A jaali is a perforated stone or latticed screen, usually with an ornamental pattern built using calligraphy, geometry, or natural patterns. This type of architectural element is prevalent in Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture in general.
It is a delicate and intricate architectural representation of a spider's web. Jaali designs filter out harsh sunlight while allowing adequate natural light into a space. They also keep a space ventilated. The jaali allows light and air in while keeping the sun and rain out. It has been observed that humid areas such as Kerala, have larger perforations with lower overall opacity than dry climate regions such as Gujarat and Rajasthan.
O R I G I N & E V O L U T I O N O F J A A L I
Essentially, jaali is a classic design with its roots in Islamic architecture that places a strong emphasis on letting natural light in. Light has a very special place in Islamic ideology because it is thought to be one of the first things created by God. The jaali is an architectural manifestation of both of these requirements: it filters in light and air while managing to keep glare and heat out.
The style of using jaalis came to India for an indefinite period but was popularised by the Mughals in their architecture. Over the years, it became the screen through which high-born or royal women, who were expected to remain in purdah, looked at the world outside. We can still see some examples of this in the form of jharokhas in the palaces of Rajasthan.
With the prevalent use of glass in the late nineteenth century and the sleekness of modern Indian residential areas, jaalis became less common for privacy and security reasons. But nowadays, we are seeing extensive use of these traditional jaalis majorly for aesthetical purposes and visual divisions. These jaalis are now mainly installed in facades, to overcome extensive heat. As people are moving towards an open plan layout concept, these jaalis are commonly used as a partition screen between spaces to divide the functionalities of the room.
J A A L I M A T E R I A L S
Stone has been the primary building material for jaalis since its origins. The design was eventually replicated in solid wood too. Jaali designs are at present available in acrylic, MDF, metal, PVC sheets, and POP. You can duco paint them in different colors or choose from a variety of laminate shades. The introduction of laser-cutting machines and 3D printers helped facilitate jaali fabrication, designed to allow for extreme customization. These jaalis are widely used as a facade element in the form of brick, and terracotta.
B E N E F I T S & U S E S O F J A A L I
In palaces, the jaali pattern was commonly used for doors, windows, and watchtowers. It has survived and evolved over generations due to its excellent balance of form and function. Jaalis are available in varied sizes, patterns, and materials to be used as per different regions and applications. Here are some benefits and uses of a modern jaali in residences.
... creates interesting shadow patterns
The perforations cast dappled shadows and light on the interior walls and floors, which dance and move in response to changing sun angles and create a very interesting space. This way, we can transform a dull or boring space into a dynamic and active one. We can use these as windows or partition walls to create patterns through shadows that continually change in time.
... are extremely picturesque
The jaalis are a lovely addition to any home. They add a sense of ornamentation and elegance. Lattice patterns are abundant and can be used to complement both traditional and contemporary decor. It is a statement in itself and cost-effective too. There is no specific decor style for using jaalis; they can be used in any setting. A single strip of jaali on a wooden door can add an infinite touch of style to the interiors. It can be used as a decor element by framing the sliding door or as a living hall partition.
... aims at providing privacy
Jaalis allow us to see out but not be seen – though this is dependent on the size of the perforations and the amount of light that passes through. Perforated screens are frequently used on the exteriors of houses as skylights, windows, partition walls, railings, door panels, and other features. They can easily divide the functionalities of the room without having to construct a solid wall. It separates space, at the same time, does not takes up much space. Pooja rooms in modern homes are frequently small and jaalis are an excellent choice for compartmentalizing sacred spaces in the residence while remaining aesthetically pleasing.
... stimulate air movement
A jaali does not completely obstruct the passage of air or light. Due to the general physical behavior of fluids, the air flowing inside through tiny apertures compresses and gains increased velocity, even if the breeze is mild outside. As it emerges from the apertures, it expands and cools. This incoming air can also be controlled by carefully positioning and openings on the jaali panel, hence cooling down the microclimate of the buildings.
… controls light
The jaali is an excellent replacement or addition to windows because they block glare while allowing in much-needed filtered light without entirely blocking the view outside. They keep direct sunlight out, making for more pleasant interiors. They take up very little space and fit perfectly in small apartments. It can also be used as a ceiling element to bring in the optimal light and air. Jaali panels can be used as an option for ceiling designs. It can give a rather Mughalai vibe to the home for really high ceilings.
... cut down on heat
Summer is unmistakably unpleasant in most parts of India. Many of us depend heavily on air conditioners to keep our homes cooler. Jaalis is an eco-friendly tool that can assist in significantly reducing the energy load of cooling as well as the expenses involved with it. The apertures in the jaali effectively reduce heat intrusion during the day. This feature is beneficial to homes in hot-dry and hot-humid climate zones. Jaalis are commonly used as a facade treatment to cut down the heat. The designs for these jaalis are done in various sizes and patterns in brick or terracotta to assist in partially screening the sun.
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