Delhi Sultanate: Art and Architecture is part of Medieval History of India. Below are notes on 8 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Construction Materials and Techniques: Stone, brick, mortar, rubble masonry

  • Delhi Sultanate architecture introduced significant advancements in construction materials and techniques.
  • A key innovation was the widespread use of improved mortar.
  • Surkhi (finely ground burnt brick powder) was introduced and mixed with lime mortar.
  • The addition of Surkhi enhanced the binding strength, hydraulic properties (setting underwater), and overall durability of the mortar.
  • This strong lime-surkhi mortar allowed for more robust and larger-scale construction, particularly with rubble masonry.
  • Common construction materials included local stone (e.g., red sandstone, grey quartzite), bricks, and extensive use of rubble masonry.
  • Hadis: Islamic Law, comprising the sayings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad.
  • Gadhaiya: A type of coin during the Sultanate period.
  • Mir Bakshi: Head of the military department, an office prominent under the Mughals; during the Sultanate, the equivalent was Arizi-Mumalik.
  • Gaz-i-Sikandari: A unit of land measurement (32 digits or approximately 30-32 inches) introduced by Sultan Sikandar Lodi.
  • Lata / Latai: A land revenue system involving crop sharing or measurement of standing crops, with transactions typically in crops.
  • Uddrang: A type of tax on agricultural produce (term from ancient/early medieval context).
  • Kundi: A bill of exchange or financial instrument, similar to Hundi.
  • Diwan: A treasurer or head of a department (e.g., Diwan-i-Wizarat for finance).
  • Azad Dasta: Guerrilla bands.

Emergence of Indo-Islamic Architectural Style

  • Emergence of Indo-Islamic Architectural Style: Synthesis of Islamic (arches, domes, minarets, geometric/calligraphic designs) and indigenous Indian (corbelled arches, lintels, brackets, ornamental motifs like lotus/bells) styles.
  • Key features: Use of mortar, true arch (keystone), dome. Initially, spoliation/reuse of Hindu/Jain temple materials; later, specific quarries (e.g., red sandstone).
  • Mamluk/Slave Dynasty (1206-1290):
    • Qutb al-Din Aibak: Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque (Delhi, first mosque in India), Adhai Din ka Jhopra (Ajmer) (converted Sanskrit college), began Qutub Minar.
    • Iltutmish: Completed Qutub Minar (tallest brick minaret, Delhi). Tomb of Iltutmish (Delhi) – earliest tomb built in India with a true arch and dome (dome collapsed), used corbelled squinches.
  • Khalji Dynasty (1290-1320):
    • Alauddin Khalji: Alai Darwaza (Delhi) – first building made entirely of true arches and domes, features a distinctive ‘lotus bud’ fringe on the underside of the arch.
  • Tughlaq Dynasty (1320-1414):
    • Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq: Tughlaqabad Fort (Delhi) – characterized by massive, inclined walls (batter).
    • Architectural style: Simplicity, strength, and severity. Emergence of octagonal tomb designs (gained prominence through Sayyid/Lodi periods).
  • Sayyid & Lodi Dynasties (1414-1526):
    • Lodi Garden (Delhi): Contains various tombs, notably octagonal (Sayyid) and square (Lodi) types. Introduction of double dome technology.
  • Regional Sultanate Styles:
    • Bengal Sultanate: Adina Mosque (Malda, West Bengal) – built by Sikandar Shah.
    • Sharqi Kingdom (Jaunpur): Distinctive for massive entrance gates (propylons) and elaborate screen work.
  • Contemporary/Hindu/Jain Architecture (during Sultanate era):
    • Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Khajuraho): A prominent Shiva temple, built by Chandella kings (10-11th C).
    • Ranakpur Temple (Rajasthan, 15th C): Jain temple. Constructed by Dharmak (Dharan Shah). Main architect: Depak (Deepa). Main idol: Jain Tirthankara Adinath.
    • Osian Jain Temples: Located in Jodhpur district, Rajasthan.
    • Vijayanagara Architecture: Known for its elaborate carvings and composite pillars often featuring bracket capitals known as Bodegoi.
    • Distinctive feature of Hindu architecture (during Sultanate period): Continued use of lofty towers (shikhara), contrasting with the new Islamic dome architecture.
  • Chronological Order (Delhi Sultanate & related): Qutub Minar (13th C) → Tughlaqabad Fort (early 14th C) → Lodi Garden (15thearly 16th C) → Fatehpur Sikri (late 16th C, Mughal).

