UPSC NCERT Notes - Rise of Provincial Kingdoms

In the wake of decline of the Delhi Sultanate, many provincial kingdoms arose in different parts of India. These include the kingdoms of Gujarat, Malwa, Jaunpur, Bengal, etc.

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the year AD 1398, Taimur’s attack on Delhi and the subsequent defeat of the Delhi Sultanate exposed the administrative weakness of the Sultanate. This led to regional provinces asserting their autonomy from the central authority. Bengal in the East, Sindh and Multan in the West, along with subedars in Gujarat, Malwa, and Jaunpur, declared their independence. Additionally, prominent Rajput-dominated provinces like Malwa, Mewar, Amber, and others also chose the path of autonomy.
Numerous regional powers, both pre-existing and newly emerging, played significant roles in India during the rise and fall of the Delhi Sultanate until the 15th century.

The disintegration of the Delhi Sultanate paved the way for the emergence of powerful regional kingdoms like Gujarat, Malwa, Mewar, Jaunpur, and Bengal. Various other regional powers also gained prominence in different parts of the subcontinent.

Gujarat

In the 13th century, Ulugh Khan and Nusrat Khan, who were generals under Alauddin Khilji, successfully ousted Raja Karna Baghella, the Chalukya ruler, establishing the foundation for sultanate rule in Gujarat.
Throughout the 14th century, the Delhi Sultans wielded absolute power over Gujarat.
However, signs of decline started to surface during Firuz Shah’s reign.
In the era of Firuz Tughlaq, Gujarat was governed by Zafar Khan.
The invasion by Timur in 1398 provided an opportune moment for the governors to break away from the central authority.
Consequently, both Gujarat and Malwa effectively became independent sultanates.

Significance of Gujarat

Gujarat held a pivotal position as one of the wealthiest provinces of the Delhi Sultanate, boasting fertile land, a thriving handicraft industry, and seaports facilitating trade.

Rulers of Gujarat

Key rulers of Gujarat include:

Muzaffar Shah I (AD 1407-1411)

Zafar Khan (AD 1407-1411), recognized as the independent ruler of Gujarat in 1407, assumed the title Muzaffar Shah, establishing the Muzaffarid Dynasty with Patan as the capital.
Since its inception, the Kingdom of Gujarat faced ongoing conflicts with neighboring regions like Malwa, Rajputana, Khandesh, and the Bahamani Kingdoms.

Ahmad Shah I (AD 1411-1443)

Ahmad Shah I, the true architect of the Kingdom of Gujarat, laid the foundations of Ahmedabad in AD 1413, shifting the capital from Patan.
Grandson of Zafar Khan, he implemented governance reforms, quelled noble rebellions, and both consolidated and expanded the kingdom during his extensive rule.
He conquered Saurashtra, including the Girnar Fort, ultimately returning it to the Raja after securing a tribute guarantee.
He launched an attack on the Hindu pilgrimage center of Sidhpur, causing significant destruction to many exquisite temples. Additionally, he instituted the Jizyah tax on Hindus, marking the first occurrence of such a tax in Gujarat.
A prolific builder, he drew inspiration from the architectural traditions of the Jain style. Notable constructions during his reign include the Jama Masjid in Ahmedabad and the Teen Darwaza.

Mahmud Begada (AD 1458-1511)

Considered the greatest Sultan of Gujarat, Mahmud Begada, also known as Begada, earned his title through the conquest of Junagarh and Champaner forts. He further captured the forts of Girnar Hills and established a new town named Mustafabat, serving as the second capital of Gujarat.
He forged a naval alliance with the Sultans of Turkey and Egypt, achieving victory over the Portuguese in the Battle of Chaul (AD 1508). However, he faced defeat the following year in the Battle of Diu.
His Chief Minister, Malik Ghori, and court poet Udayraja, who composed Raja Vinoda, were notable figures in his administration. Visitors to his court included the Italian traveler Barthema and the Portuguese traveler Barbosa.

Muzaffar Shah II (AD 1511-1537)

Engaged in conflict with Rana Sanga of Mewar, he played a role in restoring Mahmud Khalji II of Malwa to the throne. Babur considered him one of the great rulers of Hindustan.

Bahadur Shah (AD 1528-1537)

Annexing Malwa in AD 1531, Bahadur Shah emerged as the last capable ruler of Gujarat.

