DOGRA
ARCHITECTURE - ART & CULTURE
What's
in the news?
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The Maharaj Gunj market in Srinagar, Jammu
and Kashmir, which had lost its historical glory due to encroachments and
deviations, is undergoing a revival project.
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Srinagar Smart City Ltd. and the Kashmir
chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) are
collaborating to conserve vernacular elements of Kashmiri architecture,
particularly those introduced by Dogra Hindu kings between 1846 and 1947.
Dogra
Architecture:
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Dogra architecture is a term used to
describe the buildings and structures constructed by the Dogra Hindu kings who
ruled over Jammu.
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The Dogra kings ruled from 1846 to 1947.
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The Dogras are believed to be of
Indo-Aryan descent and migrated to the Jammu region from the Punjab region
during ancient times.
Characteristics:
Dogra architecture in
Jammu and Kashmir is characterized by:
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Use
of local materials: Utilizes stone, wood and bricks from the
region.
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Symmetrical
designs: Often feature symmetrical layouts and ornate
detailing.
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Wooden
balconies: Prominent use of intricately carved wooden balconies.
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Sloping
roofs: Sloped roofs to withstand snowfall, with overhanging
eaves.
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Courtyards:
Central
courtyards for light and ventilation in homes.
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Influence
of Hindu and Tibetan styles: Combines elements of
both architectural traditions.
Examples:
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The Mubarak mandi, which was a hub of
Dogra culture until 1947
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The Jharokha style of balcony.
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The Amar Mahal Palace.