Bahmani Sultans & Indo-Islamic Architecture | UPSC Mains HISTORY-PAPER-I 2024

Discuss the contributions of Bahmani Sultans to the development of Indo-Islamic architecture.

How to Approach

This question requires a detailed understanding of the Bahmani Sultanate and its impact on Indo-Islamic architecture. The answer should focus on the distinct features introduced by the Bahmanis, their influences, and specific examples of architectural achievements. A chronological approach, highlighting the phases of development, would be beneficial. Mentioning the patronage of different rulers and the fusion of Persian, Turkish, and Deccan styles is crucial. The answer should demonstrate a nuanced understanding of architectural elements and their significance.

Early Phase (1347-1482 CE): Foundations and Influences

The initial phase of Bahmani architecture was heavily influenced by the styles prevalent in Delhi and other parts of North India. Ala-ud-Din Hasan Bahman Shah founded Gulbarga as his capital and initiated construction of the Jama Masjid of Gulbarga (1367 CE). This mosque, though relatively simple, showcased the early adoption of Islamic architectural principles like arches, domes, and minarets. The use of locally available stone and the incorporation of Deccan elements were also evident. The Fort of Gulbarga, with its massive fortifications and defensive structures, also dates to this period.

The Golden Age (1482-1518 CE): Innovation and Refinement

The reign of Muhammad Gawan, the prime minister under Mahmud Shah Bahmani, marked the golden age of Bahmani architecture. Gawan, a Persian scholar and administrator, actively promoted art and architecture, leading to significant innovations. He shifted the capital to Bidar in 1425, initiating a new wave of construction. The architectural style during this period became more refined and sophisticated.

Key Architectural Features of the Bidar Style:

Massive Structures: Buildings were characterized by their imposing size and solidity.
Stucco Decoration: Extensive use of stucco ornamentation, including geometric patterns, floral motifs, and calligraphy, became a hallmark of Bahmani architecture.
Innovative Dome Construction: The Bahmanis experimented with different dome shapes, including bulbous and stilted domes.
Use of Turquoise Tiles: The use of vibrant turquoise-colored tiles for decoration added a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
Influence of Persian ‘Chahar Taq’ Plan: The four-iwan (chahar taq) plan, originating in Persia, was widely adopted in the construction of mosques and madrasas.

Notable Architectural Achievements

Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan (Bidar, 1476 CE): This magnificent madrasa is considered a masterpiece of Bahmani architecture. It features a large courtyard, four imposing iwan gateways, and intricate stucco decoration. It was designed to be a center of learning, housing students and scholars from across the Islamic world.
Tomb of Muhammad Gawan (Bidar): This imposing tomb, built after Gawan’s death, showcases the grandeur and sophistication of Bahmani architecture. It features a large dome, intricate stucco work, and a serene atmosphere.
Jama Masjid, Bidar: This mosque, built during the reign of Ahmad Shah I, is another notable example of Bahmani architecture. It features a large courtyard, multiple arches, and a majestic dome.
Ashtur tombs (Bidar): A cluster of tombs belonging to the Bahmani rulers, showcasing a blend of architectural styles.

Decline and Legacy

The Bahmani Sultanate fragmented into five smaller states in the early 16th century, leading to a decline in centralized patronage. However, the architectural traditions established by the Bahmanis continued to flourish in these successor states, particularly in the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur and the Qutb Shahi dynasty of Golconda. The Bahmani style served as a foundation for the development of Deccan architecture, influencing the construction of numerous mosques, tombs, and palaces in the region. The distinctive use of stucco, turquoise tiles, and innovative dome construction continued to be prominent features of Deccan architecture for centuries.

Ruler	Architectural Contribution
Ala-ud-Din Hasan Bahman Shah	Foundation of Bahmani architectural style; Jama Masjid, Gulbarga; Fort of Gulbarga
Muhammad Gawan	Golden age of Bahmani architecture; Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan; Tomb of Muhammad Gawan; Shift of capital to Bidar
Ahmad Shah I	Jama Masjid, Bidar

Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Chahar Taq

A Persian architectural plan consisting of four iwan (vaulted halls) opening onto a central courtyard. It became a popular design element in Islamic architecture, particularly in mosques and madrasas.

Stucco

A fine plaster made of lime, sand, and water, used for coating walls and ceilings, and often molded into decorative designs. It was extensively used by the Bahmanis for ornamentation.

Key Statistics

The Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan in Bidar is estimated to have housed around 2,000 students during its peak, making it one of the largest educational institutions in the Deccan region.

Source: Various historical accounts and scholarly articles (knowledge cutoff 2023)

Bidar, under the Bahmanis, became a prominent center for turquoise tile production, importing the raw material from Persia and developing a local industry.

Source: Historical records and archaeological findings (knowledge cutoff 2023)

Examples

Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur

The Gol Gumbaz, built by the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur, demonstrates the continued influence of Bahmani architectural traditions, particularly in its massive dome and use of stucco decoration. It is a prime example of how the Bahmani style evolved and adapted in the successor states.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶How did the Bahmani Sultans differ from the Delhi Sultanate in their architectural approach?

While both drew from Islamic traditions, the Bahmanis incorporated more local Deccan elements and experimented with new techniques like stucco decoration and turquoise tiling to a greater extent than the Delhi Sultanate. The Bahmanis also favored massive structures and a more robust aesthetic.