Kutub Minar is an ancient monument located in the Mehrauli district of Delhi, India. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This towering structure, made of bricks, is the tallest building in the world made of bricks. It is believed that the Minar was built by breaking down 27 temples in the vicinity and using their materials.
Near the Minar, there is an iron pillar known as the “Kirti Stambh,” believed to fulfill wishes if one encircles it with their arms. There are many fascinating facts related to this historic monument.
Magical Kirti Stambh of Kutub Minar
If you’ve seen the Bollywood movie “Chini Kum,” you might remember the final scene where Amitabh Bachchan stands in front of the Kirti Stambh, praying for his wishes.
The movie portrays that if someone embraces the diameter of this pillar with their arms, their wishes come true.
However, this isn’t as easy as it sounds. You need to encircle it from behind, not from the front.
Origin in Madhya Pradesh
It is said that this Kirti Stambh was initially constructed in Madhya Pradesh and later brought to Delhi during the reign of Chandragupta II.
Various legends surround its creation, one suggesting it was initially intended for a Vishnu temple flagpole. However, plans changed, and it found its place in Kutub Minar.
Standing Tall for 1600 Years
This pillar, made of iron, has been standing tall for 1600 years. Remarkably, it has never rusted, and no battle has ever harmed it.
The diameter of this pillar is 48 centimeters. If you look closely, you’ll find inscriptions in Brahmi script on its surface.
The Locked Door of Kutub Minar
Did you know that there is a door in Kutub Minar that never opens? Initially, people could enter through this door, but after an incident, it was permanently closed.
Even if you manage to reach the door, entry is prohibited due to strict regulations.
Tragedy Struck on December 4th
On December 4th, 1981, tragedy struck when a crowd gathered to visit this monument. Approximately 400 people went inside, and chaos ensued. The weather was harsh, causing the lighting inside the Minar to fail.
Additionally, the balconies inside were covered due to the crowd. Reports suggest that some boys harassed a girl, and she fled downstairs in fear.
People thought the Minar was collapsing, creating a stampede. Consequently, 45 lives, mostly school children on a field trip, were lost.
December 4th: The Dark Day of Kutub Minar
Since that day, entry into the inside of Kutub Minar has been restricted, marking December 4th as a somber day in its history.
