State-of-the-art lights to enhance Qutub experience
NEW DELHI: Walking through the 12th century Qutub Minar complex after sunset will soon be a better experience, with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) deciding to replace facade lamps at the minaret with ‘architectural lights’.
The new illumination, similar to the ones installed at Red Fort, will spruce up the Minar complex enabling visitors a detailed view of its opulent architecture, calligraphic verses, corbels, and intricate carving even at night.
The ASI has engaged the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) to carry out the replacement of lights, for which the design is being prepared.
“Our historic buildings look weak in comparison to such sites abroad as they are beautifully illuminated. Architectural lights at Qutub Minar will enhance its aesthetics and will attract more tourists. Next in line is the Safdarjung Tomb,” said Mahesh Sharma, Union minister for culture.
Façade lighting is a simple arrangement to illuminate historical structures in which lights are directed at the frontages or the surfaces to be highlighted.
Architectural lighting, also known as element illumination, is programming based technique in which beams of light are cast on components such as domes, ramparts, minarets, arches, and balconies from different angles to highlight their architectural details.
“Under architectural lightings plan, lamps are not fixed on the surface of the structure but are kept or placed at strategic points. This does not damage the building,” said a senior official of ASI.