He imposed a humiliating treaty on Chittor, leading to Humayun’s attack in AD 1534-1535. Seeking assistance from the Portuguese, Bahadur Shah had to cede Bassein and Diu to them. While he recaptured Gujarat from Humayun, he met his demise at the hands of the Portuguese.

Emperor Akbar ultimately seized control of Gujarat in AD 1572-1573.

Malwa

The decline of the sultanate paved the way for the emergence of the independent kingdom of Malwa. Dilawar Khan Ghori, the Tughlaq Governor of Malwa, asserted his independence in the year 1401-1402 and proclaimed himself the King of Malwa. He expanded his kingdom’s boundaries by occupying Nimar, Sauyar, Damoh, and Chanderi, and relocated his capital from Dhar to Mandu.

Importance of Malwa

The Malwa Sultanate, situated around the rivers Narmada and Tapi, served as a buffer between Gujarat, the Bahamani Sultanate, and the Lodi Sultans of Delhi.

Rulers of Malwa

Significant rulers of Malwa include:

Hoshang Shah (AD 1406-1435)

In 1408, Hoshang Shah (1406-1435) successfully reclaimed control over the Malwa throne. He implemented a policy of religious tolerance, encouraging many Rajputs to settle in Malwa. Swiftly taking over Kherla and Gagraun, Hoshang Shah became the first Deccan ruler to extend patronage to the Jains. Nardeva Soni served as one of his advisors, and the Lalitpur Temple was constructed during his reign.

Mahmud Khalji (AD 1436-1469)

After the murder of Hoshang Shah’s son, Muhammad, Mahmud Khalji ascended to the throne. Engaging in conflicts with neighboring powers, including the Bahamani Sultans, the Sultan of Delhi, the Raja of Gondwana, the Raja of Odisha, and the Ruler of Gujarat, Mahmud Khalji also eyed the expansion of his empire into Mewar.
His battles with Rana Kumbha of Mewar resulted in both kingdoms claiming victory.
Mahmud Khalji erected a seven-storied column in Mandu, while Rana Kumbha raised a victory tower in Chittor.

Ghiyas-ud-din (AD 1469-1500)

Following Mahmud Khalji, his eldest son, Ghiyas-ud-din, also known as Ghiyath Shah, assumed the throne from 1469 to 1500. Notable for his religious devotion and cultural contributions, he constructed the Jahaz Mahal. Ghiyas-ud-din faced defeat at the hands of Rana Raimal of Chittor.

Mahmud Shah (AD 1510-1531)

The last Khilji ruler of Malwa, Mahmud Shah, surrendered to Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat, upon losing the Fort of Mandu in AD 1531. After a prolonged struggle for control in AD 1542, Sher Shah Suri took over Malwa. Shujat Khan was appointed Governor, and Baz Bahadur, Sher Shah Suri’s son, declared independence in AD 1555.

Baz Bahadur (AD 1555-1561)

The final Sultan of Malwa, Baz Bahadur, gained fame for his association with Queen Roopmati. In the Battle of Sarangpur in AD 1561, he was defeated by Akbar’s army led by Pir Muhammad Khan and Adham Khan. Surrendering to Akbar at Nagpur in AD 1570, Malwa became a province of the Mughal Empire.

Mandu Architecture

Mandu’s architecture exemplifies medieval provincial art and design, featuring official and residential pleasure palaces, mosques, artificial reservoirs, pavilions, baolis, and embattlements.
Most structures incorporate arched pavilions, creating a light and airy environment to avoid heat retention. Local stone and marble were the primary construction materials. Notable buildings in the Mandu style include Hindola Mahal, Jahaaz Mahal, Rani Rupamati’s double pavilion, and Baz Bahadur’s palace.

Mewar

Mewar, once a modest principality under the Guhila Dynasty with Nagada as its capital, witnessed a significant historical trajectory. Despite Alauddin Khilji’s capture of Chittor, Mewar’s capital, in AD 1303, Rana Hammir promptly restored it, solidifying the reign of the Sisodiya Dynasty.
In AD 1335, Rana Hammir (AD 1314-1378) marked the establishment of the second Guhila Dynasty in Chittoor. Following the assassination of Rana Hammir’s grandson, Maharana Mokal, his son Rana Kumbha ascended to the throne of Mewar.

Rulers of Mewar

Prominent rulers of the Mewar region include:

Rana Kumbha (AD 1433-1468)

Also known as Kumbhakarna Singh, Rana Kumbha, the eminent ruler of the Sisodiya Dynasty, engaged in continuous warfare against Gujarat and Malwa.

