Which of the following is an example of colonial architectures in India?

I. Gateway of India, Mumbai

II. India Gate. New Delhi

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Both I and II

Explanation:

Both the Gateway of India and India Gate are examples of colonial architecture in India, reflecting British colonial influence during the period of British rule in India.

Gateway of India, Mumbai:

• Constructed in 1911, the Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India.
• It features Islamic, Hindu, and European architectural styles, with Indo-Saracenic architectural elements, which is a prominent style of colonial architecture.
• It symbolizes the grandeur of British colonial power in India.

India Gate, New Delhi:

• Constructed in 1931, India Gate is a war memorial dedicated to soldiers who died during World War I and the Afghan War.
• It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, a British architect, and reflects the imperial architecture style of the colonial era, similar to several monuments built by the British during their rule.
• It stands as a reminder of British colonial rule in India.

Information Booster:

• Indo-Saracenic Architecture: A blend of Indian and Islamic architectural styles with European influences, commonly seen in colonial-era buildings such as the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai. These structures were built during the British Raj.
• Sir Edwin Lutyens: A renowned British architect who played a significant role in designing New Delhi. He is responsible for the creation of India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and other key structures in the capital. His works are a mix of classical and colonial architecture.

Additional Knowledge:

• Victoria Memorial, Kolkata: Another notable example of colonial architecture, built between 1906 and 1921, which combines European classical and Mughal styles. It is one of the most famous British-era buildings in India.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST), Mumbai: An example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, another style adopted by the British in colonial India. It was constructed in 1887 to honor the visit of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.