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Qutb Minar has been lost to time , some suggest that it was built as a sign of aggression , others argue that it was a symbiotic gesture to integrate all religious beliefs . Looking skyward at the Minar ’ s peak some 72 metres above I just marvelled at the intricate construction and the fact that this World Heritage site is considered to be the tallest brick-built minaret in the world .
The Qutb Minar was the perfect way to ease into travel in India . A tourist attraction that brings with it the ‘ dangers ’ of Indian travel ; the beggars , the touts , the confusion , and the masses . All part of a well-worn tourist trail , complete with many transportation options , excellent accommodation , outstanding food , and lots of English being spoken .
Two hundred and thirty odd kilometres south is the city of Agra . Situated on the banks of the Yamunu river in the state of Uttar Pradesh I marvelled at the thought that Agra , with its population of 1.3 million people , is the country ’ s 23rd most populous city . Twenty third ? Does my home country of Australia even have 23 cities ?
Like Delhi , Agra has a long history , yet it seems the ‘ golden age ’ started with the Mughals . The Mughal empire was one of expansion , starting around the 1520 ’ s in Uzbekistan and quickly spreading throughout south-Asia , and despite conquering many lands , the Mughal rulers were not about suppression . They embraced the cultures , religions , and the teachings of others . Through this practice of equality Agra became the capital of the region and the Mughal empire .
The city became a cultural centre , with emphasis on education , arts , religion , and trade . In fact , many travellers from the west remarked that Agra was perhaps the greatest city in the world , full of commerce and power .
“ Agra and Fatehpur Sikri are two
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