FST – 802

INDIAN CULTURAL
STUDIES
EXTERNAL CULTURAL INFLUENCES ON INDIAN
CULTURE
(MUGHAL AND BRITISH)
Cultural influences on Indian culture by Mughals
The Mughal Empire, which
spanned much of the Indian
subcontinent from the early
16th to the mid-19th century,
had a significant impact on
Indian culture. Here are some
of the key external cultural
influences introduced by the
Mughals:
Architecture
Perhaps the most visible influence of the
Mughals on Indian culture is in architecture.
The Mughals introduced a distinctive style
characterized by grandeur, symmetry, and
intricate ornamentation. Iconic examples
include the Taj Mahal in Agra, built by
Emperor Shah Jahan, and the Red Fort in
Delhi. These structures combined Persian,
Islamic, and Indian architectural elements to
create a unique Mughal aesthetic.
 Architecture during Mughals

• The advent of the Mughals brought a new era in architecture.

• Indo-Islamic architecture reached its zenith during this period
• The first building of this rule was Humayun’s Tomb at Delhi. Red sandstone was used in this building. It has a main
gateway and the tomb is placed in the midst of a garden. Many consider it a precursor of the Taj Mahal
• Akbar built forts at Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The Buland Darwaza reflects the grandeur of the mighty Mughal
Empire. This building was made following Akbar’s victory over Gujarat
• The tomb of Salim Chishti, Palace of Jodha Bai, Ibadat Khana, Birbal’s House and other buildings at Fatehpur
Sikri reflect a synthesis of Persian and Indian elements.
• During the reign of Jehangir, Akbar’s Mausoleum was constructed at Sikandra near Agra. He built the beautiful tomb
of Itimad-ud-daula which was built entirely of marble.
• Shahjahan was the greatest builder amongst the Mughals. He used marble extensively. Decorative design in inlay
work, (called Pietra duro) beautiful arches and minarets were the features of his buildings
• The Red Fort and Jama Masjid of Delhi and above all the Taj Mahal are some of the buildings built by Shahjahan.
Taj Mahal Humayun's Tomb
Art and
Calligraphy
The Mughals were great patrons of the
arts, and their rule saw the flourishing
of miniature painting, which blended
Persian and Indian styles. Mughal
paintings often depicted scenes from
court life, hunting expeditions, and
religious themes. Additionally, Mughal
rulers were known for their patronage
of calligraphy, with Persian script
becoming prominent in official
documents and royal decrees.
1.Cuisine: The Mughals introduced new culinary techniques and ingredients to Indian cuisine.
The use of rich spices, such as saffron, cardamom, and cloves, became more widespread, and
dishes like biryani, kebabs, and korma have their roots in Mughal gastronomy. The Mughals also
popularized the use of tandoor ovens for baking bread and roasting meat.
2.Language and Literature: Persian became the language of the Mughal court, and it exerted a
significant influence on Indian languages, particularly Urdu. Urdu developed as a fusion of
Persian, Arabic, and local dialects, and it remains an important language in India today,
particularly in poetry, literature, and film.
Clothing and Fashion
Mughal clothing refers to clothing adhered by the Mughals in
the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries throughout the extent of
their empire . Much of them were already being used in the
past centuries before their arrival in Indian subcontinent . It
was characterized by luxurious styles and was made with
muslin, silk, velvet and brocade.
Mughal clothing styles, characterized by flowing garments,
intricate embroidery, and rich fabrics like silk and brocade,
influenced Indian fashion trends. The Mughal emperor Akbar is
credited with popularizing the use of the Jama (a long tunic)
and the churidar (fitted trousers) among Indian nobility.
1.Fabrics and Textiles: Mughal emperors and the elite class were
patrons of the arts, including textiles. They favored luxurious
fabrics like silk, brocade, and muslin, often adorned with intricate
embroidery, zardozi work, and gold or silver threads. These
textiles became synonymous with Mughal opulence and were
widely adopted by the nobility.
