Part of: Delhi Gk set 29

Hauz Khas was built by

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the historical period and the rulers of Delhi during the 13th century.

Correct Answer: A) Ala-ud-din

Exam Relevance: CBSE, UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Hauz Khas is a significant historical water tank located in South Delhi, India. It was constructed in the 13th century during the reign of Ala-ud-din Khalji, who was a prominent ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. The construction of Hauz Khas was part of a larger urban development project that included the founding of the city of Siri, one of the seven historical cities of Delhi.

Ala-ud-din Khalji ruled from 1296 to 1316 and was known for his military conquests and administrative reforms. He was also responsible for several architectural projects, including the construction of Hauz Khas. The water tank was designed to provide a reliable water supply to the city of Siri, which was built to serve as a military stronghold and a new capital for the Delhi Sultanate.

The construction of Hauz Khas was a significant engineering feat for its time. It was designed to collect rainwater and provide a consistent water supply to the city. The tank is surrounded by a complex of buildings, including a madrasa (Islamic seminary) and a mosque, which were also constructed during the same period. The madrasa was established to provide education and religious instruction to the residents of the city.

Understanding the historical context of Hauz Khas is important for comprehending the urban development and architectural achievements of the Delhi Sultanate. The construction of such large-scale water tanks was a common practice during this period, as they were essential for the survival and growth of cities in the arid and semi-arid regions of India. Hauz Khas stands as a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of the Delhi Sultanate and continues to be an important historical site in Delhi today.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Hauz Khas was indeed built by Ala-ud-din Khalji, a prominent ruler of the Delhi Sultanate during the 13th century. The construction of Hauz Khas was part of his efforts to provide water resources to the city of Siri, which he founded.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, did not build Hauz Khas. Aibak ruled in the early 13th century, and Hauz Khas was constructed later during the reign of Ala-ud-din Khalji.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Hauz Khas was not built by either Aibak or Ala-ud-din. It was specifically constructed by Ala-ud-din Khalji to serve the needs of the city of Siri.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Hauz Khas was built by Ala-ud-din Khalji, so it is not true that neither Aibak nor Ala-ud-din built it.

Mnemonic: Hauz Khas, Ala-ud-din, 13th century, Delhi Sultanate

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