Difference between revisions of "Qutb complex" - New World Encyclopedia
Dan Davies (talk | contribs) |
Dan Davies (talk | contribs) |
||
| Line 14: | Line 14: | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | The '''Qutb complex''' | + | The '''Qutb complex''' refers to an array of monuments and buildings at [[Mehrauli]] in [[Delhi]], [[India]], the [[Qutub Minar]] standing out as the most famous. [[Qutb-ud-din Aybak]], the first ruler of the [[Slave Dynasty]], and his successor [[Iltutmish]] (aka Altmash) first constructed the complex in their new city called the [[Qila Rai Pithora|Qila-Rai-Pithora]] near [[Prithivraj Chauhan]]'s older city. Many subsequent rulers, including Iltutmish and [[Ala ud din Khilji]] as well as the [[British Raj|British]] added to the complex.<ref>Page, J. A. (1926) "An Historical Memoir on the Qutb, Delhi" ''Memoirs of the Archaeological Society of India'' 22: [http://worldcat.org/oclc/5433409 OCLC 5433409]; republished (1970) Lakshmi Book Store, New Delhi, [http://worldcat.org/oclc/202340 OCLC 202340]</ref> |
| − | + | In addition to the most famous monument in the complex, Qutub Minar, other important buildings and structures stand in the complex including the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, the Ala-I-Darwaza, the Alai Minar and the Iron Pillar. Twenty-seven previous Jain temples had been destroyed and their materials reused to construct the minar and other monuments of the complex. | |
<!--[[Image:Qutbcomplex.jpg|150px|left|thumb|A map of the Qutb complex.]]—> | <!--[[Image:Qutbcomplex.jpg|150px|left|thumb|A map of the Qutb complex.]]—> | ||
==Qutub Minar== | ==Qutub Minar== | ||
{{main|Qutub Minar}} | {{main|Qutub Minar}} | ||
| − | |||
| − | Qutub Minar | + | '''Qutub Minar''' ([[Hindi]] : '''क़ुतुब मीनार''' [[Urdu]]: '''قطب منار'''), the tallest brick [[minaret]] in the world, constitutes an important example of [[Indo-Islamic Architecture]]. The tower stands in the [[Qutb complex]] in South [[Delhi]], [[India]]. [[UNESCO]] designated the Qutub Minar and its monuments a [[World Heritage Site]]. |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| + | [[Image:Qutbminarsculpt.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Remanants of the earlier Jain structure.]] | ||
| + | The purpose for building this beautiful monument, apart from the usual function of a minaret as a high place to call people for daily prayers in a [[mosque]] (the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in this complex), as been the subject of speculation. Some scholars have forwarded that hypotheses that Islamic leaders may have construced the structure as a tower of victory, a monument signifying the might of [[Islam]], or a watch tower for defence. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Controversy surrounds the origins for the name of the tower. Many historians believe that the Qutub Minar had been named after the first Turkish sultan, Qutb-ud-din Aibak. Others speculate that that tower had been named in honor of [[Khwaja Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiar Kaki]], a saint from [[Baghdad]] greatly venerated by Akhbar. | ||
| + | <!--[[Image:Qutabminardelhi.jpg|150px|thumb|left|At 72.5 metres high, the Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world.]]—> | ||
<!--:''For information on other notable structures in the Qutb complex, see the [[Qutb complex|main article]].''—> | <!--:''For information on other notable structures in the Qutb complex, see the [[Qutb complex|main article]].''—> | ||
<!--{{coor title d|28.524355|N|77.185248|E|region:IN-DL_type:landmark_scale:50}}—> | <!--{{coor title d|28.524355|N|77.185248|E|region:IN-DL_type:landmark_scale:50}}—> | ||
| − | + | The Qutub Minar stands 72.5 metres high (237.8 ft) with 399 steps leading to the top. Although formerly closed, visitors may climb to the top of the tower for a fee of 500 INR or about US $12. The diameter of the base measures 14.3 metres wide while the top floor spans 2.75 metres in diameter. Many fine examples of [[India]]n artwork from the late 12th century CE surround the [[building]]. A second tower under construction with the plan to surpass the Qutub Minar stopped at about forty feet tall. | |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | The Qutub Minar | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
