[Solved] Locations of Early Sultanate Mosques | Delhi and Ajmer

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and Arhai Din Ka Jhonpra are situated respectively at:

[Jharkhand P.C.S. Prelims 2021]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

The first generation of Turkish rulers established monumental mosques to symbolize their victory and the establishment of a new faith in India, often utilizing the materials and sites of former temples.

Authentic Source Evidence

Quwwat-ul-Islam (Might of Islam) is the first mosque built in Delhi at the Qutub Minar complex. Arhai Din Ka Jhonpra (The Shed of Two-and-a-Half Days) is a historic mosque in Ajmer built by Qutbuddin Aybak in 1192 CE.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is the correct pairing. Both were commissioned by Qutbuddin Aybak following the Ghorid conquests.

Logic 2: These structures are notable for their 'spolia' architecture, where pillars from Hindu and Jain temples were reused in a new Islamic layout.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why is the mosque in Ajmer called 'Arhai Din Ka Jhonpra'?"

Legend states it was either constructed in two and a half days or hosted a fair (Urs) that lasted for two and a half days.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"These two mosques represent the 'transitional phase' of Indian architecture, where local craftsmanship and materials were adapted to the structural requirements of Islamic prayer."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Qutbuddin Aybak 3 Qutub Minar 2

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