Art & Architecture
UGC NET HISTORY – Solved PYQs (UNIT 6)
1. When did the nine cusped arches were for the first time used in Muslim architecture in India? (JUNE 2012)
(1) Buildings of Sikandar Lodi
(2) Buildings of Sher Shah
(3) Buildings of Nur Jahan
(4) Buildings of Shah Jahan
Answer: 4
the correct answer is (4) Buildings of Shah Jahan. The nine-cusped arch, a sophisticated architectural feature where the inner curve of the arch is decorated with nine decorative points or indentations, became a defining characteristic of the high Mughal style during the 17th century. While multi-cusped arches had appeared in simpler forms during the Sultanate and early Mughal periods, it was under Shah Jahan that the specific nine-cusped variety was standardized and used with unparalleled elegance and symmetry. This innovation was part of a broader architectural shift from the robust red sandstone constructions of the Akbari and Jahangiri eras toward the refined use of white marble. The use of these arches provided a rhythmic and delicate visual quality to imperial structures, most notably seen in the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) within the Red Forts of Delhi and Agra.
The transition to nine-cusped arches represented the “climax” of Mughal architectural evolution, where the structural elements became increasingly decorative. Unlike the earlier true arches or the four-centered “Tudor” style arches favored by Akbar, the Shahjahani arch was often supported by slender, foliated twin columns or “piers,” which enhanced the sense of lightness and openness in the palatial pavilions. This period also saw the perfection of the Pietra Dura (parchin kari) inlay technique, where semi-precious stones were embedded into marble to create intricate floral patterns that complemented the cusped geometry of the arches. Furthermore, the number nine held symbolic significance in Timurid and Mughal traditions, often associated with auspiciousness and imperial authority. Shah Jahan’s architects integrated these arches into a strictly symmetrical layout based on the Shahjahani grid, ensuring that every structural detail contributed to an overall sense of divine order and worldly majesty, a stylistic hallmark that distinguishes his buildings from the earlier Lodi or Suri styles which utilized simpler, less ornate arch forms.
2. What new stylistic feature is found in the Tomb of Khan-i-Jahan Telangani built at Delhi under the Sultans of Delhi? (JUNE 2012)
(1) Use of white marble against red sandstone
(2) True Arch
(3) Double Dome
(4) Octagonal in planning
Answer: 4
The correct answer is (4) Octagonal in planning.
The tomb of Khan-i-Jahan Telangani, built during the Tughlaq period in Delhi, represents a significant development in Indo-Islamic funerary architecture, particularly because of its octagonal plan, which was a relatively new stylistic innovation at that time in India. Prior to this, most early Sultanate tombs—such as those from the Slave and early Tughlaq periods—were predominantly square in plan, reflecting simpler and more rigid architectural forms. The adoption of the octagonal layout marked a shift toward more complex and symbolically rich designs, possibly influenced by Persian and Central Asian architectural traditions.
This tomb is often considered one of the earliest examples in India to employ the octagonal form, which later became highly influential in the evolution of Indo-Islamic architecture. The octagonal plan allowed for better spatial distribution and provided more surfaces for openings, arches, and decorative elements, thereby enhancing both structural balance and aesthetic appeal. This feature was later refined and widely used in Lodi and Mughal architecture, especially in garden tombs where symmetry and geometric planning became essential design principles.
The other options do not apply to this monument. The use of white marble against red sandstone became prominent later under the Mughals, especially during the reign of Shah Jahan. The true arch had already been introduced earlier during the Delhi Sultanate, particularly from the time of the Slave dynasty. The double dome is a later Mughal innovation, seen prominently in structures like Humayun’s Tomb and the Taj Mahal, and was not a feature of early Tughlaq architecture.
Thus, the tomb of Khan-i-Jahan Telangani is important for introducing the octagonal plan in Indian Islamic architecture, making option (4) the correct answer.
3. The Sultan Ghari was built as the mausoleum of (DEC 2012)
(1) Qutub-ud-din Aibak
(2) Rukn-ud-din Firoz
(3) Balban
(4) Nasir-ud-din Mahmud
Answer: 4
The correct answer is (4) Nasir-ud-din Mahmud.
The monument known as Sultan Ghari, located in Delhi, was built as the mausoleum of Nasir-ud-din Mahmud, the eldest son of Iltutmish of the Slave (Mamluk) dynasty. Nasir-ud-din Mahmud died prematurely in 1229 CE while serving as the governor of Bengal, and his father constructed this tomb in his memory around 1231 CE. It is considered the first Islamic mausoleum in India, marking an important milestone in the development of Indo-Islamic funerary architecture.
