Qutub Minar is a towering marvel situated in the heart of Delhi, India. Standing at a staggering height of 73 meters (240 feet), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Let's dive into its fascinating history and some delightful trivia!
History of Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar was commissioned by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, in 1192. It was built to celebrate his victory over the last Hindu kingdom in Delhi. Aibak could only see the completion of the first story before he passed away. The remaining stories were completed by his successor and son-in-law, Iltutmish.
The minar was struck by lightning in 1369, which led to significant damage. The repairs were carried out by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, who not only restored the damaged stories but also added two more stories. Later, during the reign of Sikandar Lodi, further renovations were done.
Architectural Marvel
The Qutub Minar is a classic example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture. It is primarily made of red sandstone, with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran. The minar tapers from a diameter of 14.3 meters at the base to about 2.7 meters at the top. It consists of five distinct stories, each marked by a balcony encircling the tower.
Trivia and Hidden Facts
Lean Like Pisa: Did you know that the Qutub Minar has a slight tilt, similar to the Leaning Tower of Pisa? It's not as pronounced but definitely adds to its character.
The Iron Pillar: In the courtyard of the Qutub Complex stands the Iron Pillar, which dates back to the 4th century. This 7.2-meter tall pillar is famous for its rust-resistant composition of metals. Legend has it that if you can encircle the pillar with your arms while standing with your back to it, your wish will be granted!
Flying Aeroplanes: There's a lesser-known fact that during World War II, the British used the Qutub Minar as a target for their air force to practice flying maneuvers. Thankfully, it remains unscathed from those days.
The Unfinished Dream: Adjacent to the Qutub Minar lies the ruins of Alai Minar, an ambitious project started by Alauddin Khilji. It was supposed to be twice the height of the Qutub Minar but was never completed due to Khilji's death.
Mysterious Inscriptions: The minar is adorned with intricate Arabic inscriptions. Some of these inscriptions narrate the history of its construction and the various renovations it underwent. One such inscription tells us that the minar was built "to cast the shadow of God over both East and West."
Haunted Tales: Some locals believe that the Qutub Minar is haunted. They say that at night, the spirits of those who died during the construction of the minar roam the complex. Spooky, right?
Nearby Attractions
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: Built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, this is the first mosque to be constructed in India. It incorporates materials from 27 demolished Hindu and Jain temples.
Tomb of Iltutmish: This is the final resting place of Iltutmish, one of the key figures in the history of the Qutub Minar. The tomb is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
Alai Darwaza: This is the southern gateway of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and was constructed by Alauddin Khilji. It is famed for its exquisite inlay work and geometric patterns.
Fun Facts for Kids
Parrots Galore: If you visit the Qutub Minar early in the morning, you'll see flocks of parrots flying around. It's a colorful spectacle!
Climbing the Tower: Once upon a time, visitors were allowed to climb the 379 steps to the top of the minar. However, due to a tragic stampede in the 1980s, public access inside the minar has been restricted.
Bollywood Connection: The Qutub Minar has been featured in numerous Bollywood movies, including the iconic film "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham."
Say Cheese!
If you're a photography enthusiast, the Qutub Minar offers a plethora of opportunities. The play of light and shadows, especially during sunrise and sunset, makes for some stunning photographs. Don't forget to capture the intricate carvings up close!
Visiting Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Qutub Minar is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant.
Tickets and Timings: The Qutub Minar is open from sunrise to sunset. Entry fees vary for domestic and international tourists.
Guided Tours: To fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance, consider hiring a local guide or opting for an audio tour.
The Qutub Minar isn't just a monument; it's a storyteller of centuries past, narrating tales of kings, victories, and architectural brilliance. So, the next time you're in Delhi, make sure to pay a visit and let this ancient marvel leave you spellbound!