All questions of The Delhi Sultanate for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Alai darwaza is a correct answer.

Balban

Token Currency issued by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq

Token currency was a form of currency issued by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq during his rule in the 14th century. It was a unique form of currency that had no intrinsic value and was made of base metals.

Metal Used for Token Currency

The metal used by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq for issuing token currency was copper. Copper was a common and easily available metal during that time, making it an ideal choice for issuing token currency. The copper coins were issued in large numbers and were used to pay salaries to the army and officials.

Reasons for Issuing Token Currency

There were several reasons why Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq introduced token currency. Some of them are:

1. Shortage of Precious Metals: During Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's reign, there was a shortage of precious metals like gold and silver. Token currency was introduced as an alternative to these metals.

2. Administrative Convenience: The use of token currency made it easier for the government to collect taxes and pay salaries to the army and officials.

3. Control over the Economy: By issuing token currency, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq aimed to have greater control over the economy. The government could control the supply of money and regulate prices.

Impact of Token Currency

The introduction of token currency had both positive and negative effects. Some of the positive impacts were:

1. Increase in Trade: The use of token currency made it easier for traders to conduct business. It led to an increase in trade and commerce.

2. Revenue Collection: The government could collect taxes more efficiently with the use of token currency.

However, there were also negative effects of token currency, such as:

1. Inflation: The over-issuance of token currency led to inflation as the value of the currency decreased.

2. Loss of Confidence: The use of token currency led to a loss of confidence in the government and the currency. People preferred to use other forms of currency like gold and silver.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's issuance of token currency was a unique and interesting approach to currency during his rule. The use of copper for issuing token currency was an ideal choice given the availability of the metal during the time. While there were both positive and negative effects of token currency, it remains an important part of Indian history.

B

A

B) Balban

Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji referred to himself as the Caliph among the given Sultans of Delhi. Here is an explanation of this answer:

Introduction:
The Caliph is the title given to the political and religious successor to the Islamic prophet Muhammad. It signifies the leader of the entire Muslim community and holds great significance in the Islamic world.

Explanation:
Among the given options, Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji regarded himself as the Caliph. Let's understand the reasons behind this:

Establishment of the Khalji Dynasty:
- Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji was a prominent figure in the Khalji dynasty, which ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1290 to 1320.
- He was the founder of the dynasty after overthrowing the last ruler of the Slave dynasty, Jalaluddin Firuz Khalji, in 1290.
- Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji took over as the Sultan of Delhi and proclaimed himself as the Caliph, signifying his authority as both the political and religious leader.

Religious Justification:
- Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji justified his claim of being the Caliph based on his religious beliefs.
- As the Caliph, he aimed to establish his authority not only as a ruler but also as the supreme leader of the Muslim community in India.
- This title gave him the legitimacy to exert control over religious matters and establish Islamic law (Sharia) throughout his kingdom.

Political Implications:
- By assuming the title of Caliph, Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji aimed to consolidate his power and gain the support of the Muslim population.
- The title held immense religious significance and commanded respect from the believers.
- It also helped him to assert his authority over other Muslim rulers in the region, portraying himself as the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad.

Conclusion:
Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji, the founder of the Khalji dynasty, regarded himself as the Caliph. This title not only gave him religious authority but also helped him consolidate his power and establish his legitimacy as the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.

Introduction:
The Sultanate of Delhi was a medieval Muslim kingdom that ruled over parts of the Indian subcontinent from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The sultans of Delhi played a crucial role in shaping the political, social, and cultural landscape of the region. Among the various sultans, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was the first to recruit foreigners as his officers but later opened up all highest offices to all classes of Indians based solely on merit.

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and his Foreign Officers:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq ascended the throne in 1325 and was known for his ambitious and innovative policies. One of his notable actions was the recruitment of foreigners as his officers. He believed that foreigners would be more loyal and efficient in administering the kingdom. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq recruited people from regions like Central Asia, Persia, and Iraq to serve as his officers. These foreigners brought with them different administrative skills and cultural perspectives, which influenced the functioning of the Delhi Sultanate.

