European colonists, with their unique ‘worldview ‘ and rich architectural history, introduced a variety of styles to India. These included the Neo-Classical, Romanesque, and Renaissance elements, which significantly influenced the evolution of Indian architecture. The initial colonial structures, such as functional warehouses and walled trading posts, later transformed into fortified towns along the coastline.
St. Francis Church at Cochin
The Portuguese, adapting to the Indian climate, brought the Iberian galleried ‘patio house’ to India and constructed Baroque churches in Goa. The Se Cathedral and Arch of Conception in Goa are prime examples of the Portuguese-Manueline style, a late Gothic style unique to Portugal. This style is characterized by maritime motifs and intricate stonework. The St. Francis Church in Cochin (Kochi), built in 1510 AD, is believed to be the first European church in India. The Portuguese also built the Bassein Fort near Mumbai, known for the ‘Matriz’ (Cathedral of St. Joseph), the Corinthian pillared hall, and the ‘Porte da Mer’ (sea gate).
Church of St. John at Kolkata
The Danish influence is visible in Tranquebar and Serampore, with their grid-like layouts and canals. The French gave Pondicherry (Puducherry) a distinct urban design with Cartesian grid plans and classical architectural patterns. Examples of French influence include the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges and the Eglise de Notre Dame de Lourdes in Puducherry.
The British left a lasting impact on Indian architecture, viewing themselves as successors to the Mughals and using architecture to display their power. They initially constructed factories but later built courts, schools, municipal halls, and ‘Dak bungalows.’ Churches and public buildings received more attention to architectural style, often drawing inspiration from leading British architects like Wren, Adam, and Nash. Most buildings were constructed with brick and stucco, though some later ones used stone. Churches, symbols of colonialism, were built in grand styles, with St. Mary’s Church in Fort St. George, Chennai, being a prime example.
Victoria Terminus
Neo-Gothic architecture flourished in India under the British, inspired by the Houses of Parliament in London. Notable examples include the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) in Mumbai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Queen’s College in Varanasi.
The transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown, the rise of Indian nationalism, and the introduction of railways led to the development of Indo-Saracenic architecture in the late 19th century. This hybrid style combined elements of Hindu, Mughal, and Gothic architecture, utilizing materials like concrete, glass, wrought and cast iron. Notable examples include the Victoria Memorial Hall in Kolkata, the Prince of Wales Museum in Mumbai, and the Maharaja’s Palace in Mysore.
Chepauk Palace
The architecture of New Delhi, planned as the new capital in 1911, represents the culmination of British architectural ventures in India. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed the Viceroy’s House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan), incorporating Indian elements like ‘chajjas,’ ‘jalis,’ and ‘chhattris.’ Herbert Baker designed the imposing North and South Blocks, while Robert Tor Russell designed Connaught Place and the Eastern and Western Courts.
St. Martin’s Garrison Church, built towards the end of the British Raj, showcases Dutch and German influences in its monolithic structure, which has a high square tower and deeply sunken window ledges.
Related Articles on Indian Architecture :
- Indus Valley Civilization
- Mauryan Architecture
- Sunga, Kushan and Satavahana Architecture
- Schools of Art
- Temple Architecture of India
- Jain Architecture
- Cave Architecture
- Stepwells
- Rajput Architecture
- Indo-Islamic Architecture
- Colonial Architecture
- Modern Architecture
- Sculpture in India
- World Heritage Sites of India