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

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the timeline of Delhi's sultanate rulers and their contributions.

Correct Answer: C) ILTUTMISH

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Qutub Minar, located in Delhi, is one of the most iconic and historically significant structures in India. It was initiated by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, who founded the Slave Dynasty. However, Aibak did not live to see the completion of the minaret. The construction of the Qutub Minar was continued and completed by his successor, Iltutmish, who was the second Sultan of the Slave Dynasty.

Qutbuddin Aibak laid the foundation of the Qutub Minar in 1193, but he died in 1210 before the project could be completed. Iltutmish, who ascended to the throne in 1211, took over the construction and added more stories to the minaret. He completed the Qutub Minar in 1220, making it a symbol of the Delhi Sultanate's power and architectural prowess.

The Qutub Minar is not just a minaret but also a victory tower, commemorating the victory of the Delhi Sultanate over the Rajputs. It stands at a height of 73 meters and is made of red sandstone and marble. The minaret is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, reflecting the architectural style of the time.

Understanding the historical context of the Qutub Minar's construction is essential for comprehending the contributions of the Delhi Sultanate rulers. Iltutmish's role in completing the Qutub Minar is particularly significant as it showcases his commitment to continuing the legacy of his predecessor and establishing a strong architectural presence in Delhi.

It is important to note that other rulers mentioned in the options, such as Jalaluddin Khilji and Balban, came to power much later and were not involved in the construction of the Qutub Minar. Timur, on the other hand, was a conqueror who invaded India in the 14th century and had no connection to the Qutub Minar's construction.

Thus, the correct answer is Iltutmish, who completed the Qutub Minar after Qutbuddin Aibak's death, ensuring that this monumental structure stood as a testament to the Delhi Sultanate's architectural achievements.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Jalaluddin Khilji was not the ruler who completed the Qutub Minar. He came to power much later, after the Khilji dynasty was established. The Qutub Minar was completed during the reign of Iltutmish, who was a successor to Qutbuddin Aibak.
Option B: Balban was a later ruler of the Slave Dynasty and did not complete the Qutub Minar. The construction was finished during the reign of Iltutmish, who was a predecessor to Balban.
Option C: Iltutmish, the second ruler of the Slave Dynasty, completed the Qutub Minar after Qutbuddin Aibak's death. He continued the construction and added more stories to the minaret, making it the iconic structure it is today.
Option D: Timur, also known as Tamerlane, was a conqueror who invaded India much later and had no involvement in the construction of the Qutub Minar. The minaret was completed long before his time.

Mnemonic: Remember "I" for Iltutmish, who completed the "I"nitial structure.

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