In our previous columns we have covered many places but the list is too long. Today we will talk about Qutub Minar which is made of red sandstone and marble is the tallest minar ( 73 metres ) in India originally an 
ancient Islamic Monument, inscribed with Arabic inscriptions, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History of Qutub Minar :
Construction of Qutub Minar was started in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and was carried on by his successor, IItutmish. In 1368, Firoz Shah Tughlak constructed the fifth and the last storey. The stairs of the tower has 379 steps, is 72.5 metres (237.8 ft) high, and has a base diameter of 14.3 metres, which narrows to 2.7 metres at the top. It is surrounded by several other ancient and medieval structures and ruins, collectively known as the Qutub complex.
The Minar was used as a watch tower. The earliest extant mosque was built by the Delhi Sultans. Some historians believe that the minar was named after the Turkish sultan (whose descendant- Wajid Ali Shah-repaired it), Qutb-ud-din Aibak, but others contend that it was named in honour of Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a saint from Transoxiana who came to live in India and was venerated by Iltutmish.
Before 1981, the general public could climb to the top up the seven-storey, narrow staircase. However, on 4 December 1981 an accident occurred when an electricity cut plunged the tower’s staircase into darkness. Around 45 people were killed in the stampede that followed the electricity failure. Most of the victims were children because, before 1981, school children were allowed free access to historical monuments on Fridays, and many school groups were taking advantage of this. Subsequently, public access has been forbidden.
What makes this place special:
Qutub Minar is special in every manner. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist places not only in Delhi but in India. This place is famous between people of all ages whether they are school children or families or photographers.
Days and Timings : Qutub Minar opens 7 days a week and from Sunrise to Sunset.
Location : Mehrauli.
How to Reach Qutub Minar : If you are coming by metro then the nearest metro station is Qutab Minar
Entry Fee : Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 250 for our foreigner’s guests.
Lensman :: Hitesh Chawla & Jagdish Singh.
Content by Hitesh Chawla.
