The Slave Dynasty: The Delhi Sultanate | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Background of the Mamluk Dynasty

• Meaning and Origin: Mamluk means "owned" and refers to a prominent military aristocracy developed in the Islamic Empire of the Abbasid Caliphate in the 9th century AD. Despite being slaves, Mamluks were highly valued by their masters.
• Major Sultans: The three major Sultans of the Mamluk Dynasty were Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Shams-ud-din Iltutmish, and Ghiyas-ud-din Balban.
• Qutb-ud-din Aibak: The first ruler of the Mamluk Dynasty, reigning from 1206 to 1210.
• Iltutmish: Succeeded Aibak and ruled from 1211 to 1236, establishing a strong kingdom.
• Ghiyas-ud-din Balban: The last effective ruler, governing from 1266 to 1286, known for his attention to governance and military strength.

Important Rulers of the Mamluk Dynasty

• Background: Aibak was an Indian general in the Ghurid army, living from 1150 to 1210 CE.
• Rise to Power: After Muhammad Ghori's death in 1206, Aibak fought for control of Ghurid territories in northwestern India.
• Challenges and Achievements: Faced numerous revolts by Rajputs and other Indian chiefs. Commissioned the Delhi Qutb Minar and the Ajmer Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra.
• Succession: Succeeded by Aram Shah and later by his son-in-law Iltutmish.

Iltutmish (1211-1236 AD)

• Early Life: Initially a slave purchased by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Iltutmish rose to prominence, becoming amir-e-shikar and later governor of Gwalior and Baran.
• Accession: Defeated Aram Shah in 1211 to become Sultan.
• Contributions: Completed the Qutb Minar and built the Sultan Ghari funerary monument. His tomb is in Mehrauli's Qutub complex.

Razia Sultana (1236-1240 AD)

• Background: Daughter of Iltutmish, born to a Turkic slave.
• Reign: The first and last woman to occupy the throne of Delhi among Muslims and Hindus.
• Achievements: Known for her archery and horse riding skills. Managed Delhi during her father's military campaigns.

Ghiyas-ud-din Balban (1266-1287 AD)

• Early Life: Born into a Turkish family, sold as a slave, and impressed Iltutmish with his talent.
• Career: Held various positions including Amir-i-Shikar under Raziya Sultana. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Delhi, including the deposition of Raziya and the ascension of Nasir-ud-din Mahmud.
• Governance: Focused on strengthening the military and administration.

Administration of the Mamluk Dynasty

• Inherited System: Mamluks adopted their administrative system from the Ayyubid kingdom.
• Sultan's Role: The Sultan was the head of state with powers to declare war, levy taxes, and ensure food distribution.
• Iqta System: Introduced by Iltutmish, it involved granting lands to army officials instead of paying them in cash and food.
• Royal Court: Managed by the ustadar, the Sultan's chief of staff, who planned daily operations and managed the Sultan's budget.

Decline of the Mamluk Dynasty

• Last Sultan: Muiz-ud-din Muhammad Qaiqabad, the last Mamluk Sultan, ruled from 1287 to 1290. His reign was marked by neglect and disorganization.
• Weak Leadership: Frequent Mongol invasions and internal strife weakened the dynasty.
• End of Dynasty: The Mamluk dynasty ended with Qaiqabad's death, succeeded by the Khilji dynasty under Jalal ud din Firuz Khalji.

Conclusion

• Foundation: Qutb-ud-din Aibak is regarded as the true founder of Turkish rule in India.
• Prominent Rulers: Among the 10 monarchs of the Mamluk dynasty, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Iltutmish, and Ghiyas-ud-din Balban are considered the greatest Sultans.
• Legacy: The achievements of these Sultans elevated the significance of the Delhi Sultanate. The dynasty was ultimately overtaken by the Khilji dynasty.