TRACING THE ETHEREAL: EXPLORING AESTHETIC HERITAGE AND CULTURAL IDENTITY IN HISTORIC GARDENS - A CASE STUDY OF SHALIMAR GARDEN

Ahsan  Khalil; Nijah  Akram; Muti   ul haq; Dr. Ayesha Mehmood Malik; Sheikh Husnain   Asif

doi:10.46662/jass.v11i1.444

Ahsan Khalil Department of Architectural engineering technology, Punjab Tianjin university of technology, Lahore
Nijah Akram Department of Architectural engineering technology, Punjab Tianjin university of technology, Lahore
Muti ul haq Department of architectural engineering technology, Punjab tianjin university of technology
Dr. Ayesha Mehmood Malik Associate professor, School of Architecture, University of Lahore
Sheikh Husnain Asif Department of Architectural engineering technology, Punjab Tianjin university of technology, Lahore

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46662/jass.v11i1.444

Keywords: Mughal Gardens, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, Garden Design, Geometric Design, Aesthetics

Abstract

Mughal gardens are a prominent figure in the history of landscape architecture, serving as a symbol of artistic talent and horticultural genius. The Mughal gardens thrived throughout the Mughal Empire's rule in South Asia, and this dissertation investigates the profound philosophy that underpinned its design planting methods. The study explores the sociocultural factors that influenced Mughal gardening practices within the historical framework of that period. This study makes use of both primary and secondary sources to illuminate the main components of Mughal Garden design, including the widespread use of geometric patterns, water features, and the blending of architecture and landscape. A strong link between the gardens and the Mughal worldview is shown when the research additionally looks at the spiritual and metaphorical meanings connected to the fauna and plants selected for these gardens. Additionally, the study focuses on the cultivation practices used by Mughal horticulturists, showcasing their creative approaches to attaining a harmonic fusion of form and function. Mughal gardens are renowned for their overall visual effect, mostly due to the careful selection and placement of their flora. This dissertation tries to uncover the underlying plantation philosophy of Mughal gardens through a thorough investigation of historical records and garden ruins, highlighting the complex interactions between art, culture, and environment throughout this era. Modern landscape designers and hobbyists may take inspiration from the Mughal approach to horticulture and apply its timeless wisdom to contemporary gardening techniques by comprehending the fundamental ideas that guided the building of these gardens.