Complete Delhi Sultanate: 1206-1526 History Notes

Delhi Sultanate History Notes: In the year 1204 CE, the strategic mastermind, Mohammad Ghori, made a pivotal move in the annals of Indian history by entrusting the territories he had triumphed over in India to the stewardship of his trusted lieutenant, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, before returning to native province of Ghori.

This decision marked a significant turning point, as, following Ghori's demise in 1206 CE, the absence of a direct heir led to Aibak establishing sovereignty over these regions. It was under these circumstances that 1206 CE witnessed the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate, a monumental event that would shape the subcontinent's history for the next three centuries.

Delhi sultanate 1206-1526

The Delhi Sultanate, with its inception under Aibak, heralded the beginning of a new era in Indian history, characterized by the rule of five successive dynasties:

1. The Slave Dynasty,
2. The Khilji Dynasty,
3. The Tughlaq Dynasty,
4. The Sayyid Dynasty, and
5. The Lodi Dynasty.

This exploration offers a glimpse into the critical roles and landmark achievements of the principal rulers of these dynasties, providing insights into their governance and the enduring impact of their reigns on the evolution of the subcontinent. Through this lens, we delve into the intricate mosaic of the Delhi Sultanate's history, unearthing the stories of ambition, intrigue, and resilience that characterized this fascinating period.

Slave Dynasty 1206 - 1289 AD

• In the annals of medieval Indian history, the establishment of the Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, in 1206 CE by Qutbuddin Aibak, marks a pivotal chapter in the evolution of the Delhi Sultanate.
• This dynasty, derived from the Arabic term "Mamluk," meaning "slave born of free parents," symbolizes a unique era where former slaves rose to wield unprecedented power and influence.
• Aibak, despite ascending to the throne, perpetually considered himself a servile disciple of Mohammad Ghori, underlining his Ilbari Turkic heritage.
• He strategically established his dominion in Lahore, aiming to fortify his reign against challenges from Ghori's other lieutenants, Yildoz and Qubacha.

• Aibak's reign is distinguished by his devout patronage of Islamic architecture and Sufism, notably initiating the construction of the Qutb Minar in Delhi in memory of the Sufi saint Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki.
• This era also witnessed the transformation of a Hindu temple into the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, and the creation of the Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra Mosque in Ajmer, further emphasizing the Islamic architectural legacy.

• Iltutmish, another eminent ruler of the Slave Dynasty, is often hailed as the real consolidator of the Delhi Sultanate, shifting the empire's capital from Lahore to Delhi.
• His introduction of the silver tanka and copper jital marked the beginning of standardized currency in the Sultanate.
• Iltutmish's administrative innovations, such as the Iqta system and the formation of the Chahalgani or the Forty, laid the foundational structures for governance and loyalty within the realm.

• Ghiyasuddin Balban, succeeding the throne, introduced iron and blood policies to strengthen the sultanate against Mongol invasions and internal dissent.
• His adoption of Persian court customs, including Sijda and Paibos, signified a cultural infusion that elevated the sultanate's prestige.
• Balban's declaration of the sultan as the "Shadow of God" and the enforcement of divine right to rule underscored the theocratic nature of his governance.

• The Slave Dynasty, through its blend of military prowess, administrative acumen, and cultural patronage, significantly contributed to the fabric of Indian history, laying the groundwork for successive dynasties to build upon.
• This period, marked by monumental architectural achievements and the integration of Persian cultural practices, underscores a dynamic era of transformation and resilience in the Indian subcontinent.

Khilji dynasty (1290 – 1320 CE) 

• In the annals of medieval Indian history, the ascendancy of the Khilji dynasty (1290 – 1320 CE) marks a pivotal era of transformative leadership and strategic ingenuity. Founded by Jalaluddin Khilji, following the demise of the last ruler of the Slave dynasty, the Khilji reign introduced a new chapter of vigorous expansion and military prowess.
• Among its sovereigns, Alauddin Khilji stands out as the most eminent, renowned for his astute military strategies that successfully repelled numerous Mongol invasions, ensuring the stability and expansion of his empire.

• A notable episode under Alauddin Khilji's reign was during the Gujarat campaign in 1299 CE, where he acquired a formidable general, Malik Kafur, for a thousand dinars.
• Malik Kafur's leadership skills were instrumental in Alauddin's southern conquests, enhancing the empire's territorial span and consolidating Khilji's rule.

• Alauddin Khilji's tenure is distinguished not only by military achievements but also by revolutionary administrative reforms.
• He was the first Sultan in Delhi to implement a market control system, showcasing his serious commitment to financial and revenue reforms.
• This included the establishment of the 'Diwan-i-Mustakhraj,' a new revenue department aimed at optimizing the state's income.
• Furthermore, Alauddin Khilji pioneered the 'Masahat system' for land measurement, a groundbreaking approach to land revenue assessment.
• By standardizing land measurement, he rationalized the tax rate to 50%, a significant reduction from the exorbitant rates previously imposed, thus demonstrating his innovative governance and forward-thinking policies.

