Question

Compare the photograph of the elephant stables and the plan of a single chamber in the stables with the elevation drawing of the elephant stables, making a list of features visible in each one. Do you think these were actually elephant stables?

Answer 1

I. The features that are visible in each one are as follows:

1. In the photograph of the elephant stables:
   • A grand, continuous line of large, individual masonry chambers built side by side.
   • Large, prominent pointed Islamic-style arches serving as front entrances for each bay.
   • A series of distinct, rounded decorative domes crowning the rooftop of the structure.
2. In the plan of a single chamber in the stables:
   • A clear, top-down internal architectural layout of a single compartment.
   • Depiction of extremely thick, heavy masonry walls built to handle immense physical pressure.
3. In the elevation drawing of the elephant stables:
   • A flat, two-dimensional geometric front profile illustrating precise structural alignment.
   • A prominent, multi-storeyed central viewing pavilion rising above the flanking side wings.
   • Symmetrical horizontal bands and decorative roof lines cutting across the entire building.

II. Yes, historical records and architectural evidence strongly support this conclusion:

1. Massive Proportions: The soaring height and wide space of each arched entrance were specially designed to accommodate fully grown, armoured war elephants.
2. Military Strategic Location: Positioned very close to the Royal Centre, it allowed the rulers to rapidly deploy the empire's core offensive asset during battles or state processions.
3. Tethering Provisions: The inner chambers contain thick stone loops and rings integrated into the masonry to chain large animals securely.
4. Eyewitness Accounts: Contemporary foreign travellers like Abdur Razzaq and Domingo Paes explicitly described seeing rows of premium royal war elephants housed in these precise structures.