2025 - Echoes of the Past: Sound, Space, and Acoustics in Mughal Architecture, by Munazzah Akhtar
The Jamiʿ Masjid of Thatta (1647) and Lahore’s Badshahi Masjid (1671) showcase remarkable Mughal architecture, not only in aesthetics but also in acoustics. Thatta’s mosque, with 93 domes, enables prayers to be heard without mechanical amplification, while Badshahi Masjid’s central hall exhibits an unusual sound transmission pattern. Even the Mughal-era hammam in Lahore demonstrates intriguing acoustic properties, raising questions about intentional design choices. This research will analyse Mughal architectural acoustics through case studies, examining spatial configurations, materials, and decorative elements.
This study will mainly look at how the original plan shapes, interior spaces, materials, architectural elements, decorative features, and micro-environments of the chosen sites affect sound. Several types of methods will be used in this study, such as psychoacoustic analysis, acoustic simulations, and field measurements of reverberation time and speech transmission index (STI). The measurements taken on-site, photogrammetry, and detailed laser scanning will help make accurate 3D models of the case studies. Funding from The Barakat Trust will cover access to specialised software.
Munazzah is Associate Professor at Department of Architecture, UET Lahore. She received her PhD in Art History & Visual Studies from the University of Victoria.


















