Question

Which among the following was not built by Mughal emperor Akbar?

• A. Agra Fort
• B. Allahabad Fort
• C. Fatehpur Sikri
• D. Red Fort

Hint:

When studying Mughal architecture, remember that Akbar was responsible for several important forts and cities, but the Red Fort is attributed to his grandson, Shah Jahan.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding Akbar’s architectural projects.
Emperor Akbar was known for his impressive construction projects, including the Agra Fort, Allahabad Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri, all of which he built during his reign. However, the Red Fort was built by his grandson, Shah Jahan, and is not an Akbar creation.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Agra Fort: Agra Fort was built by Akbar and is a major Mughal architectural achievement.
(B) Allahabad Fort: Allahabad Fort was also built by Akbar, further solidifying his architectural legacy.
(C) Fatehpur Sikri: Akbar constructed Fatehpur Sikri as his capital city, known for its grandeur and intricate designs.
(D) Red Fort: Correct — The Red Fort was built by Shah Jahan, not Akbar.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) Red Fort, as it was constructed by Shah Jahan, not Akbar.

Answer 2

Instead of recalling the fact directly, this can be solved by matching each monument to the specific Mughal ruler who is historically credited with commissioning it.

1. Agra Fort: The present red sandstone fort at Agra was rebuilt on Akbar's orders starting in 1565, so it belongs to his reign.
2. Allahabad Fort: Commissioned by Akbar around 1583 on the banks of the Yamuna to guard the confluence region, so it also belongs to his reign.
3. Fatehpur Sikri: Built by Akbar as his new capital in the 1570s to commemorate Sheikh Salim Chishti, so this too is an Akbar monument.
4. Red Fort: Built in Shahjahanabad (Delhi) by Shah Jahan starting in 1638, two rulers after Akbar, as his new capital's citadel, so it is not an Akbar monument.

Three of the four options trace back to Akbar's own reign, while the Red Fort belongs to Shah Jahan's later reign, making it the odd one out.

Therefore, the correct answer is Red Fort.