Answer:
Architecture in colonial Bombay:
(i) As Bombay?s economy grew in mid-19th century the British developed new administrative structures. Many new buildings were constructed in European style to reflect the culture and confidence of the rulers. To symbolise their power, their superiority, which would also mark a difference between colonial masters and their Indian subjects.
(ii) For public buildings British adopted three architectural styles. The 1st was Neo-classical which were geometrical structures fronted with lofty pillars.
(iii) Its original style was that of ancient Rome, the British considered it ideal to express their glory of imperial India. eg: The Town Hall in Bombay built in 1833 , Elphinstone Circle later named Horniman Circle which was inspired from models in Italy . It made innovative use of covered arcades to shield shoppers and pedestrians from sun and rain of Bombay.
(iv) Another style was Neo Gothic characterized by high pitched roofs pointed arches and detail decoration.
(v) The Gothic style had its roots in buildings, especially churches built in North Europe during medieval period.
(vi) The Neo Gothic style was revived in mid -19th century in England and the Victoria Terminus is the most spectacular example of this style.
(vii) Towards the 20th century a new hybrid architectural style developed called Indo-Saracenic. Europeans used Saracen term to designate Muslim and Indo was Shorthand for Hindu. The inspiration came from medieval buildings in India - domes, chhatris, jalis and arches. Example of Indo-Saracenic is Gateway of India and Taj Mahal Hotel.
(viii) By integrating India and European styles the British wanted to prove that they were legitimate rulers of India.
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