Glimpses of Colonial Architecture in Delhi

The book discusses the architecture of the colonial period in Delhi. Linking architecture to socio-political conditions, it examines the entangled relationship between architecture and colonial society. It delves into how the British-introduced architectural style was influenced by Mughal architectural style and other techniques to persuade the Indian subjects to accept British authority and sovereignty, and so a continuity of the pre-British architectural tradition was maintained. With numerous plans, drawings and figures, it views the purpose of the construction activity of the British which had utilitarian, symbolic and political dimensions and was a demonstration of the British might and a way to strike terror in the minds of the Indian subjects. Showcasing a large number of monuments made by the British in Delhi, it analyses their architectural aspects such as their technique and style, the structure of the buildings, the statues within them, their purpose and their present state.