India’s rich architectural heritage is vividly expressed through its intricate doors, windows, and jharokhas. These elements are not merely functional; they are imbued with deep symbolism and aesthetic significance, reflecting the cultural, religious, and historical contexts of their times.
From ancient to medieval India, the construction of doors, windows and jharokas (stone windows projecting from a wall) was influenced by various factors, including regional traditions, climatic conditions, and social practices. For instance, temple doors were often adorned with carvings of deities, mythological scenes, and sacred symbols, serving both a decorative and didactic purpose.
These carvings were meant to educate devotees and enhance their spiritual experience as they entered the sacred space. Similarly, architectural elements such as jharokhas and jalis were essential for ventilation and cooling in hot and dry regions like those found in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The latticework in windows allowed air to circulate while minimising the harsh sunlight entering the interiors. This not only kept the buildings cool but also created beautiful patterns of light and shadow inside, adding to the aesthetic appeal. Let’s delve into the most prominent examples of these architectural marvels, showcasing their beauty and the symbolism inherent in them.
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The gopuram gates of South Indian temples like the Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Annamalaiyar Temple in Thiruvannamalai, and Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, amongst many others, stand as prominent examples of the extraordinary grandeur of Indian doors.
These towering gateways are adorned with an astonishing array of sculptures and carvings that depict deities, mythological scenes, and celestial beings, showcasing the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology. Each gopuram is a testament to the intricate craftsmanship and artistic vision of the artisans who painstakingly created them over centuries.
The vibrant colors, detailed iconography, and monumental scale of these structures not only serve as an awe-inspiring introduction to the sacred spaces they guard but also symbolise the divine connection between heaven and the earth.
These gates play a crucial role in the spiritual experience of devotees, guiding them visually and symbolically towards the divine. The gopurams’ elaborate decorations narrate stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and other sacred texts, thus educating and inspiring worshippers as they enter the temple precincts.
Similarly, the Buland Darwaza, or “Gate of Magnificence,” at Fatehpur Sikri stands as one of the most iconic and grandiose examples of Mughal architecture, epitomising the power and aesthetic sensibilities of Emperor Akbar’s reign.
Erected to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Gujarat, this towering structure reaches a height of 54 meters, making it one of the highest gateways in the world. The Buland Darwaza is constructed from red sandstone with inlays of white and black marble, creating a striking visual contrast.
Its imposing presence is enhanced by the intricate carvings and inscriptions that adorn its surface, including verses from the Quran and Akbar’s own proclamations of religious tolerance.
The gateway’s design incorporates both Persian and Indian architectural elements, reflecting the syncretic cultural ethos of the Mughal Empire. As visitors approach the Buland Darwaza, they are met with a sense of awe and reverence, drawn in by its sheer scale and the artistry of its details.
This monumental door not only served as a ceremonial entrance to the Jama Masjid but also symbolised Akbar’s vision of a unified and culturally diverse empire.
In Indian architecture, the construction of windows extends beyond mere functionality as conduits of light and air and evolves into profound symbols and pieces of art, showcasing the philosophical and artistic genius of craftsmen and builders.
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One of the most celebrated examples of this transformation is the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, built in 1573, renowned for its exquisite stone latticework windows, known as jalis. The intricate designs of these jalis, especially the famous ‘tree of life’, are masterpieces of Indo-Islamic architecture.
These windows symbolise the delicate interplay of light and shadow, blending aesthetic beauty with functional elegance. Jalis of the Mughal-era Taj Mahal and the intricate windows of the Rani Ki Vav stepwell in Gujarat are all notable examples of this tradition.
In the Taj Mahal, the jalis are carved with such precision that they allow light to filter through in soft, ethereal patterns, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere within the mausoleum.
The windows in Rani Ki Vav not only serve to ventilate the stepwell but also feature elaborate carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology, adding layers of narrative and spiritual meaning to the functional elements.
The intricately designed overhanging enclosed balconies prominently seen in the palaces and havelis of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat are called Jharokhas. Their aesthetic appeal lies in their detailed carvings, exquisite designs, and harmonious integration into the overall architectural style of the building.
Made from materials like sandstone, marble, or wood, jharokhas are adorned with elaborate motifs, floral patterns, and geometric designs that showcase the finesse of traditional Indian craftsmanship.
The Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is a beautiful example with a total of 953 jharokhas carved out of pure pink sandstone. Jharokhas frequently incorporate symbols that hold cultural and historical significance. Phalodi Fort, Jodhpur and Zenana Mahal, also in Jodhpur, are some of beautiful examples of this marvel.
The doors, windows, and jharokhas of India are not just architectural features; they are embodiments of cultural narratives, artistic expression, and historical legacy. These examples highlight how these structures in Indian architecture have transcended their utilitarian roles to become embodiments of artistic and philosophical expression.
They reflect the builders’ deep understanding of light, space, and decoration, elevating architecture to a form of storytelling and spiritual contemplation. As integral components of temples, palaces, and everyday dwellings, these elements narrate tales of spirituality, identity, and human creativity.
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This story first appeared on MeMeraki.
MeMeraki is India’s first culture tech platform, using technology to empower and accelerate the artisan creator economy. Their mission is to digitise every heritage art and craft of India to ultimately create sustainable livelihoods for artisans.
The lead image on top depicts Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, which has 953 jharokas carved out of pink sandstone. (Photo courtesy MeMeraki)
Surabhi Shubham is an art historian with a strong academic background.