In AD 1448, he constructed the Vijaya Stambha at Chittorgarh to commemorate his triumph over the combined armies of Malwa and Gujarat led by Mahmud Khalji.

Rana Kumbha expanded his territories, claiming Kota, Bundi, Amber, Narwar, Durgapur, Sambhar, Nagor, Ranthambore, and Ajmer. Contemporary inscriptions and the literary work Ekling Mahatmya document his military achievements.
He penned commentaries on Jayadeva’s Gita-Govinda and Chandi Satakam. The Kirti Stambha, a monumental architectural creation at Chittorgarh, stands as a testament to his reign. Tragically, he was assassinated by his son, Uda, in a bid to ascend the throne.
To secure his kingdom, Rana Kumbha fortified it by constructing five forts: Achalgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Kolana, Vairat, and Maddan.

Numerous temples were erected during his reign, including the Ranakpur Trailokya-Dipaka Jain temple, the Kumbhashyam and Adivarsha temples of Chittorgarh, and the Shantinatha Jain temple.

Kumbha, a skilled Veena player, generously supported musicians and artists in his court, contributing to the cultural milieu. His music treatises, such as Sangeet Raj, Sangeet Mimansa, Sangeet Ratnakar, and Shudprabandha, showcase his deep involvement in the arts.

Rana Sanga (AD 1509-1528)

Born as Rana Sangram Singh and the grandson of Rana Kumbha, he achieved notable victories, defeating Mahmud Khalji II of Malwa and Ibrahim Lodi of Delhi at Ghatoli. However, he faced defeat at the hands of Babur in the Battle of Khanwa in AD 1527.
The Battle of Khanwa in 1527 between Rana Sanga and Babur, and later conflicts between Akbar and Rana Pratap (1567, 1576), marked the onset of a prolonged struggle between the Mughals and the state of Mewar.
In AD 1528, Rana Sanga engaged in the Battle of Chanderi against Babur to aid Medini Rai, who was under attack. Unfortunately, he fell ill and succumbed in the camp.

Kashmir

During the 13th century, Kashmir witnessed the rule of the independent but fragile Hindu Kingdom of Jagadeva (AD 1198-1212).
Despite facing challenges from the Damras, a volatile feudal tribe, Jagadeva managed to suppress their rebellions. However, his successors, Rajadeva (1212-1235), Samgramdeva (1235-1252), and Ramdeva (1252-1256), struggled to assert authority.
Mahmud of Ghazni attempted invasions in 1015 and 1021, but the formidable Himalayas and Hindukush thwarted his plans. In AD 1320, General Dulacha successfully plundered Kashmir, accumulating immense wealth.
Following the murder of Bhautta Prince Rinchan in 1320, Kashmir experienced internal unrest, leading to the establishment of the Shah Mir Dynasty by Shamsuddin in AD 1339.

Rulers of Kashmir

Key rulers of Kashmir include:

Shah Mir (AD 1339-1555)

Islam firmly took root in Kashmir during Shah Mir’s reign, marking him as the first Muslim ruler in 1339. Sultan Sikandar Shah ruled from 1384 to 1413, during which he enforced religious conversions and persecuted Hindus and Brahmans.

Zain-ul-Abidin

Zain-ul-Abidin, also known as the Great Sultan or Bud Shah, governed Kashmir from 1420 to 1470. He put an end to violence against non-Muslims, abolished Jizyah, and welcomed back Hindus who had fled earlier regimes.
Zain-ul-Abidin restored Hindu libraries and temples, defeated Mongols in Ladakh, and gained control of Baltistan (Tibbat-i-Buzurg).
His Minister of Justice and Court Physician, Sriya Bhatt, played a crucial role in his administration. Zain-ul-Abidin’s accomplishments included the construction of Zain Lanka, a man-made island in Wular Lake, where he built his palace and mosque. He married a Hindu Princess from Jammu, promoted shawl-making, and had Kalhana’s Rajatarangini translated to Persian.
With the death of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin in AD 1470, the Shah Mir Dynasty began to crumble due to weak leadership.

Habib Shah, the last ruler of the dynasty, was overthrown in AD 1555 by his Commander Ghazi Chak, leading to the establishment of the Chak Dynasty.

