'Visiting Qutb Minar (12th-14th century A.D.), India, after fifty years' - by K J S Chatrath

I visited the Qutab Complex in New Delhi four years back. The earlier visit was a good 50 years ago. I took Delhi's world class Metro which helpfully terminated at the Qutab Minar Station. A short auto ride and I was there.

 

The immediate reaction was positive. The Complex seemed well kept and neat and clean. Of course one was disappointed to see long queues of people wanting to buy entrance tickets at Rs. Ten each. This is one area which can surely be streamlined. Installation of a ticket vending machines would 

 help.

 

 The foundations of this world famous tower known as the Qutb-Minar, were laid by Qutubuddin Aibak of the Mamluk Dynasty towards the end of the 12^th century. 

Construction was interrupted at the first storey by his death and the remaining three stories were completed in matching material and style by his successor Iltutmish, commonly known as Altamash in 1230 A.D.

In 1368 A.D. the Minar was damaged by lightning. Later Firuz Khan Tughluq (A.D. 1351-88) replaced the top storey by the existing two stories faced with marble. Sikandar Lodi (1489- 1517) also executed some repairs to the Minar in 1503 A.D. when it was again struck by lightning.

 This was the topmost portion of the Minar, before it came tumbling down.

The Tower has a diameter of 14.32m at the base and of about 2.75m at the top with a height of about 72.5m and ascended by 379 steps it is the highest stone tower in India and a perfect example of Minar known to exist anywhere,

 The variegated plan of its three lower storeys, the projecting balconies with stalactites pendentive brackets and ornate bands of inscriptions on its facades heightens the decorative effect.  (Text sourced from the Archeological Survey of India Board at the site)

 And then to the Ashoka Pilllar.

                                           

 And then quite suddenly, I spotted a plane.

 And then another plane.

It appeared to be the normal route for the flights. It was very fascinating to watch. But I had to leave.