Sponsor Area

Colonial Cities

Question
CBSEENHS12027854

The architectural style of many new buildings was European. Why?

Or

Give an example of how the British adapted some Indian styles to suit their needs.

Solution

(a) This was done because the British wanted to create a familiar landscape and thus be at home. Moreover they felt that European styles would best symbolize their authority and power.

(b) Thirdly it was felt that European buildings would mark out the difference between the ruler and the ruled. The example is the bungalow which was used by government officers in Bombay and other parts of India.

(c) It name was derived from Bangla a traditional thatched Bengali hut. The bungalow was set in the middle of extensive grounds which ensured privacy.

(d) The traditional pitched roof and surrounding verandah kept the bungalow cool in the summer months. Separate quarters for servants were to be found in the compound.

(e) The bungalows were generally to be found in the Civil Lines. These became a racially exclusive enclave in which the ruling classes could live self-sufficient without coming into daily contact with the Indians.


Some More Questions From Colonial Cities Chapter

What are the different colonial architectural styles which can be seen in Bombay city?

How were urban centres transformed during the eighteenth century?

What were the new kinds of public places that emerged in the colonial city? What functions did they serve?

What were the concerns that influenced town planning in the nineteenth century?

To what extent were social relations transformed in the new cities?

On an outline map of India, trace the major rivers and hill ranges. Plot ten cities mentioned in the chapter, including Bombay. Calcutta and Madras, and prepare a brief note on why the importance of any two cities that you have marked (one colonial and one precolonial) changed in the nineteenth century.

You have been reading about big colonial cities. Choose any small town with a long history. It could be a temple town, market town, administrative centre, a pilgrimage centre or a combination of these. Find out how the town was established, when it developed, and how its history changed during modern times.

Choose five different types of buildings in your town or village. For each of these, find out when it was built, how it was planned, how resources were obtained for its construction, and how long it took to built it. What do the architectural features of the buildings express?

Choose five different types of buildings in your town or village. For each of these, find out when it was built, how it was planned, how resources were obtained for its construction, and how long it took to built it. What do the architectural features of the buildings express ?

Why was the colonial government keen on mapping? Mention any two reasons.