Correct Option
The correct option is It is built entirely of white marble..
Explanation
The Qutub Minar is a quintessential example of early Indo-Islamic architecture, specifically the Mamluk or Slave Dynasty style. It serves as a victory tower and a minaret attached to the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement It was built in the thirteenth century. is Correct: The construction of the Qutub Minar was initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak around 1199 AD and was largely completed by his successor, Iltutmish, around 1220 AD. Therefore, the primary construction period falls within the thirteenth century.
- Statement It is associated with the saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki. is Correct: Although commissioned by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the minaret was named in honor of the renowned Sufi saint, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki, whom the Sultan greatly revered.
- Statement It is built entirely of white marble. is Incorrect: The Qutub Minar is not built entirely of white marble. The first three storeys are constructed of red sandstone. The fourth and fifth storeys, which were repaired and added later (notably by Firoz Shah Tughlaq), are made of marble and sandstone.
- Statement It has bands of inscriptions intertwined with foliated designs. is Correct: The architectural style features complex geometric patterns. The surface of the minaret is adorned with bands of inscriptions (Quranic verses) intertwined with foliated designs (floral motifs), characteristic of Islamic architectural ornamentation.
Key Takeaway
Key Takeaway: The Qutub Minar is primarily a red sandstone structure; white marble was introduced only in the upper storeys during later renovations by Firoz Shah Tughlaq.