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Provincial Architecture: Malwa, Rana Kumbha’s Cultural Contribution | History Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Introduction

Malwa Style of Architecture:

  • Originated in the Malwa region during the 15th and 16th centuries.
  • Unlike other regions, the Muslim rulers of Malwa lacked a strong tradition of visual art.
  • Over time, they developed original architectural elements and adopted unique decorative motifs, giving their buildings a distinctive appearance.
  • Prominent examples of Malwa architecture can be seen in the cities of Dhar, Mandu, and Chanderi.

Important features

Based on Tughlaq style:

  • Battered walls
  • Pointed arches with spearhead fringe.
  • Combination of arch with pillar, lintel, and beam.
  • Buildings 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.
  • 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 mosques.
  • 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.
  • Front side of the basement to contain a series of arcaded chambers to be used as a serai.

Ashrafi Mahal at Mandu

  • The structure is oriented towards the Jami Masjid in Mandu.
  • It features a grand flight of stairs that aligns with and reflects the stairs of the mosque.
  • Comprises three separate buildings.
  • The tower is made of red sandstone.
  • Displays intricate patterns of inlaid marble.

Hushang Shah’s Tomb at Mandu

  • Constructed by Hushang Shah and finished by Mahmud I in 1440 A.D..
  • Located within a square enclosure adjacent to the western wall of the Jami Masjid in Mandu.
  • Built entirely of marble.

Hindola Mahal at Mandu

Built by Hushang Shah:

  • The walls of the building are thick.
  • The building has a battered slope, which gives it a swinging appearance, hence the name.
  • The structure was designed for women.
  • It has a ‘T’ shape plan.

Jahaaz Mahal at Mandu

  • Shape, Dimension, and Position: These elements create the illusion of a ship.
  • The roof features a series of open pavilions, kiosks, and overhanging balconies.
  • The structure extends along the edge of the lake.

Third Phase:

  • This phase is characterized by less austere and more fanciful structures, suggesting a lifestyle of ease and luxury.
  • Main examples include pavilions, loggias, kiosks, and terraces.

Baz Bahadur’s Palace (Mandu):

  • Functioning as a summer palace, it features various pavilions.
  • The ground storey consists of compartments arranged around a central courtyard, often with pools or fountains.
  • All surfaces are adorned with painted tiles.

Kushk Mahal (Chanderi):

  • Originally seven storeys high, only four storeys remain today.

Jami Masjid at Chanderi:

  • Notable for the shape of its three domes.
  • The arches forming the open facade are also distinct in shape.

Rana Kumbha’s Cultural Contribution

Rana Kumba (1438-1468): A Great Ruler of Mewar:

  • Rana Kumba was a notable king of Mewar during the medieval period.
  • He was known for being a generous supporter of literature and art.

An estimate of Rana Kumbha as a patron of literature and art

Music

Music and Contributions:

  • He had a strong passion for music and was an accomplished musician himself, particularly known for his skill in playing the Veena.
  • He authored several important works on music, including Sangit Raj,Sangit Mimansa,Sangit Ratnakar, and Sudprabandh.

Architecture

Rana Kumba's Contributions to Architecture and Defense:

  • Rana Kumba supported numerous craftsmen and sculptors, with a particular focus on military architecture.
  • He reinforced the defenses of Chittor and constructed a road with seven entrances.
  • Rana Kumba built 32 forts and laid the groundwork for Kumbhalgarh fort.
  • One of his most significant architectural achievements was the Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame) in Chittor, commemorating his triumph over Malwa.
  • He also erected the Kumbha Stambh (Victory Tower) at Chittor, adorned with intricate sculptures of Hindu deities and scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
  • The tower features numerous inscriptions.
  • Rana Kumba founded the city of Basantpur and constructed various inns, palaces, ponds, schools, and temples.

Literature

He was skilled in ancient Indian texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, and grammar.

  • He wrote a commentary on Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda and explained the Chandisatakam.
  • He authored four dramas using Sanskrit, Prakrit, and three regional languages.
  • He supported renowned scholars, such as Atri and Mahesa, who wrote the edict of the Chittor Kirti Stambha during his reign.
The document Provincial Architecture: Malwa, Rana Kumbha’s Cultural Contribution | History Optional for UPSC (Notes) is a part of the UPSC Course History Optional for UPSC (Notes).
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FAQs on Provincial Architecture: Malwa, Rana Kumbha’s Cultural Contribution - History Optional for UPSC (Notes)

1. Who was Rana Kumbha and what role did he play in the cultural development of Malwa?
Ans. Rana Kumbha was a prominent ruler of the Mewar kingdom in the 15th century, known for his significant contributions to literature, art, and architecture. His reign marked a flourishing of cultural activities in Malwa, as he patronized various poets and artists, fostering a vibrant cultural environment.
2. What are some notable architectural contributions of Rana Kumbha in Malwa?
Ans. Rana Kumbha is credited with the construction of several impressive forts and temples, including the famous Kumbhalgarh Fort. His architectural style often blended Rajput and Islamic influences, characterized by intricate carvings and grand structures that showcased the artistic prowess of the time.
3. How did Rana Kumbha support literature during his reign?
Ans. Rana Kumbha was a great patron of literature and encouraged poets and scholars at his court. He himself was a poet and is known for his literary works, including the "Padmavat," which highlights the cultural richness of his era and his support for the arts.
4. What was the significance of Malwa's provincial architecture during Rana Kumbha's rule?
Ans. The provincial architecture of Malwa during Rana Kumbha's rule is significant as it reflects the unique blend of local traditions and influences from other cultures. This architectural style not only served defensive purposes but also symbolized the political power and cultural identity of the region.
5. How did Rana Kumbha's reign influence the cultural landscape of Rajasthan?
Ans. Rana Kumbha's reign greatly influenced the cultural landscape of Rajasthan by promoting a rich heritage of literature, music, and art. His contributions laid the foundation for future rulers and established Mewar as a cultural hub, enhancing the region's historical significance in Indian culture.
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