Solution: Daily Problem Practice [Medieval India: Week 11]- 27 December

Q. Give an account of the Malwa style of architecture in medieval India. [10 Marks]

Ans:

Malwa style of architecture developed in Malwa region during 15th and 16th century. Main examples of the style are found in the cities of Dhar, Mandu and Chanderi.

Important features:

• Based on Tughlaq style
• Battered walls
• Pointed arches with spear head fringe.
• Combination of arch with pillar, lintel and beam.
• Buildings are raised on high plinths, accessed by long and stately flight of steps.
• Prominent use of colour in decoration.
• Use of different coloured marble, semi-precious stones and glazed tiles.
• The artisans in Malwa possessed a secret formula for creating Turquoise blue colour.

The style can be divided into 3 phases:

• First Phase:
  • Dismantling of temples and converting them into mosque.
    • Kamal Maula Masjid (Dhar)
    • Lat Masjid (Dhar)
    • Malik Mughis Masjid (Mandu)
• Second (Classical) Phase:
  • Monuments of original character. Sober and elegant. More substantial and formal order.
    • Jami Masjid at Mandu
      • Started by Hushang Shah and finished by Mahmud I in A.D. 1440.
      • raised on a high plinth
    • Ashrafi Mahal
      • composed of three distinct buildings
      • tower was in red sandstone
      • patterns of inlaid marble
    • Hushang Shah’s Tomb
      • built by Hushang Shah, completed by Mahmud I in 1440 A.D.
      • made of marble
    • Hindola Mahal
      • built by Hushang Shah
      • walls are thick, battered slope
      • structure was for women
      • ‘T’ shape plan
    • Jahaaz Mahal
      • shape, dimension and position gives the illusion of a ship
      • roof has a series of kiosk, overhang balconies
      • extending along the edge of lake
• Third Phase:
  • Less austere and more fanciful structures, implying a life of ease and luxury.
  • Main examples are pavilions, loggias, kiosks, terraces etc.
    • Baz Bahadur’s Palace
      • form of summer palace and pavilions
      • ground storey consisted of compartments grouped around a central courtyard with pools or fountains.
      • all the surfaces adorned with painted tiles.
    • Kushk Mahal (Chanderi)
      • Originally seven storeyed, only four storeys now remain.
    • Jami Masjid at Chanderi
      • shape of three domes.

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