Model Question and Answers for APSC | Illustrate with suitable examples how syncretism became a part of Indian architecture during the mediaeval period. (APSC Mains 2020 GS- I)

Ans : Mediaeval architecture is a building style that developed in the Indian subcontinent from the 13th until the early 18th century, during the Delhi sultanate and Mughal Empire. The architectural styles of the period are a remarkable mixture of Islamic, Indian, Turkish, and Persian styles.
Syncretism became a part of Indian architecture
1. Amongst provincial styles, the architecture of Bengal and Jaunpur is regarded as distinct. In bengal muslim architects copied the local hut structure for their buildings.
2. Gujarat was said to have a markedly regional character for patrons borrowed elements from regional temple traditions such as toranas, lintels in mihrabs, carvings of bell and chain motifs, and carved panels depicting trees, for tombs, mosques and dargahs.
3. The fifteenth century white marble dargah of Shaikh Ahmad Khattu of Sarkhej is a good example of provincial style and it heavily influenced the form and decoration of Mughal tombs
4. The use of indigenous Rajasthani decorative elements is impressive, especially the small canopies or chhatris around the central dome in Humayun's Tomb and Agra fort.