The architectural heritage of the Indian subcontinent is a rich tapestry woven from diverse influences, styles, and traditions that span several millennia. Understanding this heritage requires a nuanced grasp of the historical classification and terminology that define various architectural periods and styles. This abstract provides an overview of the classification systems and terminological frameworks used in the study of the architecture of the Indian subcontinent, highlighting their significance and evolution.

Historical Classification:

Architecture in the Indian subcontinent can be classified into several major periods based on historical, cultural, and stylistic criteria. The primary periods include:

Ancient Period (up to 6th century CE): This period encompasses early architectural forms such as the rock-cut caves, Buddhist stupas, and Hindu temples. Notable examples include the Ajanta and Ellora caves and the Sanchi Stupa. This period is characterized by its focus on religious and ritualistic structures, with a strong emphasis on symbolic representation.

Medieval Period (7th to 16th centuries CE): The medieval period is marked by the rise of distinct regional styles and the construction of grand temples and forts. The Dravidian style, prevalent in South India, features intricately carved temple towers (Shikharas) and large courtyards. In contrast, the Nagara style, dominant in North India, is known for its curvilinear towers and complex temple layouts. The Islamic influence introduced by various dynasties, such as the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, brought new elements, including domes, minarets, and expansive gardens.

Colonial Period (17th to mid-20th centuries CE): The arrival of European powers, particularly the British, introduced colonial architectural styles that fused Western elements with traditional Indian forms. This period saw the construction of monumental buildings such as the Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and the Rashtrapati Bhavan, reflecting a blend of Gothic, Neoclassical, and Indo-Saracenic styles.

Post-Independence Period (mid-20th century onwards): After India gained independence in 1947, there was a shift towards modernist architecture. This period is characterized by experimentation with new materials, techniques, and international styles. Prominent architects like Charles Correa and B.V. Doshi contributed to the development of modern Indian architecture while incorporating local traditions and climate-responsive designs.

Indian architecture, historical classification, architectural terminology

A. Cunningham, Coins of Ancient India from the Earliest Times, London, 1891.

A. Cunningham, The Bhilsa Topes or Buddhist Monuments of Central India: Comprising a Brief Historical Sketch of the Rise, Progress and Decline of Buddhism with an Account of the Opening and Examination of the Various Groups of Topes around Bhilsa, London, 1854 (reprint, 1997).

A. Gardiner, The Fall of the Sikh Empire, Delhi, 1898 (reprint 1999); see also Alexander Cunningham, Archaeological Survey of India, Four Reports Made During the Years 1862- 63-64-65, Vol. I, Delhi, 1972, p. xix.

Afzal Husain, “Akbar’s Religious Policy from 1560 to 1579: A Re-Examination”, Third Frame: Literature, Culture and Society, vol. I, no. 3, July-Sept. 2008.

E. Errington and V.S. Curtis, From Persepolis to the Punjab: Exploring the Past in Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, London, British Museum Press, 2007.

E. Errington, “Ancient Afghanistan through the Eyes of Charles Masson: The Masson Project at the British Museum”, International Institute for Asian Studies Newsletter (March 2002).

E. Errington, “Numismatic Evidence for Dating the Buddhist Remains of Gandhāra”, Silk Road Art and Archaeology 6, 1999/2000, Papers in Honour of Francine Tissot, pp. 191-216.

E.B. Havell, Indian Architecture: Its Psychology, Structure, and History from the First Muhammadan Invasion to the Present Day, London, 1913.

Fergusson, History of Indian and Eastern Architecture, revised and edited by James Burgess & R.P. Spiers, London, 1910, (2 Volumes), vol. 1.

Giovanni Battista Piranesi, The Complete Etchings - an Illustrated Catalogue, Vols. 1 & 2, San Francisco, 1994.

H.H. Wilson, Ariana Antiqua: A Descriptive Account of the Antiquities and Coins of Afghanistan with a Memoir on the Buildings Called Topes, London, 1841 (reprint Delhi, 1971).

H.H. Wilson, Ariana Antiqua: A Descriptive Account of the Antiquities and Coins of Afghanistan with a Memoir of the Buildings Called Topes, reprint 1997.