Pathan architecture (also known as Pashtun architecture or Pathan style) is a style of Indo-Islamic architecture associated with the Delhi Sultanate period in the Indian subcontinent between the 12th and 16th centuries. The term was used by several nineteenth-century architectural historians, particularly James Fergusson, to describe the architectural traditions developed under the Turkic and Afghan dynasties of the Delhi Sultanate, including the Mamluk, Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid and Lodi dynasties.
The style represents one of the earliest major phases of Islamic architecture in northern India and is regarded as an important stage in the development of later Mughal architecture.
History The development of Pathan architecture began after the establishment of Muslim rule in northern India following the campaigns of Muhammad Ghori in the late twelfth century. Delhi emerged as the principal political and architectural centre under Qutb al-Din Aibak and the succeeding rulers of the Delhi Sultanate.
Early monuments incorporated materials from demolished or reused Hindu and Jain temples, resulting in a combination of Indian trabeate construction methods and Islamic arcuate forms.
During the Tughlaq, architecture became more austere and militaristic in appearance, with thick sloping walls and minimal ornamentation. The later Sayyid and Lodi periods introduced greater refinement in tomb construction and decorative detailing.
Characteristics
Pathan architecture combines Islamic architectural principles with indigenous Indian craftsmanship and construction techniques.
Common features include:
Pointed arches Rubble and stone masonry Domed structures Square and octagonal tomb plans Sloping defensive walls in Tughlaq architecture Surface carvings and geometric ornamentation Use of red sandstone and white marble contrasts
Major monuments
Qutb complex
The Qutb complex in Delhi is among the earliest surviving examples of Pathan architecture. It includes the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Qutb Minar, both begun during the reign of Qutb al-Din Aibak.
The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque incorporated reused pillars and fragments from earlier Hindu and Jain temples, while the Qutb Minar became one of the earliest monumental towers of Islamic India.
Tughlaq architecture
Architecture under the Tughlaq dynasty emphasized strength and simplicity. The Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq is regarded as a representative example of this phase, characterized by battered walls, minimal decoration and a fortress-like appearance.
Regional styles
Regional variations of Pathan architecture developed in Jaunpur, Bengal and Malwa.
In Jaunpur, the Sharqi rulers developed mosque architecture combining Hindu structural forms with Islamic arches.
In Bengal, the style adapted to local brick construction traditions. The Adina Mosque at Gaur is among the largest surviving monuments of the Bengal Sultanate.
At Mandu in Malwa, Afghan architectural traditions were adapted to sandstone construction and elevated plateau landscapes. The Roopmati Pavilion is a notable surviving structure from the region.
Legacy
Pathan architecture influenced the later development of Mughal architecture in India, particularly in the use of domed tombs, monumental gateways and the synthesis of Persian and Indian decorative traditions.
See also
Indo-Islamic architecture Delhi Sultanate Indo-Saracenic architecture Mughal architecture
References