The Opening of Highest Offices to Indians:
Despite initially relying on foreigners, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq later realized the importance of indigenous talent and opened up all highest offices to all classes of Indians. This decision was a departure from the norm of the time, as social status and lineage often determined one's eligibility for important positions. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq recognized that merit should be the primary criterion for appointing individuals to high offices.

Reasons for the Change in Policy:
There were several reasons that prompted Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq to change his recruitment policy and open up highest offices to Indians:

1. Administrative Challenges: The recruitment of foreigners faced practical difficulties, including language barriers and cultural differences. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq recognized that Indians who were familiar with local customs and traditions would be better suited to perform administrative tasks effectively.

2. Financial Constraints: The Sultanate faced financial strains due to the expensive maintenance of a large army and ambitious projects like the shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad. Appointing Indians to high offices, who were generally paid lower salaries than foreigners, helped reduce the financial burden.

3. Political Stability: By opening up high offices to Indians, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq aimed to ensure political stability and the loyalty of the local population. This decision helped in fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging among the Indian subjects, strengthening the Sultanate's grip on power.

Conclusion:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's decision to recruit foreigners as officers initially and later open up highest offices to all classes of Indians based on merit reflects his pragmatism and flexibility as a ruler. This policy change aimed to address the practical challenges faced by the Sultanate and promote administrative efficiency and political stability. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's reign marked a significant shift in the recruitment policies of the Delhi Sultanate and contributed to the evolution of the administrative system in medieval India.

Answer is d here

Balban, the ruler of Delhi Sultanate, was the first to order a huge bell to be hung at the gate of his palace so that an aggrieved person could ring it at any time. Let's understand why he did so and the significance of this act.

Background
Balban ruled from 1266 to 1287 AD and was known for his strict and authoritarian rule. He believed in the concept of kingship and emphasized the need for a strong ruler who could maintain law and order in the kingdom. He introduced several administrative reforms to strengthen the central authority and curb the power of nobles.

The Bell
Balban ordered the installation of a huge bell at the gate of his palace in Delhi. The bell was meant to serve as a symbol of justice and accessibility to the common people. Anyone who felt aggrieved or wronged could come to the palace and ring the bell to draw the attention of the king. Balban believed that this act would help him connect with the people and address their grievances.

Significance
The installation of the bell was a significant act in the history of Delhi Sultanate. It symbolized Balban's commitment to justice and accessibility. By allowing the common people to approach him directly, Balban tried to bridge the gap between the ruler and the ruled. This act also helped to promote the idea of kingship and establish the authority of the central government.

Conclusion
Balban's act of ordering a huge bell to be hung at the gate of his palace was a remarkable move. It showed his concern for the welfare of his subjects and his willingness to listen to their grievances. This act also helped to establish the authority of the central government and promote the idea of kingship.

Answer:

During Firuz Tughlaq's long reign of 40 years, there was only one rebellion by a noble. The noble who rebelled against Firuz Tughlaq was Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid.

Rebellion by Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid:
Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid was a powerful noble and the governor of Multan during Firuz Tughlaq's reign. He rebelled against Firuz Tughlaq in 1351 AD, towards the end of Firuz Tughlaq's reign.

Reasons for the Rebellion:
1. Oppression and Tyranny: Firuz Tughlaq was known for his oppressive and tyrannical rule. He imposed heavy taxes on the people, which burdened them. Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid, being a governor, may have witnessed the suffering of the people and decided to rebel against Firuz Tughlaq's unjust rule.

2. Power Struggle: Nobles during the Delhi Sultanate often engaged in power struggles to increase their own influence and authority. Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid may have rebelled in an attempt to gain more power and control over his region.

3. Dissatisfaction with Firuz Tughlaq's Administration: Firuz Tughlaq's administration was known for its inefficiency and corruption. Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid, being a governor, may have been dissatisfied with Firuz Tughlaq's administration and rebelled to voice his discontent.