Key Architectural Elements: Arch, Dome, Minaret, Squinch

  • Arch: Delhi Sultanate architecture introduced the true arch to India, replacing the indigenous corbelling method.
  • True Arch: The first extant true arch in Sultanate architecture is found in the Tomb of Sultan Balban (c. 1287 AD).
  • Horse-Shoe Arch: The distinctive horse-shoe arch was first introduced in the Alai Darwaza (early 14th century, built by Alauddin Khalji).
  • Dome: Early true domes became a defining feature. The Alai Darwaza houses one of the earliest true domes in India. Tughlaq period domes often featured a pointed or stilted profile (e.g., Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq).
  • Minaret: Tall, slender towers typically tapering towards the top. The Qutub Minar, started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and completed by Iltutmish, is the most iconic example.
  • Squinch: An architectural device used to bridge the corner of a square space to form an octagonal or circular base, upon which a dome can be set. Early squinches are found in structures like the Tomb of Sultan Balban and Alai Darwaza.

Khilji Dynasty Architecture: Alai Darwaza, Siri Fort, Jama'at Khana Mosque

  • Alai Darwaza: Built by Alauddin Khilji in 1311 AD.
  • It serves as the southern gateway to the Qutb Minar complex in Delhi.
  • It is historically significant as the first building in India to employ true arches and a true dome, achieved using pendentive squinches.
  • Constructed primarily of red sandstone with white marble inlay for decorative elements.
  • Known for its elegant proportions, intricate latticework, and calligraphic inscriptions.
  • Siri Fort: Built by Alauddin Khilji around 1303 AD.
  • It was constructed as the second city of Delhi to defend against Mongol invasions.
  • Included the "Qasr-i Hazar Sutun" (Palace of a Thousand Pillars) and a large water reservoir, Hauz-i-Alai (Hauz Khas).
  • Jama'at Khana Mosque: Located within the Dargah of Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi.
  • Construction possibly initiated by Khizr Khan (son of Alauddin Khilji), and completed by Muhammad Shah Tughlaq.
  • It is one of the earliest mosques in India built entirely according to Islamic architectural principles, without the reuse of materials from other structures.
  • Made of red sandstone and features three bays, each topped by a dome, with the central dome being the largest.

Lodi Dynasty Architecture: Square and Octagonal tombs, Double Dome technique, Lodi Gardens Tombs

  • Lodi Dynasty Architecture (1451-1526 AD): Marks a transition from Tughlaq to Mughal styles, primarily focusing on tombs and mosques.
  • Tomb Types: Two distinct forms emerged:
    • Square Tombs: Larger structures, typically built on a raised plinth. Examples include Bara Gumbad and Shish Gumbad (Lodi Gardens).
    • Octagonal Tombs: Reserved for rulers and high-ranking nobles, characterized by a central octagonal chamber with a surrounding verandah featuring three arches on each side. This style continued the evolution from the Tughlaq period.
  • Tomb of Sikandar Lodi (1517 AD): A prominent example of an octagonal tomb, located in Lodi Gardens.
  • Double Dome Technique: A significant architectural innovation introduced during the Lodi period.
    • Structure: Consists of an inner and an outer dome with a hollow space between them.
    • Purpose: Provided a taller, more imposing external elevation while maintaining a lower, proportionate interior ceiling, also offering structural stability and insulation.
    • First True Double Dome: Generally attributed to the Tomb of Sikandar Lodi (1517 AD).
  • Lodi Gardens: Contains several important Lodi and late Sayyid period tombs, showcasing both square (e.g., Bara Gumbad, Shish Gumbad) and octagonal (e.g., Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, Tomb of Muhammad Shah Sayyid) architectural styles.

Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty Architecture: Qutb Minar Complex, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iltutmish's Tomb

  • Qutb Minar: Construction initiated by Qutbud-din Aibak (1192 AD); completed by Iltutmish (1220 AD).
  • Qutb Minar: Dedicated to Sufi saint Qutb-uddin Bakhtiyar Kaki.
  • Qutb Minar: Five-storeyed tapering tower, approx. 73 meters (240 feet) high.
  • Qutb Minar: Originally four-storied; Firoz Shah Tughlaq added the fifth storey and repaired top two after lightning damage (1369).
  • Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: Built by Qutb-uddin Aibak in Delhi (1193 AD); first mosque by Delhi Sultans.
  • Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: Constructed by demolishing 27 Hindu and Jain temples, reusing their materials (spolia).
  • Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: Expanded by Iltutmish.
  • Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra: Mosque built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in Ajmer, Rajasthan, using materials from demolished temples.
  • Iltutmish's Tomb: Built by Iltutmish himself (c. 1235 AD) within the Qutb Minar complex.
  • Iltutmish's Tomb: Noted for rich ornamentation and intricate carvings; lacked a complete dome.
  • Sultan Garhi: First monumental tomb in India, built by Iltutmish (1231 AD) for his son Nasiruddin Mahmud.
  • Balban's Architecture: Built Qasr-i Lal (Red Palace); his tomb (near Qutb Minar complex) features the first true arch in India.

Patronage and Artisanal Practices during the Sultanate period

  • Sultanate period architecture involved a blend of indigenous Indian craftsmanship and Islamic (Persian, Central Asian) styles.
  • Local artisans, stonemasons, and engineers were extensively employed in Sultanate architectural projects.
  • The Sun Temple at Gaya contains an inscription where the name of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq appears twice, indicating its presence or patronage during his reign.
  • Mandan was a prominent architect and scholar patronized by Rana Kumbha of Mewar (15th century CE).
  • Mandan's significant architectural and sculptural treatises include:
    • Rajavallabha (Rajvallah): Focuses on architectural principles.
    • Devatamurti-Prakaranam (Devmurti Prakarana): Deals with the iconography and sculpture of deities.
    • Vastusara (Vastusar): Covers architecture and town planning.

Tughlaq Dynasty Architecture: Tughlaqabad Fort, Firoz Shah Kotla, Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq (distinctive features like sloping walls)

walls)

  • Tughlaq Architecture General Features: Marked by strength, massiveness, and auster‐

9. Delhi Sultanate: Literature

Practice MCQs: Delhi Sultanate: Art and Architecture

Construction Materials and Techniques: Stone, brick, mortar, rubble masonry

  1. In Indian architecture, 'Surkhi' was introduced by

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2014

    1. Kushans
    2. Guptas
    3. Sultanate Sultans
    4. Mughals
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Sultanate Sultans

    The introduction and widespread use of 'Surkhi' in mortar marked a significant technical advancement in Indian architecture, primarily associated with the Sultanate period.

Emergence of Indo-Islamic Architectural Style

  1. The famous mosques and the place are mentioned below. Which pairs are correct? 1. Adhai Din ka Jhopra – Ajmer 2. Moonu Pettumma Palli mosque – Pappinisseri, Kannur 3. Bheer mosque – Ludhiana 4. Adina mosque – Malda, West Bengal

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2023

    1. 1, 2 and 3
    2. 2, 3 and 4
    3. 1, 3 and 4
    4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

    All the listed pairs of mosques and their locations are correct.

  2. Match the following : Architectural Style Associated Dynasty

    Asked in: RPSC RAS Prelims 2013

    1. ‘Lotus bud’ fringe on the i. Sharqi underside of the arch ii. Vijay-
    2. Emergence of octagonal tomb nagar
    3. Use of Bodegoi in the pillar iii. Khaljis
    4. Massive entrance gate with iv. Tughluqs inclined walls Codes : A B C D (1) iii i iv ii (2) ii i iv iii (3) i ii iv i (4) iii iv ii i A. (1) iii i iv ii B. (2) ii i iv iii C. (3) i ii iv i D. (4) iii iv ii i
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Massive entrance gate with iv. Tughluqs inclined walls Codes : A B C D (1) iii i iv ii (2) ii i iv iii (3) i ii iv i (4) iii iv ii i A. (1) iii i iv ii B. (2) ii i iv iii C. (3) i ii iv i D. (4) iii iv ii i