Chak Dynasty (AD 1555-1586)

Muhammad Ghazi Shah Chak founded the Chak Dynasty in AD 1555. Originally from the Gilgit Hunza region’s Dard area, the Chaks thwarted attempts by Babur and Humayun to conquer Kashmir. Yusuf Shah Chak ruled from AD 1579 to 1586. He was taken to meet Akbar for negotiations but was imprisoned and eventually died there.
His demise led to the succession of his son, Yaqub Shah Chak, who assumed the throne of Kashmir. Yaqub Shah Chak endeavored to resist the Mughal army, but the commander Qasim Khan managed to subdue him. Consequently, Akbar seized control of the Kingdom of Kashmir around AD 1586.

Jaunpur

Malik Sarwar established the Jaunpur Dynasty, governing Jaunpur from AD 1394 to 1505.
Exploiting the weakening Delhi Sultanate and Timur’s invasion of Delhi, Malik Sarwar ushered in a distinctive architectural era known as the Sharqi style. Jaunpur earned the moniker “Sheraz of India,” showcasing examples like the Atala Masjid, Jama Masjid, and Lal Darwaja Masjid.

Sharqi Dynasty

Prominent rulers of the Sharqi Dynasty include:

Malik Sarwar (AD 1394-1399)

The founder of the Sharqi Dynasty, Malik Sarwar, secured recognition from the Rai of Jajnagar and the ruler of Lakhnauti during his reign. Upon his demise, his adoptive son Malik Qaranfal ascended the throne, assuming the title of Mubarak Shah.

Mubarak Shah (AD 1399-1402)

Also known as Mallu Iqbal, Mubarak Shah, an influential minister of the Delhi Sultanate, made unsuccessful attempts to reclaim Jaunpur during his rule.

Ibrahim Shah (AD 1402-1440)

Efficiently expanding the kingdom’s territories, Ibrahim Shah Sharqi captured Kannauj in 1406 and briefly held Delhi in 1407, although the attempt ultimately failed. Despite this setback, he successfully acquired Kalpi in 1414.

Under Ibrahim Shah’s rule, Jaunpur thrived as a center of learning, with a focus on promoting Islamic education and establishing numerous colleges.

During Ibrahim Shah’s reign, significant scholarly works on Islamic theology and law, such as the Fatwa-1-Ibrahim Shahi, the Bahar-ul-Mawwaj (Akhbar-us-Salatin), and the Hashlah-i-Hind, were produced.

Under Ibrahim Shah’s rule, the distinguished Atala Masjid, whose foundation was laid by Firuz Shah Tughlaq around AD 1376, reached completion. Additionally, Ibrahim Shah commissioned the construction of the Jhanjhiri Masjid, completed around AD 1430.

Mahmud Shah (AD 1440-1457)

Mahmud Shah (AD 1440-1457), Ibrahim Shah’s elder son, successfully captured Chunar’s Fort but faced failure in capturing Kalpi.
In AD 1452, he attempted to invade Delhi but suffered defeat by Bahlol Lodi.
Subsequently, Mahmud Shah aimed to reclaim Delhi by invading Etawah.
However, he eventually consented to a treaty recognizing Bahlol Lodi’s authority over Shamsabad.
During his rule, around AD 1450, the Lal Darwaja Masjid was erected.

Muhammad Shah (AD 1457-1458)

Muhammad Shah (AD 1457-1458) acknowledged Bahlol Lodi’s authority over Shamsabad and established peace. Unfortunately, his brother Hussain Shah, who had declared himself the Sultan of Jaunpur, assassinated him.

Hussain Shah Sharqi (AD 1458-1505)

Hussain Shah Sharqi (AD 1458-1505), adopting the name Gandharva, significantly contributed to the development of the Khayal style of Hindustani classical music. He composed various ragas, including Jaunpuri basant, Hussaini or Jaunpuri-safari (now known as Jaunpuri), Malhar-Syama, Bhopal-Syarma, and Gaur-Syama.
After Hussain Shah’s demise and Sikander Lodi, who succeeded Bahlol Lodi, annexed Jaunpur, the Sharqi Dynasty met its ultimate downfall.

Bengal

Bengal witnessed the rule of two formidable dynasties – Ilyas Shahi (1342-1481) and Hussain Shahi (1494-1538).
The capitals of Bengal, Pandua, and Gaur were embellished with grand structures.
Bengali flourished as a regional language, while Persian retained its status as the language of administration.

