The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, marked the initiation of Muslim rule in India. Founded by Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1206 AD, this dynasty played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of medieval India.
Qutub-ud-din Aibak (1206-1210):
Qutub-ud-din Aibak, often regarded as the real founder of Muslim rule in India, established the first independent Turkish Kingdom and assumed the title of ‘Sultan.’ Following the death of Ghuri, he seized independence in 1206 AD and declared Lahore as his capital. Known as ‘Lakh Baksh’ for his generous donations, Aibak issued coins in various metals, discarding the carving of the Abbasid caliph’s name.His legacy extended beyond politics, with notable contributions to art and architecture.
Art & Architecture:
Aibak’s architectural endeavors included the construction of two mosques – Quwwat-ul-Islam in Delhi and Arhai din ka Jhonpara in Ajmer. Notably, the foundation of the iconic Qutub Minar, dedicated to Sufi Saint Khwaja Qutubuddin Bakthiyar Kaki, was laid by Aibak and later completed by his successor, Iltutmish. Additionally, Aibak patronized scholars like Fakhar-ud-Din and Hasan Nizami, contributing to the literary and historical richness of the Delhi Sultanate.
Aram Shah (1210):
Aram Shah, considered the most incapable ruler, paved the way for the ascension of Shamsuddin Iltutmish. Iltutmish, Aibak’s son-in-law, emerged as a capable leader and became the Sultan after disposing of Aram Shah.
Shamsuddin Iltutmish (1210-1236):
Iltutmish, belonging to the Ilbari tribe, shifted the capital from Lahore to Delhi, consolidating Turkish rule in India. He defeated the ruler of Kwarizam, introduced Arabic coinage, and created a ruling elite known as the ‘Turkan-i-chahalgani.’ Iltutmish nominated Razia as his successor, establishing hereditary succession in the Delhi Sultanate.
Razia Sultan (1236-1240):
Razia Sultan, the first and only female Muslim ruler of medieval India, faced challenges due to her unconventional approach. Her adoption of male attire, participation in hunting, and her military pursuits sparked resentment among Turkish nobles and theologians. A rebellion in Sirhind led to her imprisonment and eventual demise, marking the end of her brief but significant rule.
Balban (1266-1287):
Also known as Ulugh Khan, Balban was a key architect of the Delhi Sultanate. He emphasized the divine authority of the Sultan, broke the power of the Forty, and introduced the Persian festival Nawrouz. Balban’s administration was characterized by a separation of the finance and military departments, impartial justice, and exclusion of non-Turks from significant roles. He employed spies to monitor noble activities and introduced symbolic gestures like sijada and paibos to assert his superiority.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who was the founder of the Slave Dynasty?
A: Qutb-ud-din Aibak, a former slave and general of Muhammad Ghori, founded the Slave Dynasty after Ghori’s death in 1206. Aibak became the first Sultan of Delhi and established the dynasty that ruled northern India for several decades.
Q: How did Qutb-ud-din Aibak die, and who succeeded him?
A: Qutb-ud-din Aibak died in 1210 due to a fall from his horse during a game of polo. After his death, his son Aram Shah ascended to the throne. However, Aram Shah’s reign was short-lived, and he faced challenges from other nobles. Eventually, Iltutmish, another prominent noble, succeeded Aram Shah and strengthened the Slave Dynasty.
Q: What were the major achievements of the Slave Dynasty?
A: The Slave Dynasty is notable for being the first Muslim dynasty in Delhi. Qutb-ud-din Aibak started the construction of the Qutub Minar, a famous landmark in Delhi, which was later completed by his successors. Iltutmish, the third ruler of the dynasty, established a stable administration, introduced the silver tanka currency, and successfully dealt with external threats.
Q: Who was Razia Sultan, and what was her significance in the Slave Dynasty?
A: Razia Sultan was the daughter of Iltutmish and became the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. She ruled from 1236 to 1240. Razia Sultan faced significant opposition from the nobility due to her gender, and her reign was marked by political challenges. Despite her relatively short rule, she is remembered for breaking gender norms and attempting to strengthen the administration.
Q: How did the Slave Dynasty come to an end?
A: The Slave Dynasty came to an end in 1290 with the death of the last ruler, Shams-ud-din Kayumars. After his death, a power struggle ensued among various claimants to the throne. This period of instability paved the way for the Khalji Dynasty, as Jalal-ud-din Khalji emerged victorious and established his rule in Delhi in 1290, marking the end of the Slave Dynasty.
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