RAS question
The Tughlaqabad Fort in Delhi was built by:
Correct answer: (C) Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq.
Tughlaqabad Fort in Delhi was built by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty, in 1321.
Explanation
Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq is the right answer because the fort is directly tied to his rule and his attempt to create a new fortified capital. Incredible India states that Tughlaqabad Fort was built by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, founder of the Tughlaq dynasty, in 1321, and describes it as the third historic city of Delhi after Lal Kot and Siri. The fort was meant to project royal power and function as a strong fortress, with high fortifications, granaries, water reservoirs and hidden chambers. The site is also connected with the Nizamuddin Auliya curse legend, and Ghiyasuddin later died when a wooden pavilion collapsed on him.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Firoz Shah Tughlaq is associated in the options with Firoz Shah Kotla, while Tughlaqabad Fort is attributed to Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq.
- (B) Alauddin Khalji is linked in the options to Siri Fort and Alai Darwaza, not to the construction of Tughlaqabad Fort.
- (D) Muhammad bin Tughlaq is better known for his experiments, while Tughlaqabad Fort is specifically credited to Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq.
Concept
This tests Delhi Sultanate architecture and dynasty-wise monument attribution. RAS repeats such questions because forts, cities and rulers are a compact way to test medieval political history through material remains.