Ilyas Shahi Dynasty

The inception of the Ilyas Shahi Dynasty was marked by Ilyas Shah (1342-1357), originally a noble of Muhammad Tughlaq, serving in Delhi.
Ilyas Shah ascended as a potent ruler, adopting the title of Sikandar-i Sani.
He swiftly captured Tirhut (1339-40), Lakhnauti (1342), and Sonargaon (1353), extending his influence to Banaras, Gorakhpur, and Bahraich. In AD 1357, he conquered Kamrup.
Initiating expeditions to Nepal (1350-51) and Jajnagar, Ilyas Shah prompted Sultan Firuz Shah Tughlaq to personally intervene, leading to a year-long resolution (1353-54).

Ghiyasuddin Azam (AD 1390-1411)

Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah, a renowned Sultan of the Ilyas Shah Dynasty, earned acclaim for his just governance.
Maintaining amicable ties with China, Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah played a crucial role in fostering Bengal’s export trade. The port of Chittagong emerged as a significant trade hub for commerce with China.

Hussain Shahi Dynasty

In AD 1493, Alauddin Hussain Shah (1493-1519) ascended to power, establishing the foundation of the Hussain Shahi Dynasty. He not only quelled the Abyssinian slaves but also pursued an assertive expansionist policy.

During his reign, the Bengal frontiers extended up to Saran and Bihar in the North-West, and Sylhet and Chittagong in the South-East.

In AD 1495, Hussain Shah faced the wrath of Sultan Sikandar Lodi, who was displeased because Hussain Shah had provided shelter to the Sultan of Jaunpur, Hussain Shah.

Nasir-ud-din Nasrat Shah (AD 1518-1533)

Nasir-ud-din Nasrat Shah, son of Alauddin Hussain Shah, married Ibrahim Lodi’s daughter and offered refuge to Afghan Lords. He engaged in negotiations with Babur to safeguard Bengal from a potential Mughal Invasion.
He continued his father’s strategy of territorial expansion.
However, in AD 1526, he confronted Mughal dominance and suffered defeat at the hands of the Ahom Kingdom.

Ghiyas-ud-din Mahmud Shah (AD 1533-1538)

The final Sultan of the Hussain Shahi Dynasty, Ghiyas-ud-din Mahmud Shah, ruled from Sonargaon.
Subsequently, Sher Shah Suri, one of the most capable Suri rulers, took control of Bengal, even expelling the Mughal ruler Humayun from Delhi.

The Mughals established their capital in Dhaka, at the heart of the Eastern Delta, where officials were granted land and settled.

Orissa (Odisha)

During the Delhi Sultanate period, the Ganga Dynasty governed Orissa and its adjoining regions, facing persistent attempts by the Delhi Sultanate to annex Bengal.
In AD 1340, Firuz Shah Tughlaq launched an attack on Orissa, leading to the destruction of the Jagannath Temple of Puri under the rule of King Bhanudeva III of the Ganga Dynasty.

Ganga Dynasty

Between the 11th and 15th centuries, the Chodagangas, known as the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, ruled over Kalinga, encompassing present-day Odisha, parts of West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh, with Kalinganagara as their capital.
Anantavarman Chodagangadeva (AD 1076-1150) founded the dynasty and constructed the renowned Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha.

The Sun Temple at Konark was commissioned by Narsimhadeva, a ruler of the Ganga Dynasty. The dynasty faced a decline during King Bhanudeva’s rule (AD 1414-1434), leading to subsequent governance by the Chalukyas of Vengi.

Gajapati Dynasty

The Hindu Gajapati Dynasty held sway over Kalinga (Orissa), a significant portion of Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and the Eastern and Central regions of Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand from AD 1435 to 1541.
Kapilendra Deva established the Gajapati Dynasty in 1434 following the decline of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Under Kapilendra Deva, the Gajapatis expanded their dominion from the lower Ganga in the North to the Kaveri in the South.
Around AD 1450, he appointed his son Hamvira Deva as the Governor of Kondavidu and Rajahmundry. Hamvira Deva conquered Hampi, the Vijayanagara capital, and compelled its ruler, Mallikarjuna Raya, to pay taxes.
In AD 1512, Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Dynasty invaded Kalinga, resulting in the defeat of the Gajapati Kingdom’s army.
The Gajapati rule represented a glorious period in Odisha’s history. The Gajapati rulers played a key role in the construction of the famous Jagannath Temple and the Sun Temple (Konark).
The Bhakti Movement, under Chaitanya, gained momentum during the Gajapati rule.
However, by the early 16th century, Vijayanagara and Golconda had seized significant portions of the Southern empire, leading to the replacement of the Gajapati Dynasty by the Bhoi Dynasty.

