Jaunpur, both reflecting Tughluq architectural influences.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10337\" src=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Atala-Mosque-Jaunpur-UP.webp\" alt=\"Atala Mosque, Jaunpur, UP\" width=\"638\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Atala-Mosque-Jaunpur-UP.webp 800w, https:\/\/d35xcwcl37xo08.cloudfront.net\/upsc-exam-wp-uploads\/2025\/04\/Atala-Mosque-Jaunpur-UP-768x480.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi Sultanate Architecture UPSC PYQs<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><b>Q1.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence Indian society?<\/span><b> (UPSC Mains 2023)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse;width: 100%;height: 200px\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"width: 100%;text-align: center;height: 25px\" colspan=\"2\"><strong>Other Related Posts<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/indus-valley-civilization-art-and-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Art and Architecture of IVC<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/gupta-art-and-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Gupta Art and Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/mauryan-art-and-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Mauryan Art and Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/pallava-art-and-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pallava Art and Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/gandhara-school-of-art\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Gandhara School of Art<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/imperial-cholas-art-architecture-and-literature\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Imperial Cholas<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/mathura-school-of-art\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Mathura School of Art<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/indo-islamic-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Indo Islamic Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/amaravati-school-of-art\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Amaravati School of Art<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/delhi-sultanate-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Delhi Sultanate Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/stupas\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Stupas<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;text-align: center;height: 25px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/the-mughal-art-and-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Mughal Art and Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 25px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 100%;text-align: center;height: 25px\" colspan=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/jain-art-and-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Jain Art and Architecture<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Delhi Sultanate (1206\u20131526) saw Indo-Islamic architecture evolve through Imperial and Provincial styles\u2014marked by domes, arches, minarets, and regional fusions\u2014shaping India\u2019s architectural legacy before the Mughals.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":10330,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,38],"tags":[1092,40,619],"class_list":{"0":"post-10310","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-upsc-art-culture-notes","8":"category-upsc-notes","9":"tag-delhi-sultanate-architecture","10":"tag-quest","11":"tag-upsc-art-and-culture-notes"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10310","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10310"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10310\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19688,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10310\/revisions\/19688"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10330"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10310"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10310"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10310"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}