Review: Delhi's Qutb Complex: The Minar, Mosque and Mehrauli, by Catherine B. Asher

Catherine B. Asher's book, 'Delhi's Qutb Complex: The Minar, Mosque and Mehrauli,' provides a comprehensive, long-term history of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning from its origins in the late 12th century to its evolution through the 13th century and beyond into early modern and colonial periods. The work highlights the Qutb Minar's architectural significance while also addressing the often-overlooked smaller structures within the complex, offering a nuanced perspective on its development. Asher synthesizes extensive academic literature, aiming to contextualize contemporary debates, particularly those involving Hindutva nationalists who interpret certain elements of the mosque as evidence of violent subjugation. The book's rich illustrations and broad appeal make it a valuable resource for both scholars and the general public.

Rajagopalan, M. (2018). Review: Delhi’s Qutb Complex: The Minar, Mosque and Mehrauli, by Catherine B. Asher. Journal of the Society of Architectural Historians, 77(3), 349–350. https://doi.org/10.1525/jsah.2018.77.3.349