Evolution of the Islamic Religious Architecture of Kashmir in the Medieval Period

Abstract

The Mughals resurrected stone architecture and erected stunning, majestic buildings across the Valley. As a result of combining local design elements with imperial influences, the architecture in this area is really unique. In addition, the Valley's geography allowed the emperors to create gardens in the style of Central Asia. The Kashmir valley has been praised as "heaven on earth," so naturally it has attracted the attention of religious leaders, explorers, and tourists throughout history. The rise of the Mughal Empire in northern India brought a magnificent resurgence of Islamic architecture after a period of pillage. In the Mughal Empire, a synthesis of Indian, Persian, and other styles resulted in a level of quality and improvement that had never been seen before. Kashmiri culture and custom were significantly shaped during the Mughal era. The era was crucial in developing Kashmiri's rich artwork and putting this valley on the map as one of the most culturally significant places in the world. A spectacular scenario occurred in 1326 A.D. when the monarch of a period, Rinchana (1320–1323) of Kashmir, adopted Islam at the hands of the Sufi saint Sayyid Sharaf-ud-Din Abdul Rahman. The state and its surrounding areas have a long history of Muslim settlement, though, as well as the king's discontent regarding other religions.