[Solved] Who brought Ashoka Pillars to Delhi? | Firuz Tughluq

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

[U.P.P.C.S. Pre 1996]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

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

Authentic Source Evidence

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.

Analytical Breakdown

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.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why did Firuz Shah move the pillars?"

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

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

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

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Ashoka 7 Feroz Shah Kotla 2

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