2.Styles and Silhouettes: Mughal attire featured distinctive styles
and silhouettes that continue to influence Indian fashion today. For
men, the Mughals popularized the use of the angarkha (a long
tunic with an overlapping panel) and the churidar (fitted trousers
with gathers at the ankles). Women's clothing included the
Anarkali (long, flowing dress with a fitted bodice and flared skirt)
and the dupatta (long scarf or shawl).
3.Jewelry and Accessories: Mughal jewelry was renowned for its
intricacy and craftsmanship. Pieces often featured precious stones
like diamonds, emeralds, and rubies set in gold or silver.
Traditional Mughal jewelry such as jhumkas (chandelier earrings),
maang tikka (forehead ornament), and hathphool (hand harness)
remain popular in Indian fashion.
Chikankari Embroidery
Chikankari embroidery is indeed believed to have
originated during the Mughal era in India. This exquisite
and delicate form of hand embroidery is characterized by
its intricate and finely detailed patterns worked with white
thread on lightweight, sheer fabrics like muslin or chiffon.
Legend has it that Chikankari embroidery was introduced
to India by the Mughal emperor Jahangir's wife, Empress
Nur Jahan, who was known for her patronage of the arts.
However, its exact origins and development are not
definitively documented.
During the Mughal period, Chikankari became popular
among the nobility and aristocracy, who adorned themselves
with intricately embroidered garments featuring floral
motifs, paisleys, vines, and geometric patterns. The
embroidery was highly prized for its elegance,
craftsmanship, and association with luxury.
Over time, Chikankari spread beyond the royal court and
became more widely practiced, particularly in regions like
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, which is now considered a hub for
this craft. Artisans perfected the technique, incorporating
new stitches and designs, and Chikankari evolved into a
celebrated art form that continues to be cherished today.
Zardozi Embroidery
Zardozi embroidery, like Chikankari, is another exquisite
form of embellishment that flourished during the Mughal
era in India. Zardozi, which translates to "gold
embroidery" in Persian, involves the use of metallic
threads, along with precious and semi-precious stones,
beads, and pearls, to create elaborate designs on fabric.
Although the exact origins of Zardozi are not fully
documented, it is widely believed to have been
introduced and popularized in India during the Mughal
period. Mughal emperors, including Akbar, Jahangir, and
Shah Jahan, were known for their patronage of the arts
and their fondness for luxurious textiles and
embellishments.
Zardozi embroidery was particularly favored for its opulence and
grandeur, making it a symbol of royalty and nobility. The technique
involved skilled artisans meticulously hand-stitching metallic threads
onto rich fabrics like velvet, silk, and brocade, often incorporating
motifs inspired by Mughal architecture, flora, fauna, and geometric
patterns.
During the Mughal era, Zardozi adorned a wide range of garments
worn by the nobility, including royal robes, ceremonial attire, and
regal accessories. The embroidery was also used to embellish textiles
for home decor, such as curtains, wall hangings, and cushions.
While Zardozi embroidery reached its zenith during the Mughal
period, it continued to thrive in subsequent centuries, evolving with
changing tastes and fashion trends. Today, Zardozi remains a cherished
art form in India, celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship and timeless
elegance. It is commonly seen on bridal wear, formal attire, and luxury
accessories, carrying on the legacy of Mughal influence on Indian
textiles and embellishments.
1.Music and Dance: Mughal rulers were patrons of music and dance, and their courts were centers of
artistic innovation. Classical Indian music, particularly the Hindustani tradition, saw the incorporation of
Persian influences in terms of musical instruments, melodies, and lyrical themes. Mughal influence also
enriched classical Indian dance forms like Kathak.