The term “Sultan Ghari” literally means “Sultan of the Cave” or “Cave King,” referring to the unique design of the tomb. Unlike later grand Mughal mausoleums, this structure has a somewhat fortified appearance, resembling a small fortress. The actual burial chamber lies underground, like a crypt, while the surface structure consists of a raised courtyard enclosed by high walls, with a domed octagonal platform marking the grave. This combination of subterranean burial and fortified enclosure is distinctive and reflects early experimentation in Islamic architecture in India.
Architecturally, Sultan Ghari shows the transitional phase of Indo-Islamic construction, where local Indian building traditions were combined with Islamic forms. The use of corbelled arches, temple spolia (reused materials from earlier Hindu-Jain structures), and limited ornamentation reflects the early stage of the Sultanate’s architectural evolution before the full development of true arches and domes.
The other options are incorrect. Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Slave dynasty, was buried in Lahore, not at Sultan Ghari. Rukn-ud-din Firuz had a short reign and is not associated with this tomb. Ghiyas ud din Balban has his own tomb in Delhi, notable for early use of the true arch, but it is a separate monument.
Sultan Ghari thus holds great historical and architectural significance as the earliest example of a royal tomb in India and as a precursor to the grand tradition of mausoleum architecture that would later culminate in monuments like Humayun’s Tomb and the Taj Mahal.
Therefore, Nasir-ud-din Mahmud is the correct answer.
4. Why was the Double Dome used in the Indo-Islamic architecture? (DEC 2012)
(1) To strengthen the buildings
(2) To give cooling effect inside the building
(3) To provide height to the buildings
(4) For the purpose of beauty
Answer: 3
The correct answer is (3) To provide height to the buildings.
The introduction of the double dome in Indo-Islamic architecture was primarily a structural and visual innovation aimed at achieving greater external height and grandeur without disturbing the interior proportions. This technique became prominent during the Mughal period, especially under rulers like Humayun and Shah Jahan. In a double dome structure, there are two separate domes—an inner dome that forms the ceiling of the interior space and an outer dome that is visible from the outside. The gap between the two allows architects to raise the external profile of the building, making it appear more imposing and majestic.
The key purpose of this design was to enhance the vertical elevation and monumental appearance of structures such as tombs and mosques, which was an important aesthetic and symbolic requirement in Islamic architecture. For instance, in monuments like Humayun’s Tomb and later the Taj Mahal, the outer dome appears massive and lofty from the outside, while the inner dome maintains a harmonious scale suitable for the interior chamber, avoiding an excessively high or disproportionate internal space.
Although the double dome may incidentally contribute to insulation and slight cooling, that was not its primary intention, making option (2) incorrect. Similarly, while it does add to the beauty of the structure, aesthetic appeal was a secondary outcome rather than the main functional reason, so option (4) is not the best answer. It was also not primarily introduced to strengthen buildings, so option (1) is incorrect.
This architectural feature reflects the advanced engineering and aesthetic sensibilities of Indo-Islamic builders, who sought to balance structural practicality with visual magnificence. The double dome became a hallmark of mature Mughal architecture, symbolizing imperial power, sophistication, and mastery over space and form.
Thus, the main purpose of using the double dome was to provide height and grandeur to buildings, making option (3) the correct answer.
5. Which Sultan of Delhi got Qutub Minar repaired, cleaned the derelict Hauz Khas and erected on its bank a spacious madrasa? (JUNE 2013)
(1) Iltutmish
(2) Alauddin Khalji
(3) Firuz Tughlaq
(4) Sikandar Lodi
Answer: 3
The correct answer is (3) Firuz Tughlaq.
Firoz Shah Tughlaq (r. 1351–1388 CE) is well known for his extensive works of restoration, conservation, and public welfare architecture, rather than only new constructions. He undertook the repair of the Qutub Minar after it had been damaged by lightning, and he added the top storeys, using a slightly different architectural style with marble and sandstone, which can still be distinguished from the earlier sections built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and Iltutmish.
He also played a crucial role in reviving the Hauz Khas, a large water reservoir originally constructed by Alauddin Khalji to supply water to Siri city. Over time, the tank had become silted and neglected, but Firoz Shah had it cleaned, restored, and brought back into use. On its banks, he built an impressive architectural complex that included a madrasa (Islamic college), his own tomb, pavilions, and other structures. This madrasa became an important center of learning in medieval Delhi, reflecting his interest in education and religious scholarship.
Firoz Shah Tughlaq is also noted for building canals, gardens, caravanserais, mosques, and cities such as Firozabad. His reign marks a shift toward public utility works and architectural restoration, distinguishing him from earlier rulers who focused more on conquest and monumental assertion.
The other options are incorrect because Iltutmish and Alauddin Khalji contributed to the expansion of the Qutub complex and construction of Hauz Khas respectively, but did not carry out these restoration works. Sikandar Lodi belonged to a later period and is not associated with these specific activities.
Thus, Firoz Shah Tughlaq is the ruler who repaired the Qutub Minar, restored Hauz Khas, and built the madrasa on its banks.