Outcome of the Rebellion:
The rebellion by Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid was suppressed by Firuz Tughlaq's forces. Firuz Tughlaq sent an army led by his son-in-law, Malik Maqbul, to quell the rebellion. Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid was defeated and captured, and he was brought back to Delhi as a prisoner.

Firuz Tughlaq pardoned Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid and allowed him to retain his governorship of Multan. However, this rebellion marked a significant challenge to Firuz Tughlaq's authority and showcased the discontent among the nobles during his reign.

Conclusion:
While Firuz Tughlaq's reign of 40 years was relatively stable, there was one rebellion by a noble. Malik Shamsuddin Damghanid's rebellion was driven by factors such as oppression, power struggles, and dissatisfaction with Firuz Tughlaq's administration. This rebellion was suppressed by Firuz Tughlaq, but it highlighted the challenges he faced in maintaining control over his empire.

C

Introduction:
Nauroz is a famous Persian festival that is celebrated to mark the beginning of the new year. It is an ancient festival that dates back to the time of the Persian Empire. The festival is celebrated on the first day of the Persian calendar, which usually falls on March 21st.

Who introduced the festival of Nauroz?
The festival of Nauroz was introduced by Balban, who was a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. Balban was a Persianized Turkic ruler who was known for his love of Persian culture and traditions. He is credited with introducing the festival of Nauroz to the people of India.

Significance of Nauroz:
Nauroz is a festival that is celebrated by people of various religions and cultures. It is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, and it is believed that the festival brings good luck and prosperity for the year ahead. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and involves various traditions and rituals.

Celebration of Nauroz:
The celebration of Nauroz involves various traditions and rituals. People clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and other decorations. They wear new clothes and prepare special dishes to share with family and friends. The festival is also marked by the exchange of gifts and greetings.

Conclusion:
Nauroz is a festival that has been celebrated for centuries and is an important part of Persian culture and tradition. The festival was introduced to India by Balban, who was a Persianized Turkic ruler. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and involves various traditions and rituals.

The correct answer is b) Ala-ud-din Khalji.

Ala-ud-din Khalji was a powerful and influential sultan of the Khalji dynasty who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1296 to 1316 AD. He is known for his strong and autocratic rule. To maintain his power and control, he took several measures, including banning banquets and assemblies and establishing an extensive spy network throughout the country.

Below are the details explaining why Ala-ud-din Khalji banned banquets and assemblies and peppered the country with his spies:

**Banquets and Assemblies Ban:**
- Ala-ud-din Khalji banned banquets and assemblies as a measure to prevent conspiracies against his rule.
- Banquets and assemblies were often attended by nobles, courtiers, and other influential people who could potentially plot against the sultan.
- By banning these gatherings, Khalji aimed to eliminate the possibility of secret meetings and discussions that could undermine his authority.
- This ban helped him to control and monitor the activities of the nobles and prevent any organized opposition.

**Establishment of Spy Network:**
- Ala-ud-din Khalji established an extensive spy network in order to gather information and keep a close watch on his subjects.
- He appointed spies and informers known as "Barids" who were responsible for collecting intelligence from different parts of the kingdom.
- These spies were spread throughout the country and reported directly to the sultan.
- The spies provided valuable information about any potential conspiracies, rebellions, or threats to the sultan's rule.
- The intelligence gathered by the spies helped Khalji to take preemptive actions against his enemies and maintain a strong grip on power.

**Reasons for these measures:**
- Ala-ud-din Khalji faced several challenges to his rule, including internal opposition from powerful nobles, external invasions, and rebellions in different parts of the kingdom.
- He implemented these measures to consolidate his power, suppress any dissent, and prevent any organized resistance against his rule.
- By banning banquets and assemblies, he eliminated the opportunities for nobles and other influential people to gather and plan against him.
- The establishment of a spy network helped him to identify and neutralize potential threats before they could become significant challenges to his rule.

In conclusion, Ala-ud-din Khalji banned banquets and assemblies and established a spy network as measures to maintain his power, suppress dissent, and prevent conspiracies against his rule. These measures were aimed at consolidating his authority and ensuring stability in the Delhi Sultanate.