2.Religious Syncretism: While the Mughals were Muslim rulers, they presided over a predominantly
Hindu population. Their rule fostered a cultural synthesis, leading to the emergence of syncretic art,
music, and architecture that combined elements of both Hindu and Islamic traditions. This period
witnessed the construction of monuments like the Akbari Mosque in Agra, which reflects a blend of
Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
Overall, the Mughal period was a time of significant cultural exchange and synthesis, with the fusion of
Persian, Islamic, and Indian influences leaving a lasting impact on various aspects of Indian culture.
Culture influence by British on India
The British colonial rule had a
profound and lasting impact on
Indian culture, society, economy,
and politics.
Overall, British colonial
architecture in India reflects a
blend of European architectural
styles with local influences,
leaving behind a rich architectural
legacy that continues to shape the
built environment of the
subcontinent.
1.Language: English became widely used in India during the colonial period and remains
one of the official languages. It has influenced Indian languages, especially in terms of
vocabulary and syntax.
2.Education: The British introduced a modern education system in India, which
significantly influenced the Indian educational landscape. English-medium education
became prestigious and opened up opportunities for Indians to access higher education
and government positions.
3.Legal System: The British introduced a modern legal system based on English common
law in India, which replaced traditional legal systems. This had a lasting impact on the
Indian legal framework.
4.Political Institutions: The British established a centralized administrative system in
India, introducing concepts like the rule of law, bureaucracy, and parliamentary
democracy. These institutions laid the foundation for India's political structure after
independence.
1.Infrastructure: The British invested in infrastructure projects such as railways, roads,
and telegraph systems, which facilitated communication and transportation across the
subcontinent.
2.Economic Exploitation: The British colonial economy was based on the extraction of
resources from India for the benefit of Britain. This exploitation led to the
deindustrialization of India and the transformation of its economy into a supplier of raw
materials for British industries.
3.Cultural Exchange: The British introduced Western ideas, values, and cultural practices
to India, leading to a blend of Indian and Western cultures in areas such as literature,
art, music, and fashion.
4.Social Reform Movements: The British presence in India also sparked social reform
movements aimed at addressing issues such as caste discrimination, women's rights,
and education reform.
The British influence on Indian fashion during the colonial
period was significant and multifaceted.
Clothing Styles:
British fashion introduced new
clothing styles to India,
particularly among the urban
elite and upper classes.
Western-style garments such as
suits, dresses, and tailored
coats became fashionable
among the Indian elite,
especially in major cities like
Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras.
Textiles: The British textile industry played a crucial role in shaping Indian
fashion. British textiles, including fine cotton, wool, and silk fabrics, were
imported to India and became popular choices for garments among both the
elite and the middle class.
Impact on Textile Industry: The British colonial administration promoted the
production of textiles for export, which led to the decline of indigenous Indian
textile industries. This shift towards British-manufactured textiles further
entrenched British influence on Indian fashion.
Military and Uniform Influence:
British military uniforms and civilian
attire also influenced Indian fashion
trends. Elements such as epaulets,
brass buttons, tailored jackets, and
structured coats found their way into
Indian wardrobes, especially among
men in positions of authority or those
associated with the military.
1.Accessories: British influence extended to accessories such as hats, gloves, umbrellas,
and handbags, which became fashionable among urban Indians, particularly women,
who adopted these items as symbols of modernity and sophistication.
2.Social Etiquette and Dress Codes: British colonial society introduced new social
norms and dress codes, which influenced Indian elites and urban middle classes.
Dressing according to British etiquette became a marker of social status and
sophistication.
3.Fashion Magazines and Media: British fashion magazines and media also played a
role in disseminating Western fashion trends in India. Publications such as Vogue and
Harper's Bazaar showcased the latest European and American styles, influencing
Indian fashion tastes and preferences.
Westernization of Traditional Attire:
The influence of British fashion led to the
Westernization of traditional Indian attire. For
example, Indian men began wearing
Western-style suits and ties for formal
occasions, while women incorporated
Western-style blouses and skirts into their
traditional attire.
