U.P.P.C.S. Pre 1996

Relocation of Ancient Monuments

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who brought two Ashoka Pillars to Delhi from Topra and Meerut?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Firuz Shah Tughluq was fascinated by historical artifacts. Though the inscriptions remained undeciphered in his time, he recognized their antiquity and aesthetic value.

Explanation Historical chronicles record that Firuz Shah Tughluq had the Ashoka pillars from Topra (Ambala) and Meerut carefully transported to Delhi. One was installed at his palace-fort, Feroz Shah Kotla.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Firuz Shah (Option B) used advanced engineering methods of the time to move these massive monolithic pillars without breaking them.
Logic 2: His curiosity regarding these pillars marks an early medieval instance of 'archaeological interest' by a ruling monarch.

Active Recall

Question

Why did Firuz Shah move the pillars?

Answer

He was intrigued by their grandeur and desired to use them as decorative monuments to enhance the prestige of his new city, Firozabad.

Core Insight

The relocation of the pillars by Firuz Shah ensured their preservation, allowing them to be deciphered centuries later.