‘The king was freed from his people and they from their king.’ On who...
This statement was quoted by Badauni in his work ‘Muntkhab-ul-lubad’ on the death of ‘Muhammad-bin Tughlaq’.
‘The king was freed from his people and they from their king.’ On who...
The king was freed from his people and they from their king.
The statement "The king was freed from his people and they from their king" was made by Badauni, a 16th-century historian and chronicler, on the death of Muhammad-bin-Tughlak, also known as Sultan Muhammad Tughluq.
Background:
Sultan Muhammad Tughluq ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1325 to 1351. He was known for his ambitious and controversial policies, which often led to disastrous consequences for his kingdom and the people. He was known for his centralized control and attempts at administrative reforms.
Explanation:
1. Sultan Muhammad Tughluq's reign:
During Sultan Muhammad Tughluq's reign, he introduced several radical administrative reforms, including the shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad (present-day Maharashtra) and the introduction of a token currency called 'Tanka'. These policies were aimed at consolidating his control and centralizing the administration, but they had severe repercussions.
2. Shifting of the capital:
The shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad was a disastrous decision. It resulted in the displacement of thousands of people, causing immense suffering and loss. The logistics of moving the entire capital proved to be a logistical nightmare, leading to the death of many people due to hunger, disease, and exhaustion.
3. Introduction of token currency:
Sultan Muhammad Tughluq's introduction of the token currency 'Tanka' was also a disastrous move. The new currency was not widely accepted, leading to economic chaos and loss of confidence in the monetary system. Merchants and traders suffered significant losses, and the common people faced economic hardships.
4. Rebellion and unrest:
The disastrous policies of Sultan Muhammad Tughluq led to widespread rebellion and unrest throughout his kingdom. The people were burdened with heavy taxes and oppressive policies, leading to a breakdown of law and order. The Sultan's attempts to control and micromanage every aspect of the administration further alienated him from his people.
5. Death of Sultan Muhammad Tughluq:
When Sultan Muhammad Tughluq died, Badauni made the comment, "The king was freed from his people and they from their king." This statement reflects the general sentiment of relief and liberation felt by the people upon the death of a ruler whose policies had caused immense suffering and chaos.
Conclusion:
Badauni's comment highlights the disastrous reign of Sultan Muhammad Tughluq and the relief felt by the people upon his death. The shifting of the capital and the introduction of a token currency brought immense suffering to the people, leading to rebellion and unrest. Badauni's comment captures the sentiment of freedom and liberation from a ruler who had failed to govern effectively.