📚 Part of: Delhi History Mcqs: Ancient Names, Tomara Rulers, Sultanate Era

WHO COMPLETED THE PROJECT OF MAKING QUTUM MINAR AFTER QUTUBUDDIN AIBAK DIED?

Category: Delhi Gk

Correct Answer: C) ILTUTMISH.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, Delhi State Services, History Exams, Archaeology Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

The Qutub Minar, a significant historical monument in Delhi, was initiated by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi. However, Aibak died before its completion, and the project was continued and completed by his successor, Iltutmish.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing the roles of different Delhi Sultans in the construction of the Qutub Minar.
  • Overlooking the historical sequence of rulers and their contributions.
  • Misattributing the completion of the Qutub Minar to other rulers of the Delhi Sultanate.
Explanation:

The Qutub Minar, located in Delhi, is one of the most iconic and historically significant monuments in India. It was initiated by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, who founded the Slave dynasty in the early 13th century. Aibak laid the foundation of the Qutub Minar in 1193, intending it to be a victory tower and a minaret for the call to prayer. However, Aibak died in 1210 before the project could be completed.

The completion of the Qutub Minar was taken up by Iltutmish, who succeeded Aibak as the third Sultan of Delhi. Iltutmish not only completed the tower but also added the first three storeys to it. The Qutub Minar stands as a testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the Delhi Sultanate, showcasing the grandeur and power of the early Muslim rulers in India.

Iltutmish's contribution to the Qutub Minar is significant not only because he completed the structure but also because he added to its grandeur. The tower stands at a height of 73 meters and is made of red sandstone and marble. It is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, reflecting the artistic and cultural influences of the time.

Understanding the historical context of the Qutub Minar and the roles of different rulers in its construction is crucial for comprehending the architectural and cultural heritage of Delhi. The Qutub Minar is not just a monument but a symbol of the rich history and diverse cultural influences that have shaped Delhi over the centuries.

In summary, the Qutub Minar was completed by Iltutmish, who continued and expanded upon the work initiated by Qutbuddin Aibak. This historical fact is important for students of Delhi's history and architecture, as it highlights the contributions of the early Delhi Sultans to the city's architectural landscape.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Jalaluddin Khilji is incorrect. He was a later ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and did not have any direct involvement in the construction of the Qutub Minar. The Khilji dynasty came after the Slave dynasty, which included Iltutmish.
  • Option B: Balban is incorrect. Balban was a powerful ruler of the Slave dynasty, but he came after Iltutmish. The construction of the Qutub Minar was completed before Balban's reign.
  • Option C: Iltutmish is correct. Iltutmish, the third ruler of the Slave dynasty, completed the Qutub Minar after Qutbuddin Aibak's death. He also added the first three storeys to the structure, which was initially started by Aibak.
  • Option D: Timur is incorrect. Timur, also known as Tamerlane, was a conqueror who invaded India much later, in the 14th century. He had no involvement in the construction of the Qutub Minar, which was completed centuries before his invasion.

Mnemonic: Qutub Minar's completion: "I" for Iltutmish

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