Assam

During that period, Assam witnessed conflicts between two rival factions known as the Lingdors. The Kamata Kingdom (Kamrup) was situated in the West, while the Ahom Kingdom was positioned in the East.

An assault orchestrated by Alaoddin Hussain Shah of Bengal, with the support of the Ahoms, resulted in the devastation of the city of Kamtapur (modern Cooch Behar).

Suhungmung (Svarga Narayana), revered as the greatest Ahom ruler, not only thwarted the Muslim invasion but also expanded his kingdom in all directions.

Ahom Kingdom

Sukaphaa, a Tai prince from Mong Mao (present-day Yunnan province, China), laid the foundation for the Ahom Kingdom in the 13th century.
Over the centuries, the kingdom transformed Hinduism, fostering a diverse and multi-ethnic culture.
The Ahoms grew their territory between 1497 and 1539 under Suhungmung. During this time, a significant figure named Sankardev (1449-1568) lived in Assam. He played a key role in spreading Vaishnavism, a religious belief, in Assam. Sankardev and his followers established monasteries called Sattras, where the Sattriya dance form originated.

Other Regional Kingdoms

Marwar Rao Chunda ruled from AD 1401 to 1421, and he was succeeded by Jodlia. Jodha, who built the Jodhpur Fort, followed him.
Bika, one of the sons of Jodha, founded Bikaner in AD 1465, which was ruled by the Malwa dynasty.
Amber or Amer Dullah Rao was the founder of the Kachhawaha Dynasty, which ruled Amber or Amer during this period. The most famous ruler of this dynasty was Hammir Deva.

Prelims Facts

Which ruler is known to have established Bagh-e-Firdaus and had ‘Udayaraj’ as his court poet? – Mahmud Begada [UPPSC (Pre) 2011]
Who was the ruler who established the independent state in Gujarat? – Zafar Khan [UPPSC (Pre) 2010]
Which great musician was patronized by Bahadur Shah, the ruler of Gujarat? – Udayaraj [UPPSC (Pre) 2003]
‘Mandu victory was the key to the Southern conquest’ Who said this? – Amir Khusrau [MPPSC (Pre) 2020]
Which ruler of Mewar got the Kirti Stambha built? – Rana Kumbha [UKPSC (Pre) 2011]
Which ruler built the Jahaz Mahal located in Mandu? – Ghiyas-ud-din Khalji IMPPSC (Pre) 2017]
The striking feature of Jama Masjid in Kashmir was completed by – Zain-ul-Abidin [IAS (Pre) 1999]
The city of Jaunpur was established in the memory of – Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq [UPPSC (Pre) 2003, UPPSC (Mains) 2004]
Which Shargi ruler is considered to be the father of the Jaunpur style? – Ibrahim Shah Sharqi /BPSC (Pre) 2002)
During the reign of which Shargi ruler, Jaunpur was submerged into Delhi Sultanate? – Hussain Shah Sharqi [UPPSC (Pre) 2003)
Which ruler of Bengal declared himself independent during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq? – Alauddin Ali Shah [UPPSC (Pre) 2006)
Which title did Alauddin Hussain Shah, the ruler of Bengal assume? – Khalifatullah [BPSC (Pre) 2008|
During the reign of which ruler of Kashmir, did Timur invade India? – Sikandar [UPPSC (Pre) 2008)
Which ruler established the Turkish Power in Bengal? – Bakhtiyar Khilji [UPPSC (Pre) 2004
During the reign of which ruler of Bengal, the Portuguese first entered in Bengal? – Nusrat Shah (UPPSC (Prel) 2010
Which title did Kapilendra, the founder of the Suryavanshi Gajapati dynasty adopt? – Gaudeshroara [UKPSC (Per) 2004

UPSC NCERT Practice Questions

1. Consider the following statements regarding Mahmud Begada? UPPSC (Pre) 2011

1. He defeated the Portuguese army.

2. He had established ‘Bagh-e-Firdaus’.

3. ‘Udayaraj” was his court poet.

