Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque is one of the earliest mosques in North India, built during the early period of Islamic rule in India. It is located in the Qutub Minar Complex, Delhi, and represents the fusion of Hindu and Islamic architecture.
Basic Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque (Might of Islam Mosque) |
| Location | Qutub Minar Complex, Mehrauli, Delhi |
| Built by | Qutb-ud-din Aibak |
| Construction Started | 1192 CE |
| Dynasty | Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty |
| Purpose | First mosque built in North India |
| Expanded by | Iltutmish (1210-1236 CE) and Alauddin Khalji (1296-1316 CE) |
Historical Background
- Built after the Second Battle of Tarain (1192 CE) when Qutb-ud-din Aibak defeated Prithviraj Chauhan.
- Constructed using materials from 27 demolished Hindu and Jain temples.
- Expanded by Iltutmish, who added three more arches and an extension.
- Alauddin Khalji later made additions, including Alai Darwaza.
Architectural Features
1. Indo-Islamic Style
- One of the earliest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Hindu and Jain elements were reused, making it a fusion of styles.
2. Arched Screen
- The first use of true Islamic arches in India.
- The central arch is particularly significant in early Islamic architecture.
3. Qutub Minar (Part of the Complex)
- The mosque is located near Qutub Minar, which was started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and completed by Iltutmish.
- The Qutub Minar was built as a victory tower and to call for prayers (Adhan).
4. Mehrab & Mimbar
- The Mehrab (prayer niche) indicates the direction of Mecca.
- The Mimbar (pulpit) is used for sermons during Friday prayers.
5. Iron Pillar
- A 4th-century iron pillar from the Gupta period, associated with Chandragupta II, stands in the mosque’s courtyard.
- It is famous for its rust-resistant quality.
Significance
- First mosque in North India, marking the beginning of Muslim rule.
- Represents the transition from Hindu temple architecture to Islamic mosque architecture.
- Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Qutub Complex.
- Symbolizes political and religious dominance of early Turkish rulers in India.
Expansion & Modifications
- Iltutmish (1210-1236 CE): Expanded the mosque by adding three arches and a prayer hall.
- Alauddin Khalji (1296-1316 CE): Built the Alai Darwaza and attempted to construct a second minaret (Alai Minar, unfinished).
Key Facts for Quick Revision
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| First mosque in North India | Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque |
| Built by | Qutb-ud-din Aibak |
| Construction Year | 1192 CE |
| Location | Qutub Minar Complex, Delhi |
| Materials Used | Remains of 27 Hindu & Jain temples |
| Architectural Style | Indo-Islamic |
| Major Additions | Iltutmish (arches), Alauddin Khalji (Alai Darwaza) |
| Famous Nearby Structures | Qutub Minar, Iron Pillar |
MCQs on Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
1. Who built the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque?
A) Iltutmish
B) Qutb-ud-din Aibak
C) Alauddin Khalji
D) Balban
Answer: B) Qutb-ud-din Aibak
2. In which year was the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque constructed?
A) 1175 CE
B) 1192 CE
C) 1206 CE
D) 1296 CE
Answer: B) 1192 CE
3. Where is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque located?
A) Agra
B) Fatehpur Sikri
C) Qutub Minar Complex, Delhi
D) Ajmer
Answer: C) Qutub Minar Complex, Delhi
4. How many Hindu and Jain temples were demolished to build the mosque?
A) 10
B) 15
C) 27
D) 50
Answer: C) 27
5. Who added the Alai Darwaza to the mosque complex?
A) Qutb-ud-din Aibak
B) Iltutmish
C) Alauddin Khalji
D) Balban
Answer: C) Alauddin Khalji
6. What is the architectural style of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque?
A) Dravidian
B) Indo-Islamic
C) Nagara
D) Persian
Answer: B) Indo-Islamic
Subjective Questions on Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
Short Answer Questions (2-5 Marks)
- Who built the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and when?
- Where is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque located?
- Name two rulers who expanded the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque after its construction.
- What is the significance of the Iron Pillar in the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque?
- What is the Alai Darwaza, and who built it?
Long Answer Questions (8-15 Marks)
- Discuss the architectural features of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.
- Explain the historical significance of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.
- How does the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque represent the transition from Hindu to Islamic architecture?
- Compare the contributions of Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Iltutmish, and Alauddin Khalji in the development of the mosque.
- What role did the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque play in the Delhi Sultanate’s political and religious history?
These notes and questions are important for UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, CDS, NDA, and other competitive exams covering Medieval Indian History and Architecture.