Could Qutub Minar Actually Be a Vedhshal? Former ASI Director Claims Insight
Synopsis
In a bold revelation, former ASI director Dharamveer Sharma claims that Qutub Minar is not merely a minaret but a historical Vedhshala, an ancient observatory. His arguments raise questions about the structure's original purpose, igniting discussions around its historical significance.
Key Takeaways
Qutub Minar may have originally been a Vedhshala .
Foundation shape is oblong instead of expected circular.
Structure is tilted 25 feet towards the South.
Historical debates about its purpose continue.
Research is essential to uncover historical truths .
New Delhi, Jan 3 (NationPress) The former Regional Director of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Dharamveer Sharma, asserted on Saturday that the renowned Qutub Minar in the capital was actually a “Vedhshala” (an ancient observatory for astronomical studies). He provided compelling evidence to support his assertions.
At the Shabdotsav 2026 event, the ex-ASI director stated, “I refer to Qutub Minar as a Vedhshala for a reason. Every structure has a design and purpose. For a circular edifice, one would expect a circular foundation, but its foundation is oblong.”
Reflecting on his extensive experience, he noted that he spent years researching the monument and uncovered numerous unknown details about it that remain undocumented.
“Any building is constructed with intent, which is evident in its foundation. The foundation was excavated in 1954. Being circular, it should logically have had a circular base, yet it is oblong, measuring 62 feet in length and 52 feet in width,” he elaborated.
He further argued, “Qutub Minar is tilted 25 feet towards the South, indicating a specific reason for this inclination. For such a slanted structure to endure, robust cantilever support was essential, and this was indeed incorporated.”
Diving deeper into the scientific aspects, he explained that on June 21, the longest day of the year, the sun aligns in Dakshinayan, and notably, the shadow of Qutub Minar does not touch the ground for half an hour.
“All of this is compelling evidence that this was originally a Vedhshala,” he asserted, reinforcing the idea that the original character and purpose of the monument were altered by invading rulers.
Qutub Minar has previously been the center of controversy, with Hindu groups claiming that the ‘Vishnu Stambh’ and temples were demolished to construct this monument, while official narratives describe it as a minaret from the Mughal era.
The articulate points made by the ex-ASI director are likely to ignite further debate, drawing strong reactions from various communities.
Responding to these revelations, Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan, head of Hanuman Niwas Peeth in Ayodhya Dham, remarked, “This is a long-standing issue. He is not politicizing it; he has conducted the research himself and shared significant findings.”
Point of View
They also reflect the depth of India's rich historical narrative, emphasizing the need for thorough research and discussion on our monuments.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Qutub Minar?
Qutub Minar is a historical monument in Delhi, originally thought to be a minaret built during the Mughal era.
What is a Vedhshala?
A Vedhshala is an ancient observatory used for studying astronomy.
Who is Dharamveer Sharma?
Dharamveer Sharma is a former Regional Director of the Archaeological Survey of India.
What claims did Sharma make about Qutub Minar?
Sharma claims that Qutub Minar was originally a Vedhshala, supported by his observations about its foundation and structure.
What has been the public reaction to these claims?
The claims have sparked controversy and debate, with various communities responding strongly.
