Transition Era Architecture

Who Built Purana Quila? Sher Shah Suri and Humayun

Purana Quila in Delhi was largely constructed in its present form by Sher Shah Suri after he took the site from Humayun.

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Who amongst the following got 'Purana Quila' of Delhi built in the present form?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Purana Quila is a site of layered history, representing the transition between the Mughal and Suri dynasties in the 16th century.

Authentic Source Evidence


While Humayun began building the city of Dinpanah on this site, it was Sher Shah Suri (after defeating Humayun) who built most of the existing fortifications and grand gateways. He renamed it Shergarh. Therefore, the fort 'in its present form' is largely attributed to him.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Sher Shah Suri is responsible for the massive walls and the Qila-i-Kuhna mosque.

  • Logic 2: Akbar and Shah Jahan built their own major forts (Agra/Fatehpur Sikri and Red Fort Delhi) rather than completing Purana Quila.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the name given to Purana Quila by Humayun?"

    Dinpanah (Sanctuary of Faith).

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Purana Quila is a hybrid monument where Mughal foundations were built upon and monumentalized by the Afghan Suri dynasty."

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