Three Mohammedan Gumbaz of Hukkeri

Historical Background

Hukkeri, derived from “Huvinakeri” (street of flowers), was famous for its rose exports to Bijapur during the Adil Shahi kingdom. The town came under Yusuf Adil Shah’s rule in 1502, after being controlled by Fate Bahadur.

The Three Gumbaz

West Gumbaz

• Dimensions: 35′ x 35′ base, approximately 50′ height
• Features:
  • Two entrances
  • Arched niches on all faces
  • Tiled platform and interior
  • Floral murals in niches
  • White-red dome

Middle Gumbaz (Largest)

• Dimensions: 42′ x 42′ base, approximately 55′ height
• Features:
  • Nine niches on each face
  • Four entrances
  • Unique corner niches
  • Golden dome
  • Octagonal ceiling transition

Eastern Gumbaz (Smallest)

• Features:
  • One large central niche
  • Smaller flanking niches
  • Compact design

Historical Timeline

• Ain-ul-mulk Gilani’s Rule (40 years):
  • Built fort and two tombs
  • First large tomb constructed in 1509
• Fateh-Mulk’s Rule (1547-1568):
  • Built third tomb in 1555
• Rustam Zaman’s Period (1680):
  • Built Chini Gumat and Kadam Rasul mosque

Architectural Significance

These Gumbaz show architectural similarities to those found in Bijapur, Gulbarga, and Bidar, representing the Islamic architectural style of the Deccan region. The structures feature sophisticated architectural elements like transitional octagonal ceilings, ornate niches, and distinctive domes.