D

A

Sorry, I cannot answer the question without additional context. Can you please provide more information about which ordinance you are referring to and in which jurisdiction it was issued?

Tughlaq architecture and Sloping walls

Tughlaq architecture is a significant architectural style that was developed during the Tughlaq dynasty in India. The Tughlaq dynasty was established by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in 1320, and it lasted until 1412. The Tughlaq dynasty was known for its grand architectural designs and innovative construction techniques.

One of the most striking features of Tughlaq architecture was sloping walls or batter. The sloping walls of Tughlaq buildings gave them a unique look and also served a functional purpose. The sloping walls helped to distribute the weight of the building more evenly and also made the structure more stable. The sloping walls were also designed to make the building more resistant to earthquakes.

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and Firuz Tughlaq

While sloping walls were a significant feature of Tughlaq architecture, they were absent in the buildings of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and Firuz Tughlaq. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was the second ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, and he ruled from 1325 to 1351. He was known for his eccentricities and his unsuccessful attempts to shift the capital of the empire from Delhi to Daulatabad.

Firuz Tughlaq was the last ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, and he ruled from 1351 to 1388. Firuz Tughlaq was known for his administrative reforms and his patronage of the arts, but his architectural designs did not include sloping walls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sloping walls were a significant feature of Tughlaq architecture, and they were absent in the buildings of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and Firuz Tughlaq. The sloping walls of Tughlaq buildings gave them a unique look and also served a functional purpose, making the structure more stable and earthquake-resistant.

Appointment of Envoy by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi, appointed an envoy to the court of the Chinese emperor during his reign.

Identification of the Envoy

The envoy appointed by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq in the court of the Chinese emperor was Ibn Batuta.

About Ibn Batuta

Ibn Batuta was a Moroccan explorer who traveled extensively throughout the Islamic world in the 14th century. He is known for his extensive travels and his detailed accounts of the places he visited.

Ibn Batuta's Mission in China

Ibn Batuta's mission in China was to establish trade relations between China and India. He spent several years in China and was impressed by the country's advanced technology and culture. He wrote extensively about his experiences in China, which provide valuable insights into the country's history and culture.

Conclusion

Ibn Batuta was appointed as the envoy of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq in the court of the Chinese emperor. He played a significant role in establishing trade relations between China and India and his travels provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the Islamic world.

C

Introduction:
The Mongols launched a series of attacks on the Delhi Sultanate during the years 1299-1301. These attacks were aimed at expanding the Mongol Empire and gaining control over the prosperous region of Northern India. During this period, the Sultan of Delhi was Alauddin Khilji, who played a crucial role in defending the Delhi Sultanate against the Mongol invasions.

Alauddin Khilji's Reign:
Alauddin Khilji ruled as the Sultan of Delhi from 1296 to 1316. He was the second ruler of the Khilji dynasty and is known for his military prowess and administrative reforms. Alauddin Khilji is often considered one of the most powerful and successful rulers of the Delhi Sultanate.

The Mongol Invasions:
The Mongols, under the leadership of their commander, Qutlugh Khwaja, launched a series of invasions on the Delhi Sultanate during the years 1299-1301. These invasions were part of the Mongol Empire's larger campaign to expand its territories and establish dominance over various regions.

Alauddin Khilji's Response:
Alauddin Khilji responded to the Mongol invasions with strategic planning and military strength. He realized the threat posed by the Mongols and took several measures to defend the Delhi Sultanate against their attacks.

Strengthening the Army:
Alauddin Khilji strengthened the Delhi Sultanate's army by introducing various reforms. He increased the number of soldiers, improved their training, and enhanced the overall military infrastructure. These measures helped the Sultanate to withstand the Mongol attacks.

Fortification of Cities:
To protect his kingdom from the Mongol invasions, Alauddin Khilji fortified several cities, including Delhi, Siri, and Kilokri. He built strong fortifications, walls, and moats around these cities to make them more defensible. These fortifications acted as a deterrent against Mongol attacks and provided security to the Sultanate.

