Scholars disagree. The Greeks built “dome-like” structures in the 4th century BCE, said Prof Mohsin Raza Khan. This predates Islam which began only in the 7th Century CE.
During the Renaissance too, the dome became a popular architectural element in both religious and secular buildings, like the dome of St Peter’s Basilica.
“In terms of inclusivity, I think it is a good thing to include eclectic architectural influences, be they Hindu, Buddhist or even Islamic,” Prof Lakshmi said.
“To my mind it is very clear that he is alluding to the razing of that other dome in Ayodhya, which gave the BJP its first taste of mass political success,” said Prof Khan.