Explanation:

Explanation :

Art and Architecture under Delhi Sultanate :

The Delhi Sultanate was a Muslim dynasty that ruled over the Indian subcontinent for almost three centuries. The period saw a great deal of architectural development, with many new buildings and landmarks being constructed during this time. The Delhi Sultanate was founded in 1206 by the Turkic general Qutb ud-Din Aibak, who became the first sultan of Delhi. The dynasty reached its zenith under the third sultan, Ala ud-Din Khalji (ruled 1296–1316), and declined after his death. It was eventually overthrown by the Mughal Empire in 1526. During the three centuries of its existence, the Delhi Sultanate witnessed a great deal of architectural activity.

The architecture of the Delhi Sultanate was heavily influenced by Islamic styles from Persia and Central Asia. However, there was also a significant Indian element to many of the buildings constructed during this period. This can be seen in the use of local materials, such as sandstone and marble, as well as in the incorporation of Hindu architectural features into Muslim buildings. The Delhi Sultanate was a time of great architectural achievement, with many new landmarks being built that have come to define India’s Islamic heritage.

Features of the Delhi Sultanate Architecture :

• Use of local materials such as sandstone and marble
• Incorporation of Hindu architectural features into Muslim buildings
• Construction of new cities, such as Jahanpanah and Firozabad
• Development of a unique Islamic style that blended elements from Persia and Central Asia with Indian influences.
• Arch and Dome’s construction was popular
• Pillars, Jalis, and Chhatris were used for decoration
• Minarets were used to call people to prayer
• Slab and Beam construction was used for roofs 

Art and Architecture under dynasties :

Lodi Style Architecture

• The Lodi dynasty developed a distinct architectural style known as the "Lodi style" or "Pathan style." This style combined elements of the pre-existing Indo-Islamic architecture with influences from Central Asia and Persia. It emphasised simplicity with the use of sturdy materials like stone and brick.
• Double domes: During their rule, they introduced a new form of Islamic architecture that featured double domes. Double domes are built of two layers, with the inner layer providing a ceiling to the interior of the building and the outer layer crowning the building. This technique enabled the ceiling inside to be placed lower and in better relation to the interior space it covers. Example- the tomb of Sikandar Lodi, which is located in Lodhi Gardens in Delhi.

Tughlaq Style Architecture 

• The Tughlaq dynasty made significant contributions to art and architecture during their rule in India. 
• Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq and Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq contributed a lot to the development of the Indo-Persian style of architecture 
• Tughalqs built huge palace-foresters complexes in the Tughlakabad 
• The Tughlaq buildings show stark simlicity and sobriety, probably indicating less financial resources as well as puritanical tests. Slopping walls and a dark appearance characterise the buildings. Some notable Tughlaq monuments were the fort of Tughlaquabad, the tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq which marked a new phase in Indo-Islamic architecture by serving as a model for later tombs and the fort of Adilabad.

Khilji Style Architecture :

During the Khilji dynasty, which was the second Muslim dynasty ruling the Delhi Sultanate from 1290 to 1320, the Indo-Islamic architectural form was still in its formative stage but witnessed some progress in the late 13th century.

• One of the key figures during this period was Ala-ud-din Khilji, who ascended the throne of Delhi in 1296. He emerged as a prominent patron of Islamic architecture and spearheaded crucial developments in the field. 
• His notable architectural endeavors included the expansion of the Qutb-mosque. The proportions of the minaret were doubled compared to those established a century earlier.
• Another remarkable architectural achievement of this period is the Alai Darwaza, which was completed in 1305. It stands out for its inventive arches, walling techniques, dome support systems, and surface decorations. The Alai Darwaza incorporates indigenous features seamlessly into its design, skillfully merging Indian and Islamic architectural elements.
• Jamaat Khana Masjid was built at the tomb of Nizam-ud-din Auliya, a renowned saint of the period, and was erected towards the end of Khilji rule. 
• Several other buildings were also constructed in the Qutb area, including a college and the tomb of Ala-ud-din Khilji. 

Notable example : One of the most impressive buildings erected during the Delhi Sultanate period is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. Built in 1190 CE, it is one of the earliest mosques in India, and its construction was overseen by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi.