We started this project by visiting four mosques (Sarkhej Roza, Sidi Saiyyed Jali, Jama Masjid and Rani Sipri ni Masjid) in Ahmedabad to study and photo document the jaalis in detail. We learnt how jaalis were originally created as an architectural method to overcome excessive heat in arid climates and control light.

As we dug deep into the topic, we found out the philosophical meanings (symbolism of light and forms especially) behind creating the jaalis. Here's sharing the concept behind our installation:

“Light was, as stated in the Quran,
One of the first manifestations of God.”
- Haider, 2011. Thus, Light reflects the divinity of Heaven (Sadr-‘ameli, 2015), so natural light is an indispensable design
factor of Islamic architecture.

Also, In jaalis, abstract geometrical forms were especially preferred because they facilitate divine reflection. Not least is the important symbolism of light in the art and architecture of India and the Islamic world, and the Mughals in particular. Together, the effect of light, pattern, colour and breeze in the art of the jali form a powerful aesthetic of Mughal India.

The installation was the result of meanings we found out from our research. There were many light sources in front of the jaali, which resulted into creating many beautiful shadows interacting with each other behind the jaali! PS. To all the urdu knowing people, we know there was a mistake in arrangement of the urdu words and we apologise:)