The standing legacy of ancient India

Our country India is the meeting place of various religions of the world. The Qutub Minar, located in the heart of the country, is a unique example of historical architecture.

Located in the Indian capital Delhi, the 238-foot-tall red sandstone monument is still the tallest 'brick monument' in the world. The precincts of the monument have the Alai Gate, the Alai Mina, the Kuwait-ul-Islam Mosque (one of the oldest mosques in India), the tomb of Iltutmish and an iron pillar.

The construction of this tower was started by Qutbuddin Ibek in 1192, and completed during the reign of Iltutmish (1211-36). It was called 'Manara' until it was first named 'Qutub Minar' during British rule. Emperor Babur in his autobiography Baburnama also called it 'Alauddin Khilji's Minar' instead of 'Qutub Minar. Even in the writings of Ibn Battuta, there is no mention of the name 'Qutub Minar'. The Qutub Minar consists of various cylindrical shafts separated by a verandah. The minaret is made of red sandstone, the cover of which is engraved with verses from the Holy Qur'an. The centre of the precinct is 8.02 m (23 ft) high with a shiny iron pillar, which has not rusted to this day. This iron pillar has an inscription in Sanskrit by Chandragupta II.

History of construction

Historians differ as to what exactly caused the Qutub Minar to be built. According to many, this minaret was not built for the memory of Qutb Uddin Bakhtiyar Kaki. Rather, the monument was built in the heart of the subcontinent as a symbol of the bravery and heroism of the Islamic rulers. The victorious sagas of Sultan Qutbuddin Aibak of Delhi were engraved on this tower. Many believe that the minaret was built to advocate the glory and fame of the Ghur Empire. There are many similarities between the architecture of this minaret and the architecture of 'Jam Minar' in Afghanistan.

Built to propagate and expand the influence of Islam, the minaret symbolizes the pluralism of the Indian subcontinent. This stunning architectural masterpiece has been listed as one of the world's unique historical monuments by the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Qutub Minar carries the legacy of India

Every year millions of travellers come to see this architectural magnificence. The Qutub Minar is proudly carrying the tradition of the great reunion between the diversities of India. This wonderful heritage, a mixture of old history, religion, tradition and culture, is the pride of our country.