While Hinduism is the national religion in India, it has the third largest population of Muslims in the world. While both groups coexist, there are disputes between the two. One example dating back about eight hundred years is the Qutub Minar (QM). #UNESCO 1/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Despite many differences, Hindus and Muslims believe they have the right to the site of the Qutub Minar. QM is protected from disputes & change at the site and is greatly influenced by the Indian government and international groups. #PROFFARUQUIUCBERKELEY 3/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

QM was originally built by Muslims. It represents their society, the reign of Qutbu’d & the effect he had on people & architecture. It houses the first mosque in N India. QM is unique bc of the great Islamic architecture and height. #PROFFARUQUIUCBERKELEY 4/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Hindus believe QM belongs to them bc they’re many Hindu aspects- lotus flowers at the entrance & entrance pointing North rather than towards the Kaaba. They're also niches where it's clear Hindu carvings have been changed to fit Islamic culture. #UNESCO 5/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Academics have many approaches when studying QM. None include the idea of violence or Muslim superiority over Hindus- impt bc it takes the side of the Muslims & brings people to have same conclusion about QM originally being Muslim. #PROFFARUQUIUCBERKELEY 6/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Many academics have done research and formed their own opinions on the site as there is a lot of information and history about QM. The Qutub Minar is also gaining recognition as an important site and has received many international acknowledgements. 7/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

In 1993, QM was inscribed into the #UNESCO World Heritage Sites list under Criterion IV for representing an outstanding example of architectural and artistic achievements of early Islamic India. QM is also a World Wonder. 8/13 #EmoryHeritageTC #FrancescoBandarinsPhoto

The Ancient Monument & Archaeological Site and Remains Act protects QM & prohibits others from changing its integrity. India Forest Act & Environment Protection Act restricts people's actions in nature, laying out how people should behave and the site. 9/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

India's gov provides most funding for QM & owns the land. Archaeological Survey of India is the agency responsible for archaeological research, conservation & preservation of sites and manages QM. Gov has power over QM & how people view it in the future. 10/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Despite changes that have been made to QM, the integrity hasn't been compromised due to laws & the Indian gov. There have been preservations made due to pressures such as the environment and materials. Even though changes have been made, they were necessary.11/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Bc gov has a significant role in status of QM, they influence which group can claim it. India is a secular nation, but PM Modi is Hindi & makes it clear to the public. W/ a Hindu in power, the gov & Hindus can exert dominance over QM. #PROFFARUQUIUCBERKELEY 12/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Despite all that's been done to protect QM, locals want more. Visitor experience can be improved w/ more facilities (cafe, Interpretation Centre & museum).This could also increase its popularity among visitors bringing in more revenue to the nation. #UNESCO 13/13 #EmoryHeritageTC

Ordered by Qutbu’d Din Aibak, QM is a 72.5m tall minaret made of sandstone & is the highest tower in India. It was used to call people to prayer & celebrate Qutbu’d’s victory in Delhi. #UNESCO 2/13 #EmoryHeritageTC Learn more: bit.ly/2UOO86M & bit.ly/36ZU4zo