In Indian architectural history, domes have played a significant role, appearing in Buddhist stupas, Jain temples, and the opulence of Mughal buildings. These constructions were not just technical achievements but also symbolic representations of the sacred, whether they were the bulbous, elaborately decorated domes of Islamic architecture or the early domical forms found in stupas. Domes were typically constructed atop square or octagonal bases, connecting earthly shapes with celestial aspirations. In Hindu traditions, corbels were used, while in Islamic styles, squinches were used. Crowning everything from royal tombs to prayer rooms, they frequently symbolized the heavens. A silent yet potent reminder of the dome’s structural and spiritual brilliance, its concave forms also improved acoustics by producing whispering galleries where even the smallest sounds can travel.
1) Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
The Great Stupa at Sanchi, built in the 3rd century BCE by Emperor Ashoka, is located in Madhya Pradesh and stands about 54 feet high with a diameter of 120 feet. It is one of the oldest stone structures in India, known for its grand hemispherical dome and intricately carved gateways (toranas) depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life.
2) Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal, built between 1632 and 1648 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its grand white marble dome that rises 73 meters high. Masterpiece of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles with striking symmetry and ornamental detail.
3) The Dome of Maharaja Sayajirao University, Baroda
Crowning the Faculty of Arts building was completed in the early 20th century under the patronage of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Inspired by Indo-Saracenic architecture, this iconic dome stands as a symbol of Baroda’s cultural renaissance, blending Mughal, Maratha, and Gothic elements in its design. It is the second largest masonry dome in Asia.
4) Alai Darwaza, Delhi
The Alai Darwaza, built in 1311 by Sultan Alauddin Khilji, is the southern gateway of the Qutb complex in Delhi. It is renowned for being the first building in India to extensively use true Islamic architectural principles, including horseshoe arches and intricate red sandstone and white marble inlay work.
5) Jami Masjid , Champaner
Built around 1513 CE during the reign of Sultan Mahmud Begada, is located in Gujarat. It is renowned for its blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural elements, featuring a grand central dome, intricately carved mihrabs, and towering minarets making it one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in India.
6) Jahaz Mahal, Mandavgarh
The Jahaz Mahal in Mandu, Madhya Pradesh, was built during the late 15th century by Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji of the Malwa dynasty. Positioned between two artificial lakes Munj Talao and Kapur Talao, it gives the illusion of a floating ship, hence the name Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace). This architectural marvel served as a pleasure palace and housed the royal harem, reflecting Afghan-style architecture with its elegant domes, arches, and balconies.
7) Vimala Temple, Mount Abu
The Vimala Vasahi Temple, located on Mount Abu in Rajasthan, was built in 1031 CE by Vimal Shah, a minister of the Solanki dynasty. Dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath, the temple is known for its intricately carved marble ceilings and domes that reflect the grandeur of Jain architecture in the early medieval period.
8) Firoz Shah Tughalq Tomb, Hauz Khas
The Tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, built around 1388 AD, is located within the Hauz Khas complex in Delhi. It showcases Indo-Islamic architecture with a modest, square domed structure made of rubble masonry, reflecting the Tughlaq dynasty’s austere architectural style.
9) Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur
Gol Gumbaz, located in Bijapur (Vijayapura), Karnataka, was completed in 1656 as the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah of the Adil Shahi dynasty. It is famed for having the second-largest dome in the world (unsupported by pillars), measuring over 44 meters in diameter, and features the remarkable ‘whispering gallery’ where even the softest sounds echo multiple times.
India’s architectural journey with domes reflects its diverse cultural and religious history. Their evolution in form, material, and symbolism showcases how Indian architecture absorbed, adapted, and redefined ideas over centuries, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Minerva is a visual artist and currently serves as a sub editor at Abir Pothi.
