The impact of the Mughal trends is quite conspicuous in the architecture of Deeg. However, the Jats, the ruling community of Deeg, also adequately contributed in shaping up a particular style of architecture in Deeg. Most of the buildings here have ben built by the Jat rulers. The noteworthy part of their architecture is the beauty of the treatment and presentation.
Architectural excellence of Deeg reached its zenith during the reign of Suraj Mai, the great ruler of Bharatpur and found its fullest expression in the mansions which are called the Bhawans. The prominent characteristics of the palaces and mansions are the balanced outlines, the spacious halls, attractive arcades, enthralling greenery and canals with fountains. The structural elements including the idealistic landscape at Deeg basically are the same as those forming the style of the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. Suraj Mai proved to be a proficient successor of the artistic legacy of the great Mughal builder. Thus formality, balance and symmetry are the fundamentals of the architecture of Deeg.
The building art at Deeg cannot be divided into distinct constructional phases but a close examination of the buildings of Badan Singh and that of his son Suraj Mai reveal some exciting facts that indicates a volatile change with regard to embellishment and ornamentation. The features of Purana Mahal are massive, less systematic, less attractive in interior adornment and the décor of brackets and pillars are relatively simpler in contrast to the Bhawans which are marked by sophistication, the carvings beside the double roof are profuse and delicate and are emphasised on the exterior by lower and upper attic. Hence it can be inferred that the artistic propensity of Badan Singh were more like those of the Rajputs and Suraj Mai"s architectural aesthetics is inclined towards the style of the Mughals.
The materials used in construction were stone, brick and mortar and the edifices were either faced with sandstone slabs pink in colour or were finely plastered. The rubble which have been largely used in many buildings was imported from a near by place called Pahar-Tal and the pinkish sandstone from Bansi and Paharpur in Bharatpur district.
The arcades are of a decorative quality as each arch is formed by joining two spandrel-shaped slab planks projecting from the pillars. The general features are arches resting on elaborate pillars, flat roof-terraces, balconies with Bengal roof, double attic, and spacious internal arrangements. Other appealing features of the structure are pillars with floral bases and narrowing shafts usually surmounted by capitals bearing carved flower-petals. The ceilings are generally flat though innovations can be noticed in certain cases. The semi circular pointed arches are exclusive of the Jat architectural style.
The Bhawan complex at Deeg is an example of fine architecture. The designers of the Bhawan have merged the concept of water palace with the format of a former Mughal garden. Planners of this retreat are greatly influenced from the layout of the Taj. But unlike the Taj Mahal this mansion does not stand very prominent and none of the other principal palaces appear to be inferior to it. It can be deduced that the Jat architects have perhaps symbolised the comparatively independent set-up of their own village community. Although it"s not very striking but each Bhawan possess poise and self-esteem, and this aspect of the structure never hinder the main concept.
The balanced outlines, commodious arcades and the mesmerising greenery make the architecture at Deeg a balances amalgamation of comfort, beauty and grace.
