Explain how the buildings constructed by Akbar at Fatehpur Sikri show that he achieved a fusion of native traditions with those of Iran in the sphere of art.

The reign of Akbar achieved a fusion of native traditions with those of Iran in the sphere of art. The two-fold influence is revealed in the buildings at Fatehpur Sikri. Akbar built this city in 1569, which is about 23 miles from
Agra. It was his capital for about 15 years. It is a concrete expression of his towering personality, ambition and versatile mind. He consolidated the Mughal empire and gave all possible encouragement to the many-sided Mughal culture. Fatehpur Sikri is a document in stone that bears testimony to the catholic mind and exquisite taste of the great king.
The main buildings at Sikri are the Naubat Khana (house of minstrel), Darbar-i-Am with an open court in the form of a giant pachchisi board, the Turkish Sultanas house with its finely carved walls, the Diwan-i-Khas, a building of unique design with a central pillar, supporting on its elaborately bracketed circular seat, joined by radiating bridges to the galleries on four sides. It is believed that the emperor occupied the central seat with his counsellors on the four sides. The Panch Mahal, a five-storeyed structure of open pavilions is of traditional inspiration and reflects the gay and aspiring mind of the monarch. The Great Mosque, built in 1571, is a magnificent structure. So is the Buland Darwaza, a 170-feet-high structure, which commemorates Akbar’s triumphant return from his Deccan campaign.

Topics: GS-I: Indian Architecture