It is evident from the Indian History and has been accepted by the [[Archaeological Survey of India]] (ASI) that the place where Qutub Minar stands today was once occupied by about 20 Jain temples. These were demolished and the stones reused to build the present complex. An inscription stating this has been put by ASI some 10 meters from the base of the minaret. Jain [[tirthankar]] figurines can be found on many pillars and walls of the complex. | It is evident from the Indian History and has been accepted by the [[Archaeological Survey of India]] (ASI) that the place where Qutub Minar stands today was once occupied by about 20 Jain temples. These were demolished and the stones reused to build the present complex. An inscription stating this has been put by ASI some 10 meters from the base of the minaret. Jain [[tirthankar]] figurines can be found on many pillars and walls of the complex. | ||
| + | [[Image:Qminar.jpg|thumb|right|200px|At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world.]] | ||
| − | Inspired by the [[Minaret of Jam]] in [[Afghanistan]] and wishing to surpass it, [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]], the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced construction of the Qutub Minar in | + | Inspired by the [[Minaret of Jam]] in [[Afghanistan]] and wishing to surpass it, [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]], the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced construction of the Qutub Minar in 1193, but could only complete its basement. His successor, [[Iltutmish]], added three more [[storey|storeys]] and, in 1368, [[Firuz Shah Tughluq]] constructed the fifth and the last storey. The development of architectural styles from Aibak to Tuglak are quite evident in the minaret. Like earlier towers erected by the [[Ghaznavids]] and [[Ghurids]] in Afghanistan, the Qutub Mahal comprises several superposed flanged and [[cylindrical]] shafts, separated by [[balcony|balconies]] carried on [[Muqarnas]] [[corbel|corbels]]. The minaret is made of fluted red [[sandstone]] covered with intricate carvings and verses from the [[Qur'an]]. The Qutub Minar is itself built on the ruins of [[Lal Kot]], the [[Red Citadel]] in the city of Dhillika, the capital of the [[Jat Tomars]] and the [[Chauhans]], the last [[Hindu]] rulers of [[Delhi]]. |
The purpose for building this beautiful monument has been speculated upon. It can take the usual role of a minaret, calling people for prayer in the Quwwat-ul-Islam [[mosque]], the earliest extant mosque built by the Delhi Sultans. Other possibilities are a tower of victory, a monument signifying the might of [[Islam]], or a watch tower for defence. Controversy also surrounds the origins for the name of the tower. Many historians believe that the Qutub Minar was named after the first Turkish sultan, [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]] but others contend that it was named in honour of [[Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki]], a saint from [[Baghdad]] who came to live in India who was greatly venerated by Iltutmish. | The purpose for building this beautiful monument has been speculated upon. It can take the usual role of a minaret, calling people for prayer in the Quwwat-ul-Islam [[mosque]], the earliest extant mosque built by the Delhi Sultans. Other possibilities are a tower of victory, a monument signifying the might of [[Islam]], or a watch tower for defence. Controversy also surrounds the origins for the name of the tower. Many historians believe that the Qutub Minar was named after the first Turkish sultan, [[Qutb-ud-din Aibak]] but others contend that it was named in honour of [[Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki]], a saint from [[Baghdad]] who came to live in India who was greatly venerated by Iltutmish. | ||
According to the inscriptions on its surface it was repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq (AD 1351–88) and Sikandar Lodi (AD 1489–1517). Major R.Smith also repaired and restored the minaret in 1829. | According to the inscriptions on its surface it was repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq (AD 1351–88) and Sikandar Lodi (AD 1489–1517). Major R.Smith also repaired and restored the minaret in 1829. | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
<!--* {{wikitravel}}—> | <!--* {{wikitravel}}—> | ||
| − | |||
<!--{{credits|Qutub_Minar|168588252}}—> | <!--{{credits|Qutub_Minar|168588252}}—> | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
==Alai Minar== | ==Alai Minar== | ||
| Line 67: | Line 48: | ||
==Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque== | ==Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque== | ||
| + | Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque (Might of Islam) (also known as the ''Qutb Mosque'' or the ''Great Mosque of Delhi'') was built by Qutb-ud-din Aybak, founder of the [[Mamluk]] or [[Slave dynasty]]. The mosque construction started in the 1190s when Aibak was the commander of [[Muhammad Ghori]]'s [[garrison]] occupied Delhi. The mosque is said to be built by the parts taken by destruction of twenty-seven [[Hindu]] and [[Jain]] [[temples]]. | ||
| + | Historical records compiled by Muslim historian Maulana Hakim Saiyid Abdul Hai attest to the iconoclasm of Qutb-ud-din Aybak. | ||
[[Image:India-Qutb-Decor.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Many types of structure still stand in the complex.]] | [[Image:India-Qutb-Decor.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Many types of structure still stand in the complex.]] | ||
| − | + | ||
| − | + | The first mosque built in Delhi, the "[[Qutb complex#Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque|Quwwat al-Islam]]" was built after demolishing the [[Jain]] temple built previously by Prithvi Raj and leaving certain parts of the temple outside the mosque proper.<ref name="Hai">Maulana Hakim Saiyid Abdul Hai "Hindustan Islami Ahad Mein" (Hindustan under Islamic rule), Eng Trans by Maulana Abdul Hasan Nadwi</ref> This pattern of iconoclasm was common during his reign, although an argument goes that such iconoclasm was motivated more by politics than by religion.<ref>[http://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routes/1200_1299/index_1200_1299.html Index_1200-1299],''Columbia.edu''</ref>It was the first mosque built in Delhi after the Islamic conquest of India and the best surviving example of Ghurid's architecture. | |
Expansion of the mosque continued after the death of Qutub. His successor Iltutmish extended the original prayer hall screen by three more arches. By the time of Iltutmish, the Mamluk empire had stabilized enough that the Sultan could replace most of his conscripted Hindu masons with Muslims. This explains why the arches added under Iltutmish are stylistically more Islamic than the ones erected under Qutb's rule. | Expansion of the mosque continued after the death of Qutub. His successor Iltutmish extended the original prayer hall screen by three more arches. By the time of Iltutmish, the Mamluk empire had stabilized enough that the Sultan could replace most of his conscripted Hindu masons with Muslims. This explains why the arches added under Iltutmish are stylistically more Islamic than the ones erected under Qutb's rule. | ||
| Line 83: | Line 66: | ||
==Iron pillar== | ==Iron pillar== | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
{{main|Iron pillar}} | {{main|Iron pillar}} | ||
| + | [[Image:India-Qutb-Iron.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Inscriptions have survived the test of time on the iron pillar.]] | ||
The iron pillar is one of the world’s foremost metallurgical curiosities. The pillar, almost seven metres high and weighing more than six tonnes, was erected by Chandragupta II Vikramaditya (375–414 C.E.), (interpretation based on careful analysis of archer type Gupta gold coins) of the [[Gupta dynasty]] that ruled northern India 320–540. The pillar, with an idol of [[Garuda]] at the top, was originally located at a place called Vishnupadagiri (meaning “Vishnu-footprint-hill”), identified as modern Udayagiri, situated in the close vicinity of Besnagar, Vidisha and Sanchi, towns located about 50 kilometres east of Bhopal, in central India. Vishnupadagiri is located on the Tropic of Cancer and, therefore, was a centre of astronomical studies during the Gupta period. The Iron Pillar served an important astronomical function, in its original site; its early morning shadow fell in the direction of the foot of Anantasayain Vishnu (in one of the panels at Udayagiri) only in the time around summer solstice (June 21). The creation and development of the Udayagiri site appears to have been clearly guided by a highly developed astronomical knowledge. Therefore, the Udayagiri site, in general, and the Iron Pillar location in particular, provide firm evidence for the astronomical knowledge in India around 400 C.E. | The iron pillar is one of the world’s foremost metallurgical curiosities. The pillar, almost seven metres high and weighing more than six tonnes, was erected by Chandragupta II Vikramaditya (375–414 C.E.), (interpretation based on careful analysis of archer type Gupta gold coins) of the [[Gupta dynasty]] that ruled northern India 320–540. The pillar, with an idol of [[Garuda]] at the top, was originally located at a place called Vishnupadagiri (meaning “Vishnu-footprint-hill”), identified as modern Udayagiri, situated in the close vicinity of Besnagar, Vidisha and Sanchi, towns located about 50 kilometres east of Bhopal, in central India. Vishnupadagiri is located on the Tropic of Cancer and, therefore, was a centre of astronomical studies during the Gupta period. The Iron Pillar served an important astronomical function, in its original site; its early morning shadow fell in the direction of the foot of Anantasayain Vishnu (in one of the panels at Udayagiri) only in the time around summer solstice (June 21). The creation and development of the Udayagiri site appears to have been clearly guided by a highly developed astronomical knowledge. Therefore, the Udayagiri site, in general, and the Iron Pillar location in particular, provide firm evidence for the astronomical knowledge in India around 400 C.E. | ||
It is the only piece of the Jain temple remaining, which stood there before being destroyed by Qutb-ud-din Aybak to build the Qutub Minar and Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. Qutub built around it when he constructed the mosque. | It is the only piece of the Jain temple remaining, which stood there before being destroyed by Qutb-ud-din Aybak to build the Qutub Minar and Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. Qutub built around it when he constructed the mosque. | ||
| + | [[Image:QutbIronInscription.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Translation of the inscription in English.]] | ||
The pillar bears an inscription which states that it was erected as a flagstaff in honour of the Hindu god, [[Vishnu]], and in the memory of the Gupta King [[Chandragupta II]] (375–413). Made up of 98% [[wrought iron]] of pure quality, it is 23 feet 8 inches (7.21 m) high and has a diameter of 16 inches (0.41 m). Also, it was confirmed that the temperatures required to form such kind of pillars cannot be achieved by combustion of coal. The pillar is a testament to the high level of skill achieved by ancient Indian iron smiths in the extraction and processing of iron. | The pillar bears an inscription which states that it was erected as a flagstaff in honour of the Hindu god, [[Vishnu]], and in the memory of the Gupta King [[Chandragupta II]] (375–413). Made up of 98% [[wrought iron]] of pure quality, it is 23 feet 8 inches (7.21 m) high and has a diameter of 16 inches (0.41 m). Also, it was confirmed that the temperatures required to form such kind of pillars cannot be achieved by combustion of coal. The pillar is a testament to the high level of skill achieved by ancient Indian iron smiths in the extraction and processing of iron. | ||
| Line 97: | Line 79: | ||
A fence was erected around the pillar due to the popularity of a tradition that considered good luck if you could stand with your back to the pillar and make your hands meet behind it. | A fence was erected around the pillar due to the popularity of a tradition that considered good luck if you could stand with your back to the pillar and make your hands meet behind it. | ||
| − | == | + | ==Qutb Complex Gallery== |
| − | < | + | <gallery> |
| + | Image:Qutab.jpg|The Qutab Minar | ||
| + | Image:9936775.jpg |Writing on the Minar. | ||
| + | Image:Minar-height.jpg|Qutub Minar, as seen from a surrounding gate, and its height in comparison to humans. | ||
| + | Image:India-Qutb-Close.jpg|A wide range of architecture resides in the complex. | ||
| + | Image:QutbMinar.JPG|Remains of Jain temple hallway inside the Qutb complex. | ||
| + | Image:Red_engravings.jpg|Intricate engravings surround the crypt. | ||
| + | Image:minar9936775.jpg|A close-up of the minaret | ||
| + | Image:Qutub_minar.JPG|The Qutub Minar and surrounding ruins. | ||
| + | Image:Qutub Minar at night.jpg|The Qutub Minar at night. | ||
| + | Image:India-Qutb-Yard.jpg|Open areas serve as a restful place for the abundant visitors. | ||
| + | Image:India-Qutb-Ruins.jpg|Some areas of the complex have only a few structures still standing. | ||
| + | Image:India-Qutb-Tower.jpg|Tourists flock to the complex daily. | ||
| + | <!--Image:India-Qutb-Silho.jpg|The Qutb Minar's size makes it visible from far around.—> | ||
| + | <!--Image:India-Qutb-Silho.jpg|The Qutub Minar's size makes it visible from far around.—> | ||
| + | <!--Image:India-Qutb-Bird.jpg|Wildlife thrives in the ruins.—> | ||
| + | <!--Image:India-Qutb-Treelight.jpg|Parts of the complex are reminiscent of a nature reserve, with no buildings around.—> | ||
| + | <!--Image:India-Qutb-Pigeons.jpg|The Qutb complex is home to many birds, such as these pigeons.—> | ||
