vii. Modern Architecture

UPSC Full Course [English]

About Lesson

vii. Modern Architecture

The Europeans initially arrived in India as traders, but over time, they gained political control and established colonial rule. Along with their dominance, they introduced the influences of the Industrial Revolution and European architectural styles. By the early 20th century, some Indian architects were trained in these European styles and began adapting them to the local context. Architects like Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn, who were commissioned for prominent projects in India, greatly influenced Indian architecture and helped ignite a new trend in Modern Architecture.

Evolution of Modern Architecture

Portuguese

Few places can rival the magnificence of Goa’s religious and secular architecture, which flourished as the prosperous seat of the Portuguese in India from 1530 to 1835.

Among the surviving churches, the Church of the Holy Spirit stands out as one of the most significant examples of Goa’s architectural heritage.

The Portuguese introduced Gothic and Baroque architecture in India.

With its three floors and baroque design, the Basilica do Bom Jesus in Old Goa is reminiscent of late Renaissance architecture.
The large Golden Bell is housed at the Cathedral de Santa Catarina, which combines Tuscan and Corinthian architectural elements.
The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, Convent of Santa Monica, Chapel of the Weeping Cross, Sanctuary of Saint Joseph Vaz, and other religious buildings constructed during their rule also heavily use Portuguese architectural elements.
The Bandel Church, located on the banks of the River Hooghly in West Bengal, is another well-known Portuguese structure in India.

French

Numerous locations in India display Parisian architectural designs.
French architecture utilised regionally-sourced materials and took local climatic factors into account.
The French style included French shutter windows, carvings on archways, and thin street fronts.

British

The British officer wanted to implement the Palladian style in the 18th century. Constantia, a well-known example of a structure in this style, was built by General Martin in Lucknow.
A trend to incorporate the greatest features of Indian and Western architecture emerged in the 19th century.
Example: It can be seen in the Moor Market in Chennai and the Museum in Jaipur.
The Gateway of India in Mumbai was designed by G Wittet, who used a number of Mughal features.

vii. Modern Architecture

Do not copy. Your ID will be blocked.