    - A. 'Lotus bud' fringe on the underside of the arch is a characteristic decorative element of Khalji architecture (iii), seen prominently in structures like the Alai Darwaza. - B. The emergence and popularity of octagonal tombs are features associated with the Tughluq dynasty (iv), distinct from the earlier square or circular tombs. Examples include the tombs of Ghiyasuddin Tughluq and Firoz Shah Tughluq. - C. The use of 'Bodegoi' (bracket capitals or corbels) in pillars is a distinctive feature of Vijayanagara architecture (ii), used to support the beams of mandapas. - D. While massive entrance gates with inclined walls (batter) are primarily associated with Tughluq architecture, the Sharqi dynasty (i) of Jaunpur also built massive and imposing gateways, although inclined walls were more characteristic of Tughluqs for structural strength. Given the other pairings are standard, this pairing (D-i) is implied by the options despite the strong association of inclined walls with Tughluqs.

  3. Which one of the following is the correct description of Kandaria Mahadeo?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2020

    1. A Shiva temple at Elephanta
    2. The title of a work by Bhatti
    3. The capital of Chandella kings
    4. A temple at Khajuraho
    Show answer

    Answer: D. A temple at Khajuraho

    The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its temples famous for their Nagara style architecture and erotic sculptures. The Kandariya Mahadeo temple is the most prominent structure within this complex.

  4. Consider the following: I. Tughlaquabad Fort. II. Lodi Garden. III. Qutub Minar. IV. Fatehpur Sikri. The correct chronological order in which they were built is:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1998

    1. III, I, IV, II
    2. III, I, II, IV
    3. I, III, II, IV
    4. I, III, IV, II
    Show answer

    Answer: B. III, I, II, IV

    Let's determine the approximate construction periods: - III. Qutub Minar: Construction began under Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1192 and was completed by Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughlaq over several decades in the 13th and 14th centuries. Its origin is late 12th century. - I. Tughlaquabad Fort: Built by Ghiyath al-Din Tughluq, founder of the Tughlaq dynasty, starting around 1321 CE. - II. Lodi Garden: While the garden itself was landscaped later, it contains tombs and structures from the Sayyid and Lodi dynasties, primarily built in the 15th century (e.g., Tomb of Mohammed Shah, Tomb of Sikandar Lodi). - IV. Fatehpur Sikri: Built by Mughal Emperor Akbar starting in the 1570s and serving as his capital for a short period. The chronological order is thus: Qutub Minar (late 12th C), Tughlaquabad Fort (early 14th C), Lodi Garden structures (15th C), Fatehpur Sikri (late 16th C). This corresponds to III, I, II, IV.

  5. Which of the following statements regarding the Ranakpur Temple is correct? (A) It was constructed by Dharmak or Dharan Shah. (B) The main architect of this temple was Depak or Deepa. (C) The main idol of this temple is of Jain Tirthankara Adinath.

    Asked in: PTI and Librarian (Sanskrit College Edu.) 2024

    1. Only (A) and (B)
    2. Only (A), (B), (C) all
    3. Only (A) and (C)
    4. Only (B) and (C)
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Only (A), (B), (C) all

    The Ranakpur Temple is a highly revered Jain temple located in the Ranakpur village of Rajasthan. It is renowned for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings, dedicated to Adinath. The patronage of a wealthy merchant and the skill of the architect were crucial in its construction.

  6. In which district Osian Jain Temples are situated ?

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Sanskrit Edu.) Exam 2018 3 2018

    1. Jaipur
    2. Jaisalmer
    3. Barmer
    4. Jodhpur
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Jodhpur

    Osian is a significant historical and religious site in Rajasthan, showcasing exquisite temple architecture.

  7. What was the distinctive feature of the Hindu architecture during the Sultanate period?

    Asked in: CDO GS 2401 2024

    1. The volt
    2. Ornamental design
    3. Lofty towers
    4. The dome
    Show answer

    Answer: D. The dome

    The Sultanate period (1206-1526) in India witnessed the introduction and evolution of various architectural elements from Islamic traditions. The dome, along with arches and minarets, became integral to mosque and tomb construction.