Architecture
1.Government Buildings: The British constructed numerous administrative buildings across
India, characterized by their grandeur and neoclassical or Victorian architectural styles.
Examples include the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, the Secretariat Building in New Delhi, and
the Bombay High Court.
2.Railway Stations: The British built extensive railway networks in India, and many of the
railway stations were constructed in architectural styles reminiscent of Victorian or Gothic
architecture. Iconic examples include Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai and Howrah
Station in Kolkata.
3.Residential Architecture: British officials and settlers built bungalows and colonial-style
residences across India, especially in hill stations and urban centers. These structures often
featured large verandas, sloping roofs, and expansive gardens. Examples include the Raj
Bhavans (Governor's Residences) in various states and the British-era bungalows in cities like
Shimla and Ooty.
1.Educational Institutions: British colonial authorities established educational
institutions across India, many of which were built in architectural styles reminiscent of
British universities. Examples include the University of Mumbai's Gothic-style Rajabai
Clock Tower and the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, which features colonial-era
buildings.
2.Churches and Cathedrals: The British built numerous churches and cathedrals across
India, often in Gothic Revival or Neo-Gothic styles. St. Paul's Cathedral in Kolkata, the
Cathedral of the Holy Name in Mumbai, and Christ Church in Shimla are notable
examples.
3.Public Buildings and Monuments: The British constructed public buildings,
monuments, and memorials across India to commemorate significant events or
individuals. Examples include India Gate in New Delhi, built in memory of Indian soldiers
who died in World War I, and the Gateway of India in Mumbai, built to commemorate
the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.
1.Infrastructure: British colonial rule also led to the construction of bridges, dams,
canals, and other infrastructure projects across India, many of which feature
architectural elements influenced by British engineering practices.
2.Urban Planning: The British introduced new urban planning concepts in Indian
cities, including the development of civil lines, cantonments, and planned
residential areas. Cities like New Delhi, designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens,
reflect these planning principles.
The British had a profound impact on transportation in India during their colonial
rule, shaping the country's infrastructure and influencing its development in
significant ways. Here are some key aspects of their impact:

1.Railways: The British introduced the railway system to India in the mid-19th century primarily for their
own economic and administrative interests. The first train in India ran from Mumbai to Thane in 1853.
Railways revolutionized transportation, making it faster, safer, and more efficient for both passengers and
goods. This network facilitated the movement of raw materials from the hinterland to ports for export and
helped in the integration of various regions of India into a unified economic entity.
2.Roads and Highways: The British also improved road infrastructure in India, though to a lesser extent
compared to railways. They constructed roads connecting major cities and strategic locations, facilitating
the movement of troops and goods. However, these roads were often built for administrative and military
purposes rather than for the general welfare of the Indian population.
3.Ports and Shipping: The British developed several ports in India, such as Bombay (Mumbai), Calcutta
(Kolkata), and Madras (Chennai), to facilitate trade with other parts of the British Empire and the world.
These ports were modernized and equipped with advanced shipping facilities, contributing to the growth of
maritime trade and commerce.
1.Inland Waterways: The British also utilized India's extensive network of rivers for transportation. They
improved navigation along major rivers like the Ganges and Brahmaputra, constructing canals and barrages to
facilitate the movement of goods and people. However, compared to railways and roads, the development of
inland waterways was relatively limited.
2.Telegraph and Communication: The British introduced telegraph lines in India, improving communication and
coordination across vast distances. This infrastructure was crucial for administrative control, trade, and military
purposes.
3.Legacy and Modernization: Many of the transportation systems and infrastructure projects initiated by the
British continued to serve as the backbone of India's transportation network even after independence.
However, post-independence governments have made efforts to modernize and expand these systems to meet
the growing demands of a rapidly developing country.
Overall, while the British colonial rule brought about significant advancements in transportation
infrastructure in India, it's important to recognize that these developments were often motivated by
colonial economic interests and were not always designed to benefit the Indian population as a whole.
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