Delhi Diaries: Vishnu Dhwaj (Qutub Minar)

A splendid Hindu architectural site of Vishnu Dhwaj

This is also popularly known as Qutub Minar.It was constructed by Anangpal Tomar 1st of Pratihar dynasty. The height of Vishnu Dhwaj is 72 m (236 feet). Vishnu Dhwaj is located at Mehrauli in New Delhi NRC. Connectivity to this complex is supported by Delhi metro.The nearest metro stations to this Complex are Qutub Minar metro station and Saket Metro Station. Both are roughly 1.8 km away from the complex. This place is well connected with City bus service as well.

Vishnu Dhwaj

This complex is located near first fortified city of Lalkot. LalKot was also constructed by Anangpal 1st in the 9th century. It is evident that the elements like columns & beams used for constructing different structures in Qutub complex were part of Hindu and Jain temples. One can easily identify the decorations and the motifs such as vase,flowers,temple bells, and many other traditional Hindu symbols on the pillars. One can also see intricate sculptures on pillars and columns. Hindu Gods and Goddesses and Jain daities can be identified even though they are completely defaced by the invaders. Pillar supporting yakshas are also seen near the ceiling.

The ceiling of one of the Hallways, depicting traditional patterns

The Ceiling is also decorated with intricate designs but these are covered with false ceiling of stone slabs not to reveal the true Hindu identity of the structure. Study report made by then ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) in the year 1871-72 underlines the fact that Qutub Minar complex is made at the site of former Hindu and Jain temples.

The same Complex houses another wonder- The Iron Pillar.

The Iron pillar

This pillar does not belong to this Complex but was brought to this complex by Firoz Shah. It is an ancient wonder as it contains 99% iron and yet has not rusted from centuries. Even with modern metal and meteorology Sciences modern scientists are still not able to understand how this Iron Pillar was forged and how it was made rust proof. This pillar was made in the Gupta Era i.e. in 4th century A.D. and was brought from Vidisha in modern day Madhya Pradesh.

Make sure to visit this monument when in Delhi and relive the history of the city.