Key Architectural Elements: Arch, Dome, Minaret, Squinch

  1. The first true arch in the Sultanate memorial could be seen in

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Iltutmish's Tomb
    2. Tomb of Balban
    3. Alai Darwaza
    4. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Tomb of Balban

    The Tomb of Balban (built c. 1287-1288 AD in Mehrauli, Delhi) is historically significant for being the earliest known building in India where the true arch (based on voussoirs) was successfully used for structural purposes. Earlier Sultanate buildings like the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and Iltutmish's Tomb primarily relied on corbelling for arch-like openings, or their attempts at true arches failed (as seen in Iltutmish's Tomb).

  2. The Horse-Shoe arch was first introduced in the

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Tomb of Iltutmish
    2. Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq
    3. Alai Darwazah
    4. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Alai Darwazah

    The Alai Darwaza, built by Alauddin Khilji as the southern gateway of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque in Delhi, is considered the first building in India where the horse-shoe arch was introduced and extensively used in its construction. It marks a significant development in Indo-Islamic architecture.

  3. In which one of the following buildings the first extant true arch is found ?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2017

    1. Arhai din ka Jhonpra
    2. Quwwat ul Islam Mosque
    3. Tomb of Sultan Balban
    4. Alai Darwaza
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Tomb of Sultan Balban

    True arches, unlike corbelled arches, distribute weight sideways to the piers or abutments, allowing for wider spans and greater structural stability. Their introduction marked a significant architectural development.

Khilji Dynasty Architecture: Alai Darwaza, Siri Fort, Jama'at Khana Mosque

  1. Who among the following built the Alai Darwaza?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Alauddin Khilji
    2. Akbar
    3. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
    4. Jahangir
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alauddin Khilji

    Alauddin Khilji, a sultan of the Khilji dynasty who ruled the Delhi Sultanate, commissioned the construction of the Alai Darwaza in 1311 AD. It serves as the southern gateway to the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque within the Qutb Complex in Mehrauli, Delhi.

  2. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists: List-I List-II (Monuments) (Builders) 1. Alauddin

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2006

    1. Alai Darwaja, Delhi Khalji
    2. Buland Darwaja Fatehpur 2. Akbar Sikri
    3. Moti Masjid, Agra 3. Shahjahan
    4. Moti Masjid, Delhi 4. Aurangzeb A. A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1 B. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3 C. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4 D. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Moti Masjid, Agra 3. Shahjahan

    - Alai Darwaja (Delhi) was built by Alauddin Khalji as the southern gateway of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. - Buland Darwaja (Fatehpur Sikri) was built by Akbar to commemorate his victory in Gujarat. - Moti Masjid (Agra Fort) was built by Shahjahan. - Moti Masjid (Red Fort, Delhi) was built by Aurangzeb.

  3. The "Alai Darwaza" was constructed by

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2022

    1. Alauddin Khilji
    2. Mugammad Bin Tughlaq
    3. Sikander Lodi
    4. Ibrahim Lodi
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alauddin Khilji

    The Alai Darwaza is considered a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture from the Sultanate period, notable for its dome, pointed arches, and intricate marble and red sandstone decoration.

Lodi Dynasty Architecture: Square and Octagonal tombs, Double Dome technique, Lodi Gardens Tombs

  1. Match the following monuments with their concerned ruler and select the correct code given below : A B

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2012

    1. Double dome i. Sher Shah
    2. Octagonal tomb ii. Muhammad Adil Shah
    3. True arch tomb iii. Balban
    4. Gol Gumbad iv. Sikandar Lodi Codes : A. iv, iii, i, ii B. iv, i, iii, ii C. i, iii, iv, ii D. ii, iii, i, iv
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Octagonal tomb ii. Muhammad Adil Shah

Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty Architecture: Qutb Minar Complex, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iltutmish's Tomb

  1. The Qutub Minar was completed by

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 67th Cancelled

    1. Iltutmish
    2. Qutb-ud-din Aibak.
    3. Ulugh Khan
    4. Raziya Sultana
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Iltutmish

    While started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the Qutub Minar was largely completed by Iltutmish.