Which of the above statements) is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(d) 2 and 3

2. Who established the independent state in Gujarat? UPPSC (Pre) 2010

(a) Ahmed Shah

b) Zafar Khan

(d) Badruddin

3. Which great musician was patronized by Bahadur Shah, the ruler of Gujarat? UPPSC (Pre) 2003

(a) Udayaraj

(b) Manjhu Kalawant

(d) Bud Shah

4. Which ruler of Mewar got the Kirti Stambha built? UKPSC (Pre) 2011

(a) Rana Sanga

(b) Rana Kumbha

(d) Maharana Pratap

5. ‘Mandu victory was the key to the Southern conquest.’ who said this? MPPSC (Pre) 2020

(a) Malik Kafur

(b) Sheetal Dev

(d) Amir Khusrau

6. Which of these rulers built the Jahaz Mahal located in Mandu? MPPSC (Pre) 2017

(a) Mahmud Shah Khalji

(b) Alauddin Khilji

(d) Hoshang Shah

7. Which one of the following is not correctly matched? UPPSC (Pre) 2021

Rulers States

(a) Rana Hamir Mewar

(b) Rana Chunda Marwar

(d) Malik Sarwar Khwaja Malwa

9. Jaunpur city was established in the memory of UPPSC (Pre) 2003, UPPSC (Mains) 2004

(a) Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq

(b) Muhammad bin Tughlaq

(d) Akbar

10. Which Shargi ruler is considered to be the father of the ‘Jaunpur style’? BPSC (Pre) 2002

(a) Malik-us-Shargi

(b) Ibrahim Shah Shargi

(d) Imad Shah Shargi

11. During the reign of which Shargi ruler, Jaunpur was submerged into Delhi Sultanate? UPPSC (Pre) 2007, 17

(a) Ibrahim Shah Shargi

(b) Hussain Shah Sharqi

(d) Hussain Shah Ghori

12. Which ruler of Bengal declared himself independent during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq? UPPSC (Pre) 2006

(a) Alauddin Ali Shah

(b) Alauddin Hussain Shah

(d) Muhammad Shah

13. Which title did Alauddin Hussain Shah, the ruler of Bengal assumed? BPSC (Pre) 2008

(a) Satyaveer

(b) Khalifatullah

(d) Zil-e-ilahi

Know Right Answer

1 (c)

2 (b)

3 (a)

4 (b)

5 (d)

6 (c)

7 (d)

8 (b)

9 (b)

10 (b)

11 (a)

12 (b)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the key features of the Rise of Provincial Kingdoms during ancient Indian history?

A1: The Rise of Provincial Kingdoms in ancient India was characterized by the emergence of powerful regional powers outside the traditional centers. Key features include the establishment of independent states, often led by ambitious rulers, and the decentralization of political authority. These kingdoms played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape before the emergence of larger empires.

Q2: Which regions witnessed significant developments in the Rise of Provincial Kingdoms as per UPSC NCERT Notes on Ancient History?

A2: Several regions experienced the Rise of Provincial Kingdoms during ancient Indian history. Notable examples include the Deccan plateau, South India, and parts of North India. The Satavahanas in the Deccan, the Cholas and Cheras in the South, and the Mahajanapadas in the North are examples of provincial kingdoms that gained prominence.

Q3: What were the economic factors contributing to the growth of Provincial Kingdoms according to UPSC NCERT Notes on Ancient History?

A3: Economic factors played a significant role in the Rise of Provincial Kingdoms. Trade routes, agricultural prosperity, and control over key resources contributed to the economic strength of these kingdoms. They often established trade connections with other regions, fostering economic growth and enabling them to maintain military and political dominance.

Q4: How did the Rise of Provincial Kingdoms impact the social and cultural fabric of ancient India?

A4: The Rise of Provincial Kingdoms had a profound impact on the social and cultural aspects of ancient India. Local cultures flourished, and regional languages gained prominence. The patronage of art, literature, and religious practices by these kingdoms contributed to a rich tapestry of diverse traditions. This period witnessed the synthesis and exchange of cultural elements across different regions.

Q5: What challenges did the Provincial Kingdoms face, leading to their decline in ancient Indian history?

A5: Despite their initial successes, Provincial Kingdoms faced challenges such as internal conflicts, invasions, and competition from other rising powers. The absence of a centralized authority sometimes hindered their ability to withstand external pressures. Ultimately, many of these kingdoms succumbed to the rise of larger empires, marking a transition in the political dynamics of ancient India.

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UPSC NCERT Notes – Medieval History – Rise of Provincial Kingdoms