Modern Architecture in Indian History

The entrance of Europeans into India contributed significantly to the enhancement of our nation’s architectural heritage.

This era witnessed a fusion between the native architectural styles of India and the diverse European architectural approaches. During the initial phases of colonial rule, there was an effort to establish authority through classical models. As time progressed, colonial architecture evolved into what is now referred to as Indo-Saracenic architecture.

The colonial architectural footprint materialized in the form of institutional, civic, and functional structures like post offices, railway stations, government buildings, and lodgings.

Prominent Monuments Erected by Different Colonial Empires

Portuguese

The architectural legacy of the Portuguese is vividly displayed in their churches, cathedrals, and educational institutions. These ecclesiastical structures were crafted in the Iberian architectural style.

• The impact of Portuguese colonization is most pronounced in Western India, notably Goa, Daman, and Diu.
• The Basilica do Bom Jesus in Old Goa, characterized by its baroque style and three stories, evokes memories of the late Renaissance architectural era.
• The Cathedral de Santa Catarina stands as a fusion of Tuscan and Corinthian elements, housing a grand Golden Bell.
• Other religious edifices that prominently exhibit Portuguese architectural influence include the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, Convent of Santa Monica, Chapel of the Weeping Cross, and Sanctuary of Saint Joseph Vaz.
• Additional noteworthy Portuguese monuments across India encompass the Bandel Church in West Bengal, situated along the River Hooghly.
• In Mumbai, structures like the Madh Fort, Castella de Aguada, and St. John’s Baptist Church serve as lasting remnants of the Portuguese colonial presence.

French Influence on Indian Architecture

France held a significant presence within India, leaving an indelible mark on its architectural landscape. The echoes of Parisian architectural styles resonated across various corners of the country. French architects seamlessly integrated local raw materials and adapted to the region’s climatic conditions, resulting in a distinct architectural amalgamation.

• French architectural traits included the characteristic French shutter windows, intricate carvings embellishing archways, and the hallmark of narrow street facades that embodied the essence of their style.
• Notable monuments that encapsulate this fusion can be found in places like Puducherry, Bengal, Karaikal, and Mahe.
• The layout of French towns was characterized by three defining elements: the systematic French grid patterns, well-defined sectors, and streets intersecting at right angles.
• These features intricately wove the fabric of the urban plan in French settlements.
• Prominent landmarks and structures bearing the French architectural imprint encompass the Joan of Arc statue at Dumas Street, the iconic ‘Le Café,’ the Mairie building that presently houses the Puducherry Municipality, the elegant French consulate building, and the ‘Le Foyer du Soldat‘ – a hall dedicated to veteran soldiers, reflecting the enduring legacy of French design in India.

British Architecture

During the 18th century, British officers wanted to bring a style called Palladian to India. They built a famous building named Constantia in Lucknow to show this style.

• In the 19th century, people wanted to mix the best parts of Indian and Western architecture. FS Growse started this idea.
• The museum in Jaipur and the Moor Market in Chennai show this kind of architecture.
• G Wittet made the Gateway of India in Mumbai. It looks like the Mughal style.
• Victoria Terminus station in Mumbai is another building. It’s from the Victorian Gothic revival style. This means it takes ideas from traditional Indian architecture. It was designed by FW Stevens.
• Chhatrapathi Shivaji Terminus is also a building of this type.

Indo-Saracenic Style

When India was moving towards becoming a united nation after the Victorian time, the buildings started to show the feelings of that time. They were a mix of the old powerful empire style and the new sense of our own nation. This mix led to the Indo-Saracenic style. This style took things from our old Indian and Indo-Islamic buildings and mixed them with the Gothic revival and Neo-classical styles that were liked in England during Victorian times.

Indo-Saracenic Architectural Features

Bulbous Domes

Bulbous domes are special parts of Indo-Saracenic buildings. They look like half a ball on top of a building. People think these domes are like the sky above us. Examples: Egmore Railway Station, Chennai Museum.

Overhanging Eaves (Chhajja)

Overhanging eaves stick out from the walls to keep them safe. They were common in old Mughal buildings. Examples: Tomb of Salim Chishti, Fatehpur Sikri; Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Vaulted Roofs

Vaulted roofs have arches that cross each other. They were used in buildings from the Islamic period. Examples: St. Matthias’ Church, Chennai.

Chhatris

Chhatris are like little roofs on top of buildings in Indian style. They can also be decorations on corners or entrances. They show that the place is important and rich. Examples: Tomb of Humayun; Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Minarets

Minarets are tall towers with a special shape on top. They can stand alone or be taller than other parts of a building. Examples: Senate house in Chennai.

Pavilions

Pavilions are small buildings next to big ones. They can be separate or connected with walkways. Examples: British forts and palaces.

Cusped Arches

Cusped arches have parts that look like curves meeting. They became common in Mughal buildings. British builders also used them and added decorations. Examples: Chennai corporation building, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Chhatrapathi Shivaji Terminus.

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