  2. Consider the following statements about Minars (Tower) of middle India. (1) The Qutub Minar, built in the Thirteenth century, is a 180-feet-high tapering tower divided into five storeys. (2) Chand Minar, built in the fifteenth century, is a 210-feet-high tapering tower divided into four storeys. Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct ?

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2023

    1. (1) only
    2. (2) only
    3. Both (1) and (2)
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: B. (2) only

    Statement (1) is incorrect because the Qutub Minar, while built in the 13th century and divided into five storeys, is approximately 73 meters (about 238 feet) high, not 180 feet. Statement (2) about Chand Minar in Daulatabad being built in the fifteenth century (by Ala-ud-din Bahmani or Ala-ud-din Khalji), having four storeys and being around 210 feet high, is correct.

  3. Given below are two statements: Statement I : Aurangzeb had constructed the Kuwait-ul-Islam mosque by demolishing the Chintamani Temple. Statement II : Qutbuddin Aibak got the Kuwait-ul-Islam mosque built in Delhi. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

    Asked in: HAS Prelims 2022

    1. Both Statements I and II are true.
    2. Both Statements I and II are false.
    3. Statement I is true but Statement II is false.
    4. Statement I is false but Statement II is true.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Statement I is false but Statement II is true.

    - Statement I is false: Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of the Chintamani Parshvanath Jain temple in Ahmedabad in 1645 and built a mosque there, naming it 'Quwwat-ul-Islam' (Strength of Islam). However, the famous Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in Delhi was built much earlier. The statement incorrectly links Aurangzeb and the Chintamani temple demolition to the Delhi mosque built by Aibak. - Statement II is true: Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, commenced the construction of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in Delhi in 1193 CE, using materials from demolished local temples. It is one of the earliest surviving mosques in India.

  4. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and Arhai Din Ka Jhonpra are situated respectively at :

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Delhi and Ajmer
    2. Delhi and Lahore
    3. Ajmer and Delhi
    4. Lahore and Ajmer
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Delhi and Ajmer

    - Both structures were built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. - They were constructed partly using materials from demolished Hindu and Jain temples.

  5. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer from the code given below the lists. List-I (Building) List-II (Builders)

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2022

    1. Sultan garhi 1. Alauddin Khilji
    2. Red Place 2. Qutbuddin Aibak
    3. Jamat Khana Masjid 3. Iltutmish
    4. Dhai Din ka Jhopra 4. Balban Code: A B C D (a) 3 4 1 2 (b) 3 4 2 1 (c) 4 3 1 2 (d) 4 3 2 1 A. (a) 3 4 1 2 B. (b) 3 4 2 1 C. (c) 4 3 1 2 D. (d) 4 3 2 1
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Sultan garhi 1. Alauddin Khilji

    - Sultan Ghari was the first monumental tomb built in India, constructed by Iltutmish (3) in 1231 AD for his eldest son, Prince Nasiruddin Mahmud. - Red Place (Lal Mahal) was built by Sultan Balban (4) in Delhi. - Jamat Khana Masjid, located within the Nizamuddin Dargah complex, is one of the earliest mosques in Delhi built entirely according to Islamic rites. While completed later, its core structure and central dome were initiated by Khizr Khan, son of Alauddin Khilji (1), during his reign. - Dhai Din ka Jhopra is a mosque in Ajmer, built by Qutbuddin Aibak (2) by converting a Sanskrit college and incorporating elements from demolished Hindu and Jain temples.

  6. Qutb Minar was originally four-storied. Who among the following Delhi Sultans raised the height to the structure by adding the fifth storey?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2021

    1. Balban
    2. Alauddin Khalji
    3. Muhammad Tughlaq
    4. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Firoz Shah Tughlaq

    Construction of the Qutb Minar was initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and largely completed by his successor, Iltutmish. The minar originally had four storeys. It was damaged by lightning in 1368. Firoz Shah Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi from the Tughlaq dynasty, undertook repairs to the damaged upper storeys and added a fifth storey, increasing the height of the structure. He replaced the damaged top (originally fourth) storey with two new smaller storeys made of marble and sandstone.