| + | <!-- Image with unknown copyright status removed: Image:Qutb_buildings.jpg|The tower as viewed from the South. —> | ||
| + | <!--Image:Qutabminardelhi.jpg|Qutub Minar, as seen from a surrounding gate, and its height in comparison to humans.—> | ||
| + | |||
| + | </gallery> | ||
| + | |||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
*[[Indian architecture]] | *[[Indian architecture]] | ||
*[[Islamic architecture]] | *[[Islamic architecture]] | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==Notes== | ||
| + | <references/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==References== | ||
| + | * Archaeological Survey of India. Humayun's Tomb & Adjacent Monuments. World heritage series. New Delhi: Archaeological Survey of India, 2002. ISBN 9788187780083 | ||
| + | * India. Qutb Minar & the Qutb Complex. New Delhi: Publication Division, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Govt. of India, 2005. OCLC: 173623648 | ||
| + | * Jain, A. C. A Guide to the Kutab Minar. Delhi: Jainco, 1900. OCLC: 3634424 | ||
| + | * Page, J. A., and Y. D. Sharma. Qutab Minar & Adjoining Monuments. World heritage series. New Delhi: Archaeological Survey of India, 2002. ISBN 9788187780076 | ||
| + | * Peck, Lucy. Delhi, a Thousand Years of Building. New Delhi: The Lotus Collection, 2005. ISBN 9788174363541 | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
| Line 112: | Line 126: | ||
*[http://www.ianandwendy.com/OtherTrips/India/Delhi/Qutb%20Minar/slideshow.htm Photo gallery of the Qutb complex]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | *[http://www.ianandwendy.com/OtherTrips/India/Delhi/Qutb%20Minar/slideshow.htm Photo gallery of the Qutb complex]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | ||
<!--{{commons2|Qutb Minar}}—> | <!--{{commons2|Qutb Minar}}—> | ||
| − | |||
*[http://photography.robins.in/monuments/subalbum_1.html Qutub Minar at night]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | *[http://photography.robins.in/monuments/subalbum_1.html Qutub Minar at night]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | ||
*[http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=28.524355,77.185248&q=28.524355,77.185248&spn=0.002211,0.00537&t=h Qutb Minar from satellite, recognizable by its long shadow]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | *[http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=28.524355,77.185248&q=28.524355,77.185248&spn=0.002211,0.00537&t=h Qutb Minar from satellite, recognizable by its long shadow]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | ||
| Line 119: | Line 132: | ||
*[http://www.collectbritain.co.uk/dlo.cfm/svadesh/019PHO000000971U00004000.htm 19th century photography by Eugene Clutterbuck Impey]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | *[http://www.collectbritain.co.uk/dlo.cfm/svadesh/019PHO000000971U00004000.htm 19th century photography by Eugene Clutterbuck Impey]. Retrieved November 14, 2007. | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
{{World Heritage Sites in India}} | {{World Heritage Sites in India}} | ||
{{credits|Qutb_complex|166457674|Qutub_Minar|168588252|}} | {{credits|Qutb_complex|166457674|Qutub_Minar|168588252|}} | ||
Revision as of 14:58, 14 November 2007
| Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi* | |
|---|---|
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
The Qutub Minar and surrounding ruins. | |
| State Party |  India
|
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | iv |
| Reference | 233 |
| Region** | Asia-Pacific |
| Inscription history | |
| Inscription | 1993 (17th Session) |
| * Name as inscribed on World Heritage List. ** Region as classified by UNESCO. | |
The Qutb complex refers to an array of monuments and buildings at Mehrauli in Delhi, India, the Qutub Minar standing out as the most famous. Qutb-ud-din Aybak, the first ruler of the Slave Dynasty, and his successor Iltutmish (aka Altmash) first constructed the complex in their new city called the Qila-Rai-Pithora near Prithivraj Chauhan's older city. Many subsequent rulers, including Iltutmish and Ala ud din Khilji as well as the British added to the complex.[1]
In addition to the most famous monument in the complex, Qutub Minar, other important buildings and structures stand in the complex including the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, the Ala-I-Darwaza, the Alai Minar and the Iron Pillar. Twenty-seven previous Jain temples had been destroyed and their materials reused to construct the minar and other monuments of the complex.
