The Tomb of Iltutmish, built in 1235 A.D., stands as a significant historical monument in the Qutub Complex of New Delhi. Located just outside the northwest corner of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque near the iconic Qutub Minar, this structure holds the distinction of being the first surviving tomb of a Muslim ruler in India. Constructed by Shamsuddin Iltutmish himself, the tomb exemplifies early Indo-Islamic architecture. Its historical and architectural importance was recognized globally when it received UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1993. Interestingly, despite being called the Tomb of Iltutmish, it's believed that Iltutmish is not actually buried there. This curious fact adds an air of mystery to the monument and raises questions about its intended purpose and historical use. The tomb's design is notably simple yet elegant. It takes the form of a square, measuring 9.1 metres on each side and rising to a height of 8.41 metres at the base of the dome. One of its most striking features is the upper chamber, which opens to the sky and houses a richly decorated marble cenotaph. Despite its overall simplicity, the tomb's entrance is a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship. It showcases elaborate carvings featuring geometrical and arabesque patterns, making it a beautiful representation of India's rich architectural heritage. The interior walls are adorned with detailed inscriptions in various scripts, including Kufic, Tughra, and Nakshi. These inscriptions primarily illustrate chapters from the Quran, adding religious significance to the monument's historical value. This remarkable structure not only serves as a monument to a significant ruler but also stands as a testament to the evolving architectural styles of medieval India, bridging Islamic and Indian building traditions.