• Alauddin Khilji's reign exemplifies a period of strategic military campaigns coupled with administrative innovation, laying foundational reforms that would influence the subcontinent's governance for generations.
• His legacy is a testament to the dynamic and transformative nature of his leadership, marking a significant epoch in the history of the Delhi Sultanate.

The Tughlaq Dynasty 1320–1398 C.E.

• The Tughlaq Dynasty (1320–1398 CE) stands out as a remarkable chapter in the annals of Indian history, epitomizing a period of profound administrative innovation and eclectic leadership.
• Founded by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the dynasty was notable for its compassionate fiscal policies, including the reduction of the heightened agricultural tax rates previously escalated by Alauddin Khilji.
• Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq distinguished himself as the first Sultan to commission the construction of irrigation canals, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity.
• The Sufi saint, Nizamuddin Auliya, famously remarked to Ghiyasuddin, "Hunuz Dilli dur ast" (Delhi is still far away), capturing the perpetual challenge of governing the expansive and diverse realm of Delhi.

• Mohammad bin Tughlaq, another prominent Sultan of this lineage, is remembered for his ambitious yet controversial initiatives.
• Historian Ziauddin Barani chronicles five significant events during his reign: the tax increase in the Doab region (1325-26 CE), the establishment of Devagiri as the kingdom's capital (1327 CE), the introduction of token currency (1329 CE), and military expeditions to Khorasan and Karajal (1332-34 CE).
• Despite his intentions to enhance the state's welfare, Mohammad bin Tughlaq's ventures often did not culminate in success, leading some contemporaries and later scholars to dub him the "Mad Sultan".

• Firoz Shah Tughlaq, another key figure in this dynasty, endeavored to epitomize Islamic virtues. His reign was marked by controversial acts, such as the destruction of the Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Jwalamukhi Temple in Kangra, reflecting the era's religious and cultural tensions.
• He also imposed the Jizya tax on Brahmins and established a separate department, Diwan-e-Bandagan, for managing slaves, demonstrating a unique approach to governance and social structure.

• The Tughlaq Dynasty, therefore, represents a complex tapestry of ambition, innovation, and controversy, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of Indian history.
• Their legacy, a testament to the challenges of leadership and the intricacies of medieval statecraft, continues to fascinate historians and scholars alike.

Sayyid Dynasty 1414 – 1451 A.D.

• The Sayyid Dynasty (1414 – 1451 AD) marks a distinctive period in the annals of Indian history, founded by the visionary leader Khizr Khan.
• He notably adopted the title 'Rayat-e-Ala', symbolizing his sovereign ethos and leadership qualities.
• This era is also remembered for the patronage of intellectuals and scholars, exemplified by the support given by Mubarak Shah, another eminent ruler of the Sayyid Dynasty, to the scholar Yahya bin Sarabindi.
• Under Mubarak Shah's auspices, Yahya bin Sarabindi authored the historic work 'Tareekh-e-Mubarak Shahi', which offers invaluable insights into the period's socio-political landscape.
• This epoch, characterized by its intellectual vibrancy and effective governance, plays a crucial role in understanding the multifaceted tapestry of Indian heritage.

Lodi Dynasty 1451 – 1526 C.E.

• The Lodi Dynasty (1451 – 1526 CE), a significant chapter in the tapestry of Indian history, was founded by Bahlul Lodi, a prominent figure of Afghan descent.
• Bahlul Lodi's ascension marked the commencement of the Afghan hegemony within the Delhi Sultanate, introducing a new era of governance and cultural amalgamation.
• Following Bahlul Lodi, Sikandar Lodi ascended to the throne, further solidifying the dynasty's foundations through strategic enhancements in espionage systems and contributing to the cultural landscape by penning verses in Persian under the pseudonym 'Gulrukh'.
• Notably, Sikandar Lodi initiated the 'Gaz-i Sikandari', a unit of measurement for land, laying the groundwork for administrative reforms that would influence the region's agrarian economy.

• Ibrahim Lodi, the dynasty's last sovereign, faced significant challenges during his reign, culminating in the pivotal battles against Rana Sanga of Mewar around 1517-18 CE at Ghatoili, where he suffered a decisive defeat.
• His reign ultimately concluded on the battlefield of Panipat in 1526 CE, where he engaged in combat against Babur, marking a historic moment as he was the first and only Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate to die in battle.
• This event not only brought an end to the Lodi Dynasty but also heralded the beginning of the Mughal era in India, significantly altering the course of the subcontinent's history.

• As historians, we delve into the intricacies of the Lodi Dynasty's contributions to the Indian subcontinent, recognizing their role in shaping the political, cultural, and economic landscapes of their time.
• Their legacy, characterized by both their military engagements and administrative innovations, offers invaluable insights into the complex tapestry of India's historical narrative