Strategic Alliances:
Alauddin Khilji also formed strategic alliances with neighboring kingdoms to counter the Mongol threat. He established diplomatic relations with the Rajput kingdoms of Ranthambore and Chittor, as well as with the Yadava dynasty of Devagiri. These alliances helped in strengthening the overall defense against the Mongols.

Conclusion:
Alauddin Khilji's reign as the Sultan of Delhi coincided with the Mongol invasions of 1299-1301. His strategic planning, military reforms, fortifications, and alliances played a crucial role in defending the Delhi Sultanate against the Mongol attacks. Alauddin Khilji's leadership and military prowess ensured that the Delhi Sultanate successfully repelled the Mongol invasions during this period.

Answer:

Introduction:
The removal of one's name from the Khutba and the coins was a significant step in the history of medieval India. The ruler who took this step was Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1325 to 1351.

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was one of the most controversial rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. He was known for his intelligence, education, and administrative skills, but he was also known for his impulsive decisions and erratic behavior. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was a patron of learning and arts, and he was a great philosopher himself.

The decision to remove his name from the Khutba and the coins:
In the later part of his reign, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq ordered his name to be removed from the Khutba and the coins, and instead, he inscribed the name of Khalifa. This decision was taken by him to show his loyalty to the Khalifa, who was the spiritual head of the Islamic world.

The reasons behind this decision:
There were several reasons behind this decision taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. Some of the reasons were:

1. To appease the Khalifa: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was a devout Muslim, and he wanted to show his loyalty to the Khalifa, who was the spiritual head of the Islamic world. By removing his name from the Khutba and the coins, he wanted to show that he was subservient to the Khalifa.

2. To assert his authority: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was a powerful ruler, and he wanted to assert his authority over his subjects. By removing his name from the Khutba and the coins, he wanted to show that he was not above the law and that he was subject to the authority of the Khalifa.

3. To promote unity: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq wanted to promote unity among the Muslims of the Delhi Sultanate. By removing his name from the Khutba and the coins, he wanted to show that he was not a divisive figure and that he was committed to the unity of the Muslim community.

The impact of this decision:
The decision taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq to remove his name from the Khutba and the coins had a significant impact on the Delhi Sultanate. It helped to promote unity among the Muslims of the Delhi Sultanate and showed that the ruler was not above the law. However, it also led to confusion and chaos among the people who were not used to such a change.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's decision to remove his name from the Khutba and the coins was a significant step in the history of medieval India. It helped to promote unity and showed that the ruler was subject to the authority of the Khalifa. However, it also led to confusion and chaos among the people, and it remains a controversial decision to this day.

Nagara Style Architecture:

The tall curved spiral roof and the mandapam (ante-room) were features of the Nagara style of architecture. It is a style of architecture that is typical of North India, particularly in the regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar.

Features of Nagara Style Architecture:

1. Shikhara: The shikhara or the tower is the most prominent feature of Nagara style architecture. It is a tall and curvaceous structure that is often adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

2. Mandapa: The mandapa is an ante-room that is often placed in front of a temple. It is a pillared hall that is used for various religious and cultural activities.

3. Garbhagriha: The garbhagriha or the sanctum sanctorum is the innermost chamber of the temple where the main deity is placed.

4. Amalaka: The amalaka is a disk-shaped structure that is placed on top of the shikhara. It is often decorated with carvings and sculptures.

5. Kalasha: The kalasha is a pot-shaped structure that is placed on top of the amalaka. It is considered to be a symbol of prosperity and abundance.

6. Pradakshina Patha: The pradakshina patha is a circumambulatory path that is present around the garbhagriha. It is used for circumambulating the main deity during the worship.

Conclusion:

Thus, the Nagara style of architecture is a unique and beautiful form of architecture that is known for its tall, curvaceous towers and intricate carvings and sculptures. It is a style that is deeply rooted in Indian culture and tradition and continues to inspire architects and designers even today.