Qutub Minar - The Dhruv Stambh (contd..........) --------------------------------------------------------------- Another important consideration is that the entrance to the tower faces north and not the west as is enjoined by Islamic theology and practice.The Hindu title of the tower was Vishnu Dhwaj (i.e. Vishnus standard) alias Vishnu Stambh alias Dhruv Stambh (i.e., a polar pillar) obviously connoting an astronomical observation tower. The Sanskrit inscription in Brahmi script on the non-rusting iron pillar close by proclaims that the lofty standard of Vishnu was raised on the hillock named Vishnupad There are some of the several stone pieces removed from the Vishnu temple during its destruction that is still strewn around the Qutub Minar. Note the different types of stones and its color, that make the Qutub MinarOn one side was an elliptical enclave formed by 27 Nakshatra (constellation) temples. A gigantic red-stone, ornate gate- way led to the sacred enclave known as Nakshatralaya. There fore gateway is traditionally known as Alaya-Dwar. During Allauddin Khiljis time the surroundings were totally crumbling ruins. Why would Allauddin want to raise an ornate gigantic gateway(of the Hindu orange colour) leading from nowhere to nowhere ? The tower girth is made up of exactly 24 folds, arcs and triangles alternating. This shows that the figure 24 had social prominence and significance in the premises. The apertures for letting in light are 27. Considered along with the 27 constellation pavilions mentioned earlier it leaves no doubt that the tower too was an astronomical observation pole.Also note the arch shape of the entrance. This is a derivation from the shiva linga. This shape was copied to islamic structures elsewhere so much so that today most domes of mosques all around the world as well as space between pillars and corridors of mosque use the same shiva linga shape.It is notable that Muslim Conquerors used to take with them the local artisans,architects and workers (only privilege for men) as slaves to build large similar structures in their home countries after massacring people(especially old people and men) of the invaded places.Only Women and Children were spared and taken as slaves.
Posted on: Sun, 05 Oct 2014 07:09:49 +0000
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