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar (Hindi : क़ुतुब मीनार Urdu: قطب منار), the tallest brick minaret in the world, constitutes an important example of Indo-Islamic Architecture. The tower stands in the Qutb complex in South Delhi, India. UNESCO designated the Qutub Minar and its monuments a World Heritage Site.
The purpose for building this beautiful monument, apart from the usual function of a minaret as a high place to call people for daily prayers in a mosque (the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in this complex), as been the subject of speculation. Some scholars have forwarded that hypotheses that Islamic leaders may have construced the structure as a tower of victory, a monument signifying the might of Islam, or a watch tower for defence.
Controversy surrounds the origins for the name of the tower. Many historians believe that the Qutub Minar had been named after the first Turkish sultan, Qutb-ud-din Aibak. Others speculate that that tower had been named in honor of Khwaja Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiar Kaki, a saint from Baghdad greatly venerated by Akhbar. The Qutub Minar stands 72.5 metres high (237.8 ft) with 399 steps leading to the top. Although formerly closed, visitors may climb to the top of the tower for a fee of 500 INR or about US $12. The diameter of the base measures 14.3 metres wide while the top floor spans 2.75 metres in diameter. Many fine examples of Indian artwork from the late 12th century CE surround the building. A second tower under construction with the plan to surpass the Qutub Minar stopped at about forty feet tall.
It is evident from the Indian History and has been accepted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) that the place where Qutub Minar stands today was once occupied by about 20 Jain temples. These were demolished and the stones reused to build the present complex. An inscription stating this has been put by ASI some 10 meters from the base of the minaret. Jain tirthankar figurines can be found on many pillars and walls of the complex.
Inspired by the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan and wishing to surpass it, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced construction of the Qutub Minar in 1193, but could only complete its basement. His successor, Iltutmish, added three more storeys and, in 1368, Firuz Shah Tughluq constructed the fifth and the last storey. The development of architectural styles from Aibak to Tuglak are quite evident in the minaret. Like earlier towers erected by the Ghaznavids and Ghurids in Afghanistan, the Qutub Mahal comprises several superposed flanged and cylindrical shafts, separated by balconies carried on Muqarnas corbels. The minaret is made of fluted red sandstone covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur'an. The Qutub Minar is itself built on the ruins of Lal Kot, the Red Citadel in the city of Dhillika, the capital of the Jat Tomars and the Chauhans, the last Hindu rulers of Delhi.
The purpose for building this beautiful monument has been speculated upon. It can take the usual role of a minaret, calling people for prayer in the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, the earliest extant mosque built by the Delhi Sultans. Other possibilities are a tower of victory, a monument signifying the might of Islam, or a watch tower for defence. Controversy also surrounds the origins for the name of the tower. Many historians believe that the Qutub Minar was named after the first Turkish sultan, Qutb-ud-din Aibak but others contend that it was named in honour of Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a saint from Baghdad who came to live in India who was greatly venerated by Iltutmish. According to the inscriptions on its surface it was repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq (AD 1351–88) and Sikandar Lodi (AD 1489–1517). Major R.Smith also repaired and restored the minaret in 1829.
