Early History of Kutub Minar

 Introduction

Kutub Minar is one of the most prominent monuments in India and is situated in the national capital, Delhi. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered as an architectural marvel. The monument has a rich history that dates back to the early 13th century. In this article, we will explore the history of Kutub Minar in detail.

Early History of Kutub Minar Kutub Minar was built during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate, which lasted from the 12th century to the 16th century. The Sultanate was founded by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who was a general of the Ghurid Empire. Aibak ruled Delhi from 1206 to 1210 and during his reign, he built the first mosque in Delhi, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. The mosque was built on the site of a Hindu temple and was designed to be a symbol of the Islamic faith.

Construction of Kutub Minar The construction of Kutub Minar began in 1192 during the reign of Qutb-ud-din Aibak. It is said that Aibak wanted to build a tower that was higher than any other tower in the world. He started the construction of the tower with a height of 72.5 meters. The tower was constructed using red sandstone and marble and had five distinct stories. Each story had a balcony that offered a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The tower was completed by Aibak's successor, Iltutmish. Iltutmish added three more stories to the tower, bringing the total height of the tower to 73 meters. The additional stories were built using marble and sandstone and had intricate carvings and inscriptions on them.

Purpose of Kutub Minar The purpose of Kutub Minar is still a matter of debate. Some historians believe that the tower was built as a symbol of victory and power. It is said that Aibak built the tower to commemorate his victory over the Rajputs. The tower was also used as a minaret to call the faithful to prayer.

Others believe that the tower was built as an observatory. The tower has a spiral staircase that leads to the top, where there is a small room. It is said that the room was used by astronomers to observe the stars and planets.

Restoration and Preservation of Kutub Minar Over the centuries, Kutub Minar has undergone several restorations and renovations. The tower was damaged by an earthquake in 1505, and it was repaired by Sikandar Lodi. In the 19th century, the tower was damaged by lightning, and it was repaired by Major Robert Smith.

In the 20th century, the tower underwent extensive restoration work, which was carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India. The restoration work involved the repair of the damaged portions of the tower and the strengthening of the foundation. The tower was also cleaned, and the carvings and inscriptions were restored.

Conclusion Kutub Minar is a magnificent monument that is a testament to the rich history of India. The tower has stood the test of time and has survived several natural disasters. It is a symbol of the power and glory of the Delhi Sultanate and is an important part of India's heritage. The monument attracts thousands of visitors every year, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the rich history and culture of India.