SMITH'S FOLLY

Ankur Bagai 7 months ago

I recently had the opportunity to visit the SMITH'S FOLLY Monument at Qutub Minar, and I must say it was a fascinating experience. This lesser-known structure within the Qutub Minar complex offers a unique glimpse into the architectural history of Delhi.

SMITH'S FOLLY, also known as the 'Smith's Cupola,' stands as a remnant of British colonial influence amidst the ancient ruins. Its distinct design, a fusion of Gothic and Mughal styles, immediately captures your attention. The monument's intricate stonework and ornamental details showcase the craftsmanship of the era, leaving me in awe of the skill and artistry involved.

What struck me the most was the monument's prominent cupola, which rises above the surrounding structures. As I climbed the steps to the top, I was rewarded with a panoramic view of the Qutub Minar complex and its surroundings. The sight was truly breathtaking, with a blend of ancient and modern elements coming together in perfect harmony.

Though SMITH'S FOLLY may not receive as much attention as its neighboring structures, it undoubtedly adds an intriguing layer to the overall experience of Qutub Minar. It serves as a reminder of the complex historical tapestry that Delhi embodies, showcasing the confluence of different cultures and architectural styles throughout the centuries.

Visiting SMITH'S FOLLY allowed me to appreciate the rich heritage and architectural legacy of the region. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and cultural exchange that defines Delhi's past and present. I highly recommend including SMITH'S FOLLY in your itinerary when visiting Qutub Minar, as it offers a unique perspective and enriches your understanding of the site's historical significance.

Blue Devilz 9 months ago

It is said that lightning never strikes a place twice, but tall structure like the Qutub Minar have always been exceptions. There are several records of the tower being struck by lightning and other natural calamities have taken its toll on the highest stone tower in the world. But the string of disaster has left the minar unscathed except for a slight tilt, some two feet of the perpendicular.

The first recorded lightning strike on the Qutub Minar happened in 1368, when a lightning strike severely damaged the top storey of the Qutub Minar. Sultan Firoz Shah Tughluq replaced the fallen storey with with two floors and crowned it with a cupola. The restoration also introduced white marble into the otherwise red and buff sandstone.

Sikandar Lodi also carried out some repairs on the Qutub Minar in 1503 but the nature and extent of damage is not recorded.

The next major damage happed during the earthquake of 1803. Although much lesser in magnitude than the 1368 lightning the damage was significant enough to destroy Firoz Shah’s cupola permanently.

Faced with an incomplete Minar, the then British Governor-General of India , Lord Wellesly authorized Major Robert Smith, the hitherto respected builder of the St.James’ Church, Delhi, to carry out the necessary repairs. These works were completed in 1828 at the not-insignificant sum of Rs. 17,000 of the time.

Only, Major Smith had exceeded his brief by re-inventing what he had been asked to re-create. He had replaced an Indo-Islamic cupola with a Bengali style chatthri! The glorious tower of Islamic dominance had been capped with a Hindu cupola!

The prospect was so ridiculous and the cupola so out of place, that Lord Hardinge eventually had it taken down in 1848 and placed it on the outer lawns of the Qutub Complex, where it still lies, like an impure,  adulterated crown that has fallen off the Minar’s head. It has been called Smith’s Folly ever since.

Shyamal Mishra 17 months ago

Home to the most beautiful step wells in the country, Jamali Kamali Mosque and a 200 acre park with facets of heritage peeping at you from every nook and cranny, Mehrauli is one of those treasure houses where the stories of the past can go on for years. Visitors need a whole day at the Mehrauli Archaeological Park to truly enjoy the opulent 1000-year old legacy of this neighbourhood. A great spot for picnics, this giant heritage park with Qutub Minar in the backdrop, has become a popular cricket playground among the local youngsters. Mehrauli has a number of artistic gems that have been converted into stunning art galleries & rooftop restaurants popular for a grand view of the Qutub Minar and large part of South Delhi.
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