  7. Who completed the Qutab Minar?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Qutab-ud-Din Bakhtiyar Kaki
    2. Nasiruddin Qubacha
    3. Iltutmish
    4. Qutbuddin Aibak
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Iltutmish

    Qutbuddin Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, started the construction of the Qutab Minar in Delhi, but he only completed the first storey.

  8. Which one of the following was not constructed by Qutubuddin Aibak ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2009

    1. Kubbat-ul-Islam mosque
    2. Qutub Minar
    3. Adhai din Ka Jhopada
    4. Alai Darwaja
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Alai Darwaja

    Qutubuddin Aibak was the founder of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mamluk dynasty. He initiated the construction of several important buildings. The Kubbat-ul-Islam mosque (Quwwat-ul-Islam) in Delhi and the Adhai din Ka Jhopara mosque in Ajmer were among his constructions. He also started the construction of the Qutub Minar, though it was completed by his successor, Iltutmish. The Alai Darwaza is the southern gateway of the Quwwat-ul- Islam mosque complex. It was constructed much later by Alauddin Khalji, the second ruler of the Khalji dynasty, around 1311 AD.

  9. With reference to the Delhi Sultanate, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? (1) Qutub minar was dedicated to the Sufi saint, Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki. (2) The tower was damaged by lightening in 1369. Select the correct answer using the code given below - (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 (c) Both 1 & 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Asked in: Civil Judge 2022

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 & 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Both 1 & 2

    This question assesses knowledge of historical monuments and their associated figures and events during the Delhi Sultanate period.

Patronage and Artisanal Practices during the Sultanate period

  1. The Sun temple built at Gaya during the Sultanate period has an inscription containing the name of a Sultan twice. Who is this Sultan?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. Alauddin Khilji
    2. Qutbuddin Mubarak Khilji
    3. Muhammad Bin Tughlaq
    4. Firuz Shah Tughlaq
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Firuz Shah Tughlaq

    An inscription found on the Sun temple at Gaya, dating to the Sultanate period (specifically 1359 AD), mentions the name of Sultan Firuz Shah Tughlaq twice. The inscription records the construction of a 'serai' (inn) by a local official during Firuz Shah Tughlaq's reign. Firuz Shah Tughlaq was known for his interest in public works and administrative activities, and inscriptions from his reign are found in various parts of his empire.

  2. Which of the following books were written by Mandan ? - Rajvallah - Rupavatar - Devmurti Prakarana - Vastusar

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Sec. Edu.) Comp. Exam 2022

    1. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    2. (i), (iii) and (iv)
    3. (ii) and (iii)
    4. (iii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: B. (i), (iii) and (iv)

    (G.K. Group A)-2022 Mandan was a renowned architect and writer from the 15th century who contributed significantly to Vastu Shastra. His works include treatises on architecture, temple construction, and iconography.

Tughlaq Dynasty Architecture: Tughlaqabad Fort, Firoz Shah Kotla, Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq (distinctive features like sloping walls)

  1. Consider the following : Tughlaqabad Fort Bada Gumbad in Lodhi Garden Qutub Minar Fatehpur Sikri Which one of the following is the correct chronological order of building the above monuments?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2017

    1. 3, 1, 4, 2
    2. 3, 1, 2, 4
    3. 1, 3, 2, 4
    4. 1, 3, 4, 2
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 3, 1, 2, 4

    - Qutub Minar (3) Construction began around 1192 by Qutb al-Din Aibak and completed by Iltutmish (Delhi Sultanate, Slave Dynasty). This is the earliest monument among the given options. - Tughlaqabad Fort (1) Built by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq in the early 14th century (c. 1320) (Delhi Sultanate, Tughlaq Dynasty). - Bada Gumbad in Lodhi Garden (2) Built in 1494 during the reign of the Lodhi Dynasty (Delhi Sultanate). - Fatehpur Sikri (4) Built by Mughal emperor Akbar, construction started around 1569 and continued through the 1570s. This belongs to the Mughal period and is the latest among the given options.