Firoz Shah Tughlaq was ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1351 to 1388 AD. He belonged to the Tughlaq dynasty, which had Turkic origins. His reign marked a period of notable administrative and agricultural reforms.
Ascension to the Throne
Firoz Shah became Sultan after the death of his cousin, Muhammad bin Tughlaq. This event took place in Thatta, Sindh. The transition of power was challenging. Initially, no one was keen to accept the throne. Eventually, Firoz was persuaded by his supporters to assume leadership.
Military Leadership
Firoz Shah relied heavily on his commander, Malik Maqbul. Malik was known as khan-i-jahan, meaning “true ruler.” During military expeditions, Malik governed in Firoz’s absence. Firoz chose not to reconquer territories that had declared independence. This decision aimed to prevent further autonomy among other regions.
Religious Policies
Firoz Shah’s religious policies were strict. He promoted orthodox Islam and consulted Ulemas for major decisions. He imposed Jazia, a tax on non-Muslims, including Brahmins. This policy was controversial and led to the destruction of Hindu temples. His measures were influenced by his personal background, being the son of a Hindu mother.
Administrative Reforms
Firoz implemented several administrative reforms aimed at improving governance. He abolished 21 miscellaneous taxes, reducing the financial burden on citizens. Only five Shariyat-approved taxes remained. He ordered a revenue survey to assess the state’s income, conducted by Khawaja Hisamuddin.
Revenue Reforms
Firoz Shah’s revenue reforms were . He introduced a fixed revenue system. This system ensured stability for peasants, preventing additional burdens. The key taxes included:
- Kharaj – Land tax of one-tenth of produce.
- Zakat – 2.5% tax on acquired property by Muslims.
- Jizya – Tax on non-Muslims.
Judicial Reforms
Firoz Shah reformed the harsh judicial system. Torture and brutal punishments were abolished. The penal code was softened to benefit common people. This reform aimed to create a more humane legal environment.
Agrarian Reforms
Firoz introduced agrarian reforms to support peasants. He waived the Sondhar loans from the previous reign, writing off two crore maal. He promoted superior crop cultivation and established pilot farms for agricultural innovation. Five canals were dug to improve irrigation.
Canal System Development
In 1355, Firoz constructed a double canal system from the Yamuna to the Sutlej. This project supported the new city of Hissar-i-Firoza. The canals, known as Rajwahas, were vital for irrigation. The canal system was later repaired during Akbar’s reign.
Infrastructure Development
Firoz Shah prioritised infrastructure. He built schools, hospitals, and rest stops. He also reconstructed the Qutub Minar after an earthquake. His focus on infrastructure aimed to enhance public welfare.
Cultural Contributions
Firoz Shah’s reign saw cultural advancements. He favoured scholars like Zia-ud-din Barani. Several Sanskrit works on medicine and science were translated into Persian. His autobiography, Futuhat-i-Firoz Shahi, provides vital information about his reign.
End of Firoz Shah’s Reign
Firoz Shah’s reign ended with personal tragedies. His eldest son, Fath Khan, died in 1376. He abdicated in August 1387, appointing his son Muhammad as king. A slave rebellion forced him to name his grandson, Tughluq Khan, as ruler.
Succession and Decline
Firoz Shah’s death led to a succession struggle. Nobles rebelled, seeking independence. His leniency had empowered the nobles, undermining his authority. His successor, Ghiyas-ud-Din Tughlaq II, struggled to maintain control.
Invasion of Timur
Timur’s invasion in 1398 devastated Delhi. This event marked the decline of the Tughlaq dynasty. The empire had weakened by this time. The invasion exposed the vulnerabilities of the Tughlaq rule.
Legacy of Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Firoz Shah Tughlaq’s legacy is complex. He is remembered for his reforms and contributions to public welfare. However, his religious intolerance and administrative failures also marred his reputation. His reign brought into light the challenges of governance in a diverse society.
Tughlaq Dynasty Overview
The Tughlaq dynasty ruled Delhi from 1321 to 1413. It included notable rulers like Ghiyath-ud-din Tughlaq and Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. The dynasty faced numerous challenges, including regional independence movements and invasions.
Rise of the Tughlaq Dynasty
Before the Tughlaqs, the Khalji dynasty ruled Delhi. The last Khalji ruler, Khusro Khan, was overthrown by Ghazi Malik in 1320. This coup marked the beginning of Tughlaq rule. Ghazi Malik took the title Ghiyath-ud-din Tughlaq.
Downfall of the Tughlaq Dynasty
The Tughlaq dynasty faced decline during Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign. Provinces like Bengal and Deccan gained independence. Timur’s invasion further weakened the empire. The rise of regional sultanates marked the end of Tughlaq power.
Causes of Decline
Several factors contributed to the Tughlaq downfall:
- Poor communication and transportation hindered control over distant territories.
- Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s failed policies led to widespread revolts.
- Firoz Shah’s leniency and lack of military strength weakened central authority.
- Timur’s invasion exposed the empire’s vulnerabilities.