Alai Minar
Ala ud din Khilji started building the Alai Minar, which was conceived to be two times higher than Qutub Minar. The construction was abandoned, however, after the completion of the 24.5 meter high first storey; soon after death of Ala-ud-din. The first story of the Alai Minar still stands today.
Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque
Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque (Might of Islam) (also known as the Qutb Mosque or the Great Mosque of Delhi) was built by Qutb-ud-din Aybak, founder of the Mamluk or Slave dynasty. The mosque construction started in the 1190s when Aibak was the commander of Muhammad Ghori's garrison occupied Delhi. The mosque is said to be built by the parts taken by destruction of twenty-seven Hindu and Jain temples. Historical records compiled by Muslim historian Maulana Hakim Saiyid Abdul Hai attest to the iconoclasm of Qutb-ud-din Aybak.
The first mosque built in Delhi, the "Quwwat al-Islam" was built after demolishing the Jain temple built previously by Prithvi Raj and leaving certain parts of the temple outside the mosque proper.[2] This pattern of iconoclasm was common during his reign, although an argument goes that such iconoclasm was motivated more by politics than by religion.[3]It was the first mosque built in Delhi after the Islamic conquest of India and the best surviving example of Ghurid's architecture.
Expansion of the mosque continued after the death of Qutub. His successor Iltutmish extended the original prayer hall screen by three more arches. By the time of Iltutmish, the Mamluk empire had stabilized enough that the Sultan could replace most of his conscripted Hindu masons with Muslims. This explains why the arches added under Iltutmish are stylistically more Islamic than the ones erected under Qutb's rule.
The mosque is in ruins today but indigenous corbelled arches, floral motifs, and geometric patterns can be seen among the Islamic architectural structures.
To the west of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque is the tomb of Iltutmish which was built by the monarch in 1235.
Ala-I-Darwaza
The Ala-I-Darwaza is a magnificent gateway in the complex. The gateway was built by the first Khilji sultan of Delhi, Ala ud din Khilji. The gateway is decorated with inlaid marble decorations, latticed stone screens and showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of the Turkish artisans who worked on it.
it is considered to one of the best building built in the sultanat period.with its horse shoe shaped arches it aads a grace to the quw'at'ul islam mosque to which it served as an enternce.
Iron pillar
The iron pillar is one of the world’s foremost metallurgical curiosities. The pillar, almost seven metres high and weighing more than six tonnes, was erected by Chandragupta II Vikramaditya (375–414 C.E.), (interpretation based on careful analysis of archer type Gupta gold coins) of the Gupta dynasty that ruled northern India 320–540. The pillar, with an idol of Garuda at the top, was originally located at a place called Vishnupadagiri (meaning “Vishnu-footprint-hill”), identified as modern Udayagiri, situated in the close vicinity of Besnagar, Vidisha and Sanchi, towns located about 50 kilometres east of Bhopal, in central India. Vishnupadagiri is located on the Tropic of Cancer and, therefore, was a centre of astronomical studies during the Gupta period. The Iron Pillar served an important astronomical function, in its original site; its early morning shadow fell in the direction of the foot of Anantasayain Vishnu (in one of the panels at Udayagiri) only in the time around summer solstice (June 21). The creation and development of the Udayagiri site appears to have been clearly guided by a highly developed astronomical knowledge. Therefore, the Udayagiri site, in general, and the Iron Pillar location in particular, provide firm evidence for the astronomical knowledge in India around 400 C.E.
It is the only piece of the Jain temple remaining, which stood there before being destroyed by Qutb-ud-din Aybak to build the Qutub Minar and Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. Qutub built around it when he constructed the mosque.
