NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture — Chapter 8: Some Aspects of Indo-Islamic Architecture

mcqeasy

The Qibla Liwan of a mosque is best identified by its association with which functional aspect of worship?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AThe open courtyard for congregation
BThe tower from which the call to prayer is given
CThe wall indicating the direction of Mecca
DThe main entrance gateway

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is The wall indicating the direction of Mecca.

Explanation

In Indo-Islamic architecture, the design of a mosque (Masjid) follows a specific spatial layout to facilitate congregational prayer (Namaz). The terminology for these architectural components is derived from Arabic and Persian traditions, which became standardized during the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal periods.

Option Analysis:

The wall indicating the direction of Mecca: The wall indicating the direction of Mecca (Correct Association)
Technically, the Qibla is the direction of Mecca, and the wall facing it is the Qibla Wall. The term Qibla Liwan refers to the main prayer hall or sanctuary that is situated immediately against this wall. Since the Qibla Liwan is the architectural volume defined by the Qibla wall (containing the Mihrab), this option is the correct answer in the context of the provided choices, distinguishing it from the courtyard, gateway, or tower.
The main entrance gateway: The main entrance gateway (Incorrect)
The monumental main gateway of a mosque is known as the Darwaza. The high portal frame often found at the entrance is called a Pishtaq.
The tower from which the call to prayer is given: The tower from which the call to prayer is given (Incorrect)
This structure is called the Minar (Minaret). It is a tall tower attached to the mosque from where the Muezzin calls the faithful to prayer (Adhan).
The open courtyard for congregation: The open courtyard for congregation (Incorrect)
The open courtyard in the center of the mosque is called the Sahn. It is usually surrounded by pillared cloisters (Liwans) and often contains a water tank for ablution (Wuzu).

Key Takeaway:
The Qibla Liwan is the pillared prayer hall or sanctuary located on the side of the mosque facing Mecca (West in India). It houses the Mihrab (prayer niche) and the Minbar (pulpit).

Your note

More from Chapter 8: Some Aspects of Indo-Islamic Architecture

Consider the following statements regarding the Gol Gumbad of Bijapur: 1. It was built by Muhammad Adil Shah as a mausoleum for himself. 2. The dome rests on a system of lintels and beams. 3. It lacks any acoustic features. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

hard

With reference to the Qutub Minar, consider the following statements: 1. It was built in the thirteenth century. 2. It stands at a height of over 500 feet. 3. It is a tapering tower divided into four storeys. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

easy

Which of the following architectural features is not found in the Gol Gumbad at Bijapur?

medium

Consider the following statements regarding the decorative forms used in Indo-Islamic architecture: 1. The lotus bud fringe was used to decorate the underside of the arches. 2. The use of foliated arches was discontinued after the fifteenth century. 3. Pietra dura techniques were applied for surface decoration, particularly in the dado panels of walls. Which of the statements given above are correct?

medium

With reference to the provincial styles of Indo-Islamic architecture, consider the following statements regarding the architecture of Gujarat: 1. It completely rejected regional temple traditions. 2. It is known for its exquisite stone carving and jali work. 3. The dargah of Shaikh Ahmad Khattu of Sarkhej is a prominent example of this style. Which of the statements given above are correct?

medium

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The correct option is The wall indicating the direction of Mecca.

Explanation

Option Analysis:

The wall indicating the direction of Mecca: The wall indicating the direction of Mecca (Correct Association)
Technically, the Qibla is the direction of Mecca, and the wall facing it is the Qibla Wall. The term Qibla Liwan refers to the main prayer hall or sanctuary that is situated immediately against this wall. Since the Qibla Liwan is the architectural volume defined by the Qibla wall (containing the Mihrab), this option is the correct answer in the context of the provided choices, distinguishing it from the courtyard, gateway, or tower.
The main entrance gateway: The main entrance gateway (Incorrect)
The monumental main gateway of a mosque is known as the Darwaza. The high portal frame often found at the entrance is called a Pishtaq.
The tower from which the call to prayer is given: The tower from which the call to prayer is given (Incorrect)
This structure is called the Minar (Minaret). It is a tall tower attached to the mosque from where the Muezzin calls the faithful to prayer (Adhan).
The open courtyard for congregation: The open courtyard for congregation (Incorrect)
The open courtyard in the center of the mosque is called the Sahn. It is usually surrounded by pillared cloisters (Liwans) and often contains a water tank for ablution (Wuzu).