Kos Minars were introduced by Sher Shah Suri in medieval India, serving as distance markers along royal routes from Agra to Ajmer, Lahore, and Mandu
These minars, considered a 'marvel of India', were labelled as the country’s 'national communication system' by the Archaeological Survey of India
Kos Minars, reaching about 30 feet in height, were constructed on brick masonry platforms and plastered with lime. They varied in purpose and design along different routes
Historically, Kos Minars served different functions based on three categories: standalone landmarks, those with limited traveller facilities, and those with significant infrastructure like inns and wells
Initially established by Emperor Ashoka, the Kos Minars evolved during the Mughal era, with Jahangir and Shah Jahan contributing to their expansion
The term 'Kos' originates from Sanskrit, meaning 'one-fourth of a yojana', an ancient Indian unit of distance, while 'Minar' is derived from Arabic, meaning tower
The Indian government has begun the process to delist 18 centrally protected monuments, including Kos Minar Number 13 in Mujessar village, Haryana, from national importance