When we walk through the streets of Delhi – whether it’s the majestic boulevards of Lutyens’ Delhi or the vibrant alleys of Old Delhi – we’re essentially walking through layers of history. Among these layers, one influence stands out like the intricate inlay on a marble jaali: Mughal architecture.
While the grandeur of structures like the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Jama Masjid remains untouched, what’s truly fascinating is how their design language continues to shape modern Delhi’s architecture — from public buildings to private homes, hotels, and even malls.
As a blogger deeply fascinated by Delhi’s architectural evolution, I couldn’t resist exploring how the legacy of the Mughals finds expression in the capital’s contemporary structures.
This post is my journey into that aesthetic blend of past and present – a narrative where domes meet glass facades, arches flirt with steel frames, and courtyards reclaim their space in luxury homes.
A Glimpse Back: What Defines Mughal Architecture?
Before we dive into its modern influence, let’s take a quick refresher on what makes Mughal architecture so iconic.
Mughal architecture was born out of a fusion between Islamic, Persian, Turkish, and Indian styles. It flourished between the 16th and 18th centuries during the reign of emperors like Babur, Akbar, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb.
- Some defining elements include:
- Large Domes and Minarets
- Chhatris (elevated domed pavilions)
- Jaalis (latticed screens)
- Iwan-style arches (vaulted hallways or entrances)
- Symmetrical gardens (Charbagh layout)
- Use of red sandstone and white marble
- Intricate carvings and calligraphy
If you’ve been to Humayun’s Tomb or Jama Masjid, you’ve already been swept away by these elements. But what’s truly impressive is how they subtly — and sometimes boldly — show up in modern structures across the city.
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The Fusion: Mughal Elements in Modern Delhi
1. Lutyens’ Delhi – A Colonial Take with Mughal Roots
Sir Edwin Lutyens, in designing New Delhi during the early 20th century, embraced India’s rich architectural heritage rather than overlooking it. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is a fine example of how Mughal architecture inspired colonial structures.
Notice the domes, the chhatris, and the intricate jaali work used throughout the estate. These elements, although interpreted through a more restrained British lens, echo the symmetry and elegance of Mughal design. The Mughal Gardens within the estate are a direct homage to the Charbagh garden layout.
Even today, architects designing government buildings in Delhi continue to adopt this style to lend gravitas and a sense of rootedness.
2. Contemporary Homes and Villas – The Return of the Courtyard
Take a stroll through South Delhi’s plush neighborhoods like Vasant Kunj or Sainik Farms, and you’ll spot something intriguing: courtyard-centric homes, arched windows, and jaali-inspired partitions in luxury villas.
This is not just about aesthetics; it’s smart design. Courtyards, a staple of Mughal homes and havelis, allow for natural ventilation and light. In a city like Delhi where summers can be brutal, this old-world wisdom is making a solid comeback — reimagined for the modern Indian family.
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3. Five-Star Hotels – Luxury Meets Legacy
Delhi’s hospitality industry has beautifully integrated Mughal architecture into its identity. Think of The Oberoi, ITC Maurya, or The Leela Palace.
The Leela Palace New Delhi is one of the best examples. Its facade features domes, jaali motifs, and arches that are unmistakably Mughal.
ITC Maurya’s interiors borrow heavily from Mughal aesthetics, with ornate archways, inlay work, and wall art that pays homage to the miniature paintings of the era.
These luxury spaces blend old-world opulence with contemporary comfort, giving guests a royal experience rooted in Delhi’s heritage.
4. Metro Stations and Public Spaces – A Subtle Salute
Did you know that the Jama Masjid Metro Station features arches inspired by the Mughal gateway nearby? Or that Kashmere Gate station subtly reflects the design of the historic gate it’s named after?
In recent years, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has made conscious efforts to incorporate local cultural and architectural references into station designs. While the structural requirements of a metro station differ vastly from Mughal monuments, elements like arches, color palettes, and geometric patterns nod respectfully to that heritage.
5. Commercial Spaces – Malls and Offices with a Twist
Some malls and office spaces have begun to embrace traditional design to stand out. For example:
DLF Emporio, one of Delhi’s poshest malls, integrates Mughal-style archways, chandeliers, and floral motifs into its luxury ambience.
Boutique offices in Hauz Khas and Mehrauli often restore old havelis or embed jaali work and arches into their interiors to offer a unique experience that feels both regal and rustic.
Why the Mughal Influence Still Matters
You might wonder — with all the glass-and-steel modernism, why are architects still borrowing from the Mughal era?
Here’s why:
Climate Responsiveness: Elements like courtyards, thick walls, and jaalis aren’t just beautiful — they’re sustainable. They regulate temperature and light, making them perfect for Delhi’s weather.
Cultural Identity: Mughal motifs help connect a building to its location. In a city like Delhi, which was once the heart of the Mughal empire, these elements root a structure in local heritage.
Aesthetic Appeal: Let’s face it — Mughal design is visually stunning. Its symmetry, elegance, and attention to detail appeal to both designers and clients.
Wrapping Up
Delhi’s architecture tells a story — one that’s still unfolding. What makes the city so captivating is not just its monuments, but how their essence continues to inspire the new. Mughal architecture isn’t stuck in history books or behind ASI barricades; it lives on in every jaali-adorned villa, every domed rooftop bar, every shadow cast by an arch in a luxury mall.
As we continue to urbanize and expand, the Mughal influence reminds us of the beauty of balance between form and function, past and present, art and utility.
So take a moment the next time you’re driving past a new apartment complex or sipping chai in a courtyard-style cafe. Look around. You just might find yourself in the presence of something timeless.
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