The Music of Stones

An essay that deftly deconstructs the history of ’Islamic architecture’, challenging colonial narratives and promoting an inclusive understanding of Islam.

In The Music of Stones, Sohail Hashmi delves into the intricate history and misconceptions surrounding Islamic architecture and culture. Challenging colonial and orientalist narratives, Hashmi reveals that iconic elements like domes and minarets were not originally part of early Islamic structures but later additions influenced by various cultures, primarily Persian and Turkish. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking theories, Hashmi deconstructs the monolithic view of Islamic culture, emphasizing its rich and diverse heritage shaped by Sufi, Central Asian, and other regional influences. He highlights the importance of historical context and the dangers of oversimplifying complex cultural identities.

The Music of Stones invites readers to reconsider the architectural and cultural legacy of Islam, advocating for a more inclusive and evidence-based understanding that transcends reductive labels and celebrates the richness of its diverse traditions.

Sohail Hashmi is an oral historian, social activist, filmmaker, and heritage conservationist based in Delhi. He conducts immersive heritage walks in Delhi that explore the city’s rich history, culture, food, and architecture, earning him the Heritage Award from INTACH Delhi in 2022. Hashmi is also one of the founding trustees of SAHMAT (The Safdar Hashmi Memorial Trust) and the author of Sanchi: Where Tigers Fly and Lions Have Horns, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India Series.