Grand Architecture of Medieval Rajasthan Innovation and Imitation (Set of 2 Volumes)

In the present monograph, I have attempted to clarify the basic concept involved in the study of the architecture of medieval Rajasthan and to describe its evolution through the course of centuries.

The text has been considered to offer the reader interested in Rajput architecture with brief, exceptional data about its stylistic evolution and kinds of development. I likewise hope that by the introduction of new material, the monograph will expand our picture of Rajput architecture and that by fresh analysis it will animate further research and discussion. The developmental periods of Rajput architecture are dealt more fully than the later periods, where even the most fundamental exploration is as yet needing. Preference is given to the tracing of stylistic developments over an unbending arrangement of building types. Notes are kept comprehensive; refer to either contemporary sources or accessible secondary writing. A bibliography for additional perusing is provided at the end of the monograph.

Diacritical marks have been kept to the transliteration of technical terms in the glossary and the reference of contemporary sources in the bibliography. Place names are rendered in their current form. Names of monuments are those of local tradition supported by the historical evidence. The use of Persian, Arabic and Sanskrit derived architectural terms follows the practice of the standard architectural books; these terms are explained in the glossary. All photography not explicitly credited to others were taken by myself. All drawings, plans and sketches unless otherwise indicated, were prepared by myself.

Working on the architecture of medieval Rajasthan was recommended to me by Professor Syed Ali Nadeem Rezavi, as supervisor to pursue the doctoral research in the Centre of Advanced Study, Department of History, Aligarh Muslim University. To Professor Rezavi thanks are expected significantly more than any other. He introduced me to the field, furnish me with research material and helping me to plan my further research. During these times he has been my most prominent help and best evaluates, while never forcing his thoughts. He has pushed me to think critically and write better. A research study of this type would not have been conceivable without his enthusiastic cooperation and capable direction. I am also extremely grateful to him for permitting me to use one of his papers on hydraulic engineering in Jaigarh fort along with its drawing and plans.

I am also indebted to Professor Emeritus Irfan Habib and Professor Shireen Moosvi, for their interest and concern they have consistently exhibited in my research interests.

I owe a special debt to Professor Som Prakash Verma for generously sharing his knowledge, ideas and time. For many years he has been a steady source of intellectual encouragement, kind support, and useful advice.

With gratitude, I also acknowledge the assistance I have had from the Archaeological Survey of India in particular from Syed Jamal Hasan, Superintendent Archaeologist, Jaipur Circle, ASI. I would always remain obliged to him for the permission he granted me to visit and photograph all the ASI protected monuments in the Jaipur Circle. He hasn't only arranged much of my interaction with ASI (Jaipur Circle) staff, but also making me available copies of all (Centrally Protected Monuments) plans which were not available to me at Aligarh. He facilitated all the arrangements of my stay in Rajasthan and made my visits comfortable.

**Contents and Sample Pages**