The pillar bears an inscription which states that it was erected as a flagstaff in honour of the Hindu god, Vishnu, and in the memory of the Gupta King Chandragupta II (375–413). Made up of 98% wrought iron of pure quality, it is 23 feet 8 inches (7.21 m) high and has a diameter of 16 inches (0.41 m). Also, it was confirmed that the temperatures required to form such kind of pillars cannot be achieved by combustion of coal. The pillar is a testament to the high level of skill achieved by ancient Indian iron smiths in the extraction and processing of iron.
It has attracted the attention of archaeologists and metallurgists as it has withstood corrosion for the last 1600 years, despite harsh weather. Its unusually good corrosion resistance appears to be due to a high phosphorus content, which together with favorable local weather conditions promotes the formation of a solid protective passivation layer of iron oxides and phosphates, rather than the non-protective, cracked rust layer that develops on most ironwork.
A fence was erected around the pillar due to the popularity of a tradition that considered good luck if you could stand with your back to the pillar and make your hands meet behind it.
Qutb Complex Gallery
The Qutab Minar
Writing on the Minar.
Qutub Minar, as seen from a surrounding gate, and its height in comparison to humans.
A wide range of architecture resides in the complex.
Remains of Jain temple hallway inside the Qutb complex.
Intricate engravings surround the crypt.
A close-up of the minaret
- Qutub minar.JPG
The Qutub Minar and surrounding ruins.
The Qutub Minar at night.
Open areas serve as a restful place for the abundant visitors.
Some areas of the complex have only a few structures still standing.
Tourists flock to the complex daily.
See also
- Indian architecture
- Islamic architecture
Notes
- ↑ Page, J. A. (1926) "An Historical Memoir on the Qutb, Delhi" Memoirs of the Archaeological Society of India 22: OCLC 5433409; republished (1970) Lakshmi Book Store, New Delhi, OCLC 202340
- ↑ Maulana Hakim Saiyid Abdul Hai "Hindustan Islami Ahad Mein" (Hindustan under Islamic rule), Eng Trans by Maulana Abdul Hasan Nadwi
- ↑ Index_1200-1299,Columbia.edu
ReferencesISBN links support NWE through referral fees
- Archaeological Survey of India. Humayun's Tomb & Adjacent Monuments. World heritage series. New Delhi: Archaeological Survey of India, 2002. ISBN 9788187780083
- India. Qutb Minar & the Qutb Complex. New Delhi: Publication Division, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Govt. of India, 2005. OCLC: 173623648
- Jain, A. C. A Guide to the Kutab Minar. Delhi: Jainco, 1900. OCLC: 3634424
- Page, J. A., and Y. D. Sharma. Qutab Minar & Adjoining Monuments. World heritage series. New Delhi: Archaeological Survey of India, 2002. ISBN 9788187780076
- Peck, Lucy. Delhi, a Thousand Years of Building. New Delhi: The Lotus Collection, 2005. ISBN 9788174363541
External links
- Entry in the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Quwwat Al-Islam Mosque. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Corrosion resistance of Delhi iron pillar. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Nondestructive evaluation of the Delhi iron pillar, Current Science, Indian Academy of Sciences, Vol. 88, No. 12, 25 June 2005 (PDF). Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Photographs of Qutb Minar and other sites in Delhi. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Photo gallery of the Qutb complex. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Qutub Minar at night. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Qutb Minar from satellite, recognizable by its long shadow. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Qutab Minar. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- Downloadable photos Qutab Minar. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
- 19th century photography by Eugene Clutterbuck Impey. Retrieved November 14, 2007.
| |||||||
Credits
New World Encyclopedia writers and editors rewrote and completed the Wikipedia article in accordance with New World Encyclopedia standards. This article abides by terms of the Creative Commons CC-by-sa 3.0 License (CC-by-sa), which may be used and disseminated with proper attribution. Credit is due under the terms of this license that can reference both the New World Encyclopedia contributors and the selfless volunteer contributors of the Wikimedia Foundation. To cite this article click here for a list of acceptable citing formats.The history of earlier contributions by wikipedians is accessible to researchers here:
The history of this article since it was imported to New World Encyclopedia:
Note: Some restrictions may apply to use of individual images which are separately licensed.
