A visit to the capital city of India is incomplete without stepping into the Qutub Minar. The world-famous landmark boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. Qutub Minar in Delhi is among the most visited tourist destinations for many reasons, including its symbolism of culture, its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its intricate architecture, to name a few. However, many people are unaware of the interesting facts about Qutub Minar makes this place iconic and magnificent. If you are one of them, scroll down below to know.
9 Interesting Facts About Qutub Minar
Discover intriguing facts about Qutub Minar before visiting. Once you know its historical and cultural significance, visiting the monument brings a heightened experience. So, check these out below.
1. A Reason Behind The Erection
One of the exciting facts about Qutub Minar is that Qutub-ud-din Aibak started the erection of it to commemorate Muslims’ success and dominance. This highlights Aibak’s triumph over the last Hindu ruler, Prithvi Raj Chauhan. Hence, Qutub Minar remains a mark of Islamic rule and represents India’s glorious history. As history buffs, literature lovers, and architectural enthusiasts, you can have a splendid time marvelling at the Islamic architecture and going back to the past.
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2. The Tallest Brick Minaret In the World
Did you know that Qutub Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret? Featuring 72.5 metres in height, 379 stairs, five storeys, and a 14.32-metre diameter, Qutub Minar leaves all visitors in awe. Sightseeing the UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you back to history. Whether you are a historian or an outdoor enthusiast, visiting Qutub Minar adds a new layer of excitement and fun to the trip. If you are out with your partner or family, add Qutub Minar to the itinerary. All in all, Qutub Minar, being the tallest brick minaret in the world, is among the interesting facts about Qutub Minar, you must know.
3. Surrounded By Historical Monuments
Qutub Minar does not stand alone. When visiting it, you can explore the nearby historical monuments. Qutub Minar Complex is the area where other monuments including Qutub Minar are housed at short distances. This remains one of the amazing facts about Qutub Minar. Some of these monuments include illarm Alai Minar, Alai Darwaza, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, and the tomb of Iltutmish to name a few. So, step into Qutub Minar Complex and transport yourself to the real of India’s ancient history.
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4. A Major Stampede Of December 4, 1981
Before 1974, visitors were allowed to access the top of Qutub Minar. However, around 45 people were killed in a stampede on December 4, 1981. It is one of the interesting facts about Qutub Minar. Furthermore, an electricity failure led to the tower’s staircase into darkness. Thus, people were denied entry inside the monument.
5. Tower of Timelessness
One of the interesting facts about Qutub Minar is that it has been standing for over 2000 years without rusting. It is a timeless architectural marvel that has a majestic stature, thereby leaving a lasting impression on all visitors. If you wish to delve deeper into India’s rich history or marvel at the classic architecture, visiting Qutub Minar is the ideal place to be.
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6. Shooting Of The Song ‘Dil Ka Bhanwar’ Falls Through
The famous Bollywood actor and director of all times, Dev Anand, wanted to shoot the song ‘Dil Ka Bhanwar Kare Pukar’ inside Qutub Minar. However, the cameras were unable to fit inside the narrow passage due to their big sizes. So, a song was recorded and shot inside the replica of Qutub Minar, among the interesting facts about Qutub Minar. As Bollywood fans, historians, and movie buffs, you must step into the place for a fantastic time.
7. Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid: The First Mosque In India
It is believed that the first-ever mosque was built near Qutub Minar in India. Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid or ‘The Might of Islam Mosque’ bears witness to the dawn of Islamic rule in India. It dates back to the 12th century and is a seamless blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. Thus, it represents the synthesis of two cultures of the era.
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8. The Incomplete Tower- Alai’i Minar Still Standing
Not many people know that there was the construction of another minaret after Qutub Minar in the 14th century. Alauddin Khiliji wanted to establish a structure even taller and more beautiful than Qutub Minar which left people in awe. However, after the death of Khiliji, no one agreed to continue this project as they thought it to be over-ambitious. This structure is called Ala’i Minar and still stands to the north of the Qutub Minas and the mosque.
9. The Name ‘Qutub Minar’- A Matter Of Conflict
Over all these years, there has been a constant controversy over the very name ‘Qutub Minar’. Some attribute it to the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and the founder Qutub-ud-din Aibak. On the contrary, some suggest that the monument was constructed in honour of the revered Sufi saint named Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. Although there is this conflict where religion and culture intersect, Qutub Minar stands tall and symbolises victory. Even after so many centuries, this monument stands gloriously and echoes the tales of India’s rich past.
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Best Time To Visit Qutub Minar
Travel through history at Qutub Minar with loved ones or solo and soak yourself in its timeless allure. Depending on your interests and preferred time, you can visit the Qutub Minar to have a memorable experience. Regardless of the season, your time at Qutub Minar promises wonder and fun. If you wish to see the rays of the sun falling on Qutub Minar, it is advisable to visit it early morning. On the contrary, you can bask in the golden hues of sunset when the minaret stands a bit dark against the sky. As Qutub Minar is a year-round landmark, you can plant the visit at your convenience.
How To Reach Qutub Minar?
If you are confused about how to reach the iconic place, no worries. A versatility of transport options is available to help you easily reach Qutub Minar. You can prefer a cab/taxi or Delhi metro. Qutub Minar has its metro station on the Yellow Line. You can look for the metro guide in the station or feel free to ask locals.
Furthermore, you can opt for auto rikshaws and e-rikshaws, whichever mode is convenient for you. Despite the mode of transport, the journey to the Qutub Minar is an experience in itself. So, choose a suitable mode of transport for a memorable adventure.
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Does reading about the interesting facts about Qutub Minar excite you? So, on your next trip to Delhi, do not forget to add this place to your itinerary. With your partner, family, friends, or solo you can have an exhilarating experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Interesting Facts About Qutub Minar
What makes the Qutub Minar unique?
Qutub Minar is built of red and buff sandstone and is timeless. It is the tallest masonry tower in India, measuring around 73 metres high.
What is the interesting fact about Qutub Minar?
Qutub Minar is around 73 metres tall, making it the tallest minaret in the world built of bricks. It has a spiral staircase of 379 steps and has a base diameter of 14.3 metres.
Who started the construction of Qutub Minar?
Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the slave dynasty in India, started the construction of Qutub Minar. However, he was only able to complete the basement, Later, Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughluq made further additions.
What does Qutub Minar symbolise?
Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolises victory. The famous monument reached around 73m in height.
How much time it took to build Qutub Minar?
The construction of Qutub Minar was finished in around 75 years.
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