Indo-Islamic Architecture — Set 3
Arts & Culture · भारत-इस्लामी स्थापत्य · Questions 21–30 of 50
The 'Jami Masjid' of Gulbarga is unique because it lacks which standard mosque feature?
Correct Answer: D. Open Courtyard
The Jami Masjid in Gulbarga is a rare example of a completely roofed mosque without an open courtyard. This design was likely influenced by Spanish or Turkish architectural styles. It reflects the experimental nature of the Bahmani Sultanate's builders.
Which ruler built the 'Purana Qila' in Delhi after defeating Humayun?
Correct Answer: A. Sher Shah Suri
Sher Shah Suri constructed the Purana Qila on the site of the legendary Indraprastha. The Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque inside the fort is a masterpiece of pre-Mughal Indo-Islamic art. It shows a transition toward the refined aesthetics seen in later Mughal periods.
What is the 'Charbagh' layout in Mughal architecture?
Correct Answer: C. A quadrilateral garden divided by water channels
Charbagh is a Persian-style garden layout that symbolizes the four gardens of Paradise mentioned in the Quran. The garden is divided into four smaller plots by intersecting walkways or water canals. Humayun's Tomb and the Taj Mahal are the best examples of this layout.
The 'Jama Masjid' in Delhi, one of the largest mosques in India, was built by?
Correct Answer: D. Shah Jahan
Shah Jahan commissioned the Jama Masjid in the mid-17th century using red sandstone and white marble. It can accommodate more than 25,000 people in its massive courtyard. The mosque stands on a high platform, making it visible from a distance.
The 'Moti Masjid' located inside the Agra Fort was built using which material?
Correct Answer: A. White Marble
Shah Jahan built the Pearl Mosque (Moti Masjid) entirely of white marble for his court. It is renowned for its sheer elegance and perfect proportions. The mosque shines like a pearl, which gives it its descriptive name.
Which element of Indo-Islamic architecture is a 'Jali'?
Correct Answer: D. A perforated stone screen
Jali refers to intricate latticed screens carved from stone or marble. These screens allow air to circulate while reducing glare and providing privacy. The Jali work in the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in Ahmedabad is world-famous for its tree of life motif.
The 'Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula' is often called the 'Baby Taj' because it was the first to use?
Correct Answer: A. Extensive White Marble and Pietra Dura
Commissioned by Nur Jahan for her father, this tomb marked a transition from red sandstone to white marble architecture. It was the first Mughal structure to feature extensive semiprecious stone inlay work. Its delicate craftsmanship directly influenced the design of the Taj Mahal.
The 'Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque' was constructed by reusing materials from which previous structures?
Correct Answer: B. Hindu and Jain Temples
Qutub-ud-din Aibak built this mosque by using columns and materials from 27 dismantled temples. This practice was common during the early phase of the Delhi Sultanate. The mosque is part of the Qutub complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Which Mughal monument is built in the middle of a lake at Sasaram?
Correct Answer: A. Tomb of Sher Shah Suri
The tomb of Sher Shah Suri is a magnificent sandstone mausoleum situated in the center of an artificial lake. It is designed in a three-tiered octagonal shape. This monument symbolizes the fusion of Afghan and Indian architectural ideas.
The 'Ibadat Khana' or House of Worship was constructed by Akbar at which location?
Correct Answer: D. Fatehpur Sikri
Akbar built the Ibadat Khana in 1575 for theological discussions among scholars of different religions. This reflected his religious tolerance and desire to create a universal faith (Din-i-Ilahi). The structure is part of the extensive royal complex at Fatehpur Sikri.