The Delhi Sultanate was established in 1206 CE and lasted until 1526 CE. It marked the beginning of Muslim rule in India. The period is divided into five major dynasties – Mamluk, Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid, and Lodi. The Mamluk Dynasty, also known as the Slave Dynasty, was the first to rule.
Mamluk Dynasty (1206–1290)
The Mamluk Dynasty produced nine rulers from 1206 to 1290 CE. Key figures included Qutbuddin Aibak, Iltutmish, and Balban. Despite the name, these rulers were not slaves when they ascended to power. Instead, they were early Turkic sultans who had gained their freedom before their reigns.
Qutbuddin Aibak (1206–1210)
Qutbuddin Aibak was the first Sultan of Delhi. He was a former slave of Muhammad Ghori. Aibak played role in the Ghorid conquests in India, capturing key territories like Ajmer and Delhi. His reign was marked by military campaigns against Rajputs and other Indian chiefs. He died in 1210 due to a fall while playing polo.
Shamsuddin Iltutmish (1211–1236)
Iltutmish succeeded Aibak after defeating his son, Aram Shah. He was born into the Ilbari tribe and rose through the ranks to become a trusted general. Iltutmish is credited with consolidating the Sultanate, establishing a more structured administration, and expanding the empire. He faced challenges from rival Turkish nobles and the Mongols.
Challenges Faced by Iltutmish
Iltutmish encountered several difficulties during his reign. Rival Turkish nobles, such as Tajuddin Yaldoz and Nasiruddin Qubacha, sought independence. He successfully defeated Yaldoz in 1216 and Qubacha in 1227. The Mongol threat was also , but Iltutmish managed to avert direct conflict through diplomacy.
Administrative Reforms
Iltutmish made substantial contributions to the administrative structure of the Sultanate. He introduced the iqtas system, granting land assignments to military officers in exchange for service. This helped maintain law and order and collect revenue. He also established a currency system, introducing the silver ‘Tanka’ and copper ‘Jittal’.
Military Campaigns
Iltutmish undertook several military campaigns to expand his territory. He recaptured Multan and Sind from Qubacha. He also launched campaigns against the Rajputs, capturing important forts like Ranthambhor and Gwalior. His military prowess solidified the Sultanate’s control over northern India.
Relations with Mongols
Iltutmish’s diplomatic approach towards the Mongols was crucial. He avoided direct confrontation while maintaining the integrity of his kingdom. When Jalaluddin Mankbarani sought refuge in India, Iltutmish delayed his support to avoid provoking Genghis Khan.
Raziya Sultan (1236–1240)
Raziya Sultan was the daughter of Iltutmish and the first woman to rule the Sultanate. Her appointment faced opposition from the Turkish nobles. Despite her capabilities, she struggled to maintain power due to gender biases and political machinations. She attempted to assert her authority but was ultimately overthrown.
Significance of Raziya’s Reign
Raziya’s reign is notable for her efforts to consolidate power and implement reforms. She appointed non-Turkish nobles to high positions, breaking the monopoly of the Turkish elite. Her military campaigns against the Rajputs also aimed to strengthen the Sultanate.
Political Dynamics After Iltutmish
Following Iltutmish’s death, the political landscape became tumultuous. Ruknuddin, Iltutmish’s son, briefly took the throne but was soon overthrown. Raziya’s rise to power was supported by popular sentiment but was ultimately undermined by the Turkish nobles.
Legacy of the Delhi Sultanate
The Delhi Sultanate laid the foundation for subsequent Muslim rule in India. It established a distinct political and cultural identity that influenced the subcontinent. The administrative and military structures developed during this period set the stage for the later Mughal Empire.
