Jali

It has been observed that humid areas like Kerala and Konkan have larger holes with overall lower opacity than compared with the dry climate regions of Gujarat and Rajasthan.

[3] With the widespread use of glass in the late 19th century, and compactness of the residential areas in modern India, jalis became less frequent for privacy and security matters.

[2] The earliest sanctuaries in India, dedicated to Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism, were often dimly lit and confined, resembling natural caves.

To control the harsh daylight entering the temples, screens known as jalis were used to filter and soften the light, encouraging devotion and directing attention to the sacred images.

[1][7][failed verification] In the Gwalior Fort near the Urwahi gate, there is a 17-line inscription dated Samvat 1553 mentioning names of some craftsmen and their creations.

Jali at Ajitnath Jain Temple , 11th-century Gujarat
A jali is typically open, but this example of a 17th-century jali from the last Mughal period was owned by a wealthy merchant and probably placed with the external portal. Basically, the impression is friendly and inviting as the inside of the palace, but secure to outside world. The iris pattern at the top is a departure from the earlier geometry and indicates a Persian influence.
Jali panels in Rajput style , Hawa Mahal , Jaipur
Jali screens in the tomb of Akbar the Great near Agra , India
Jalis were architectural elements and designed to interlock with repeated patterns. This detail shows the relative thickness and sandstone carving (late 17th-century Mughal origin).