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Slave Dynasty in India 1206-1290 CE, Origin, History, Contribution

Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk dynasty, ruled Delhi Sultanate (1206-1290 CE). Founded by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak, it shaped Indian history with significant architectural and cultural contributions.

Abhishek Kumar15 Jul, 2024

Slave Dynasty: The Delhi Sultanate was initially governed by the Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk dynasty. Qutb-ud-Din Aibak founded the Mamluk empire in Delhi, with "Mamluk" meaning "owned" in Arabic. Originating in the Abbasid Caliphate around the 9th century CE, Mamluks were a powerful military class in Islamic regions like Egypt, where they held significant governmental control. Despite being called "slaves," they were skilled commanders and soldiers who dedicated their lives to their masters. This article delves into the historical significance of the Slave Dynasty in India.

Slave Dynasty Origin

The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, was established by Qutb ud-Din Aibak and ruled from 1206 to 1290 over the Delhi Sultanate. This period marked the first dynasty of Delhi's rule. The Mamluk Empire ended in 1290 when Jalal-ud-din-Firuz Khilji overthrew Muiz ud din Qaiqabad, beginning the Khilji dynasty's reign. The term "Mamluk," meaning "owned," refers to a powerful military class that emerged in the Abbasid Caliphate in the 9th century AD. In regions like Egypt, Iraq, and India, Mamluks wielded significant military and governmental influence, despite their status as slaves. Valued for their military prowess, many Mamluks served as soldiers and generals under their masters. Qutb-ud-Din Aibak founded the Mamluk Dynasty in Delhi, setting the stage for subsequent dynasties in the Delhi Sultanate's history.

Slave Dynasty Founder

Qutb-ud-Din Aibak founded the Slave Dynasty as its first Sultan in 1206 AD, ruling over Delhi. Originally from a Turkish family in Central Asia, he was captured and taken to Muhammad Ghori, ruler of Ghur in Afghanistan. Impressed by Aibak's talents, Ghori promoted him to commander, entrusting him with significant responsibilities. After Ghori's assassination, Aibak declared himself Sultan of Delhi. He initiated the construction of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque in Delhi, one of the earliest Islamic structures in India, and commenced work on the iconic Qutub Minar. Known for his benevolence, he earned the title "Lakh Bash," meaning benefactor of lakhs. Aibak passed away in 1210, succeeded by Aram Shah as the second ruler of the Slave Dynasty.

Slave Dynasty Rulers List

Here is the Slave Dynasty rulers list in a table format:

Slave Dynasty Rulers List
Name of the Ruler	Timeline
Qutb ud-Din Aibak	1206-1210 AD
Aram Shah	1210-1211 AD
Iltutmish	1211-1236 AD
Rukn-ud-din Feroze	1236 AD
Razia al-Din	1236-1240 AD
Muiz-ud-din Bahram	1240-1242 AD
Ala-ud-din Masud	1242-1246 AD
Nasiruddin Mahmud	1246-1266 AD
Ghiyas-ud-din Balban	1266-1286 AD
Muiz-ud-din Muhammad Qaiqabad	1286-1290 AD

Slave Dynasty and Qutb ud-Din Aibak

Qutb-ud-Din Aibak met an unexpected end in Lahore in 1210 AD while playing Chaugan, a form of Polo. Following his death, Aram Shah, believed to be Aibak's son, assumed leadership but proved ineffective. Amidst this instability, a group of nobles supported Shamsuddin Iltutmish as the new ruler of Northern India. Iltutmish, Aibak's son-in-law from Central Asia, emerged as the most renowned ruler of the Slave Dynasty. He relocated the capital from Lahore to Delhi, significantly bolstering the city's prominence. During Iltutmish's 25-year reign, the Delhi Sultanate expanded both territorially and socially. His era witnessed significant advancements, including societal welfare reforms. Notably, Razia Sultana, Iltutmish's daughter, made history as Delhi's first and only female ruler. Also known as Razia-al-Din, she faced challenges from her half-brother Rukn-ud-din Firuz, who briefly succeeded Iltutmish before being deposed by a group favoring Razia's ascension. Razia Sultana's reign was marked by her capable leadership and impartial governance, earning her widespread admiration. She married Malik Ikhtiar-ud-din Altunia of Bathinda. However, her rule faced opposition, ultimately leading to her downfall orchestrated by her brother Muizuddin Bahram Shah. Nasir-ud-din-Mahmud, born in Turkey and purchased as a slave by Iltutmish, succeeded Bahram Shah. Known as Bahauddin, he continued the dynasty's military campaigns and administrative reforms. Upon Nasir-ud-din-Mahmud's death without a male heir, Ghiyas-ud-din Balban ascended as the Sultan. Balban's rule was characterized by strict governance and a robust spy network to control nobility. His administration was marked by Persian cultural influences, notably enhancing the celebration of Navroz in India. Balban's era solidified the Slave Dynasty's rule, setting the stage for subsequent developments in Delhi Sultanate history.

Slave Dynasty and Iltutmish

Aram Shah's ineffective rule led nobles to invite Shamsuddin Iltutmish to govern, consolidating power in Delhi. Iltutmish, son of Aibak, oversaw Northern India's Gurid region and shifted Delhi's capital from Lahore, solidifying his status as a prominent leader of the Slave Dynasty. Under Iltutmish's reign, his troops expanded into Bangladesh in 1210 and Bihar by 1225. He navigated conflicts with the Mongols, King Khwarazm, and Qabacha, securing his empire against Rajput and Mongol incursions. Notably, he halted Genghis Khan's 1221 invasion and commissioned the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and Qutb Minar Mosque in Delhi. His governance enhanced Delhi's infrastructure, including water systems and administrative facilities. Iltutmish introduced the silver tanka and copper jital as official currencies and implemented the Iqtadari system, dividing the kingdom into Iqtas for nobles in exchange for services. Concerned about his son's capability, Iltutmish designated his daughter, Razia Sultana, as his successor upon his death in 1236.

Mamluk Dynasty and Razia Sultana

Razia Sultana, born in 1205 to Iltutmish, was a notable figure in Delhi's history. She became Delhi's first and only Muslim female monarch, also known as Razia al-Din. Following her father's death, her half-brother Rukn-ud-din Firuz briefly held the throne until his assassination six months later. Recognizing Razia's leadership abilities, the nobles installed her as the ruler of Delhi. She is remembered for her effective and fair governance. Razia Sultana married Malik Ikhtiar-ud-din Altunia, the governor of Bathinda. Unfortunately, she met her end allegedly at the hands of her brother's soldiers. Upon her death, her brother Muizuddin Bahram Shah succeeded her as the ruler of the Mamluk dynasty.

Slave Dynasty and Ghiyas-ud-din Balban

Ghiyas-ud-din Balban, who succeeded Razia Sultana, was a prominent leader of the Mamluk dynasty. He was the ninth ruler and originally named Bahauddin, born in Turkey and purchased as a slave by Iltutmish. Rapidly promoted due to his military prowess, he eventually became Sultan after Nasir-ud-din Mahmud's death, as Mahmud had no male heirs. Balban's rule saw significant reforms in military and administrative governance, positioning him among the most influential rulers of the Delhi Sultanate after Iltutmish and Alauddin Khalji. Known for his strictness and strong allegiance to monarchy, he established a stringent court that emphasized discipline and loyalty to the Sultan. Balban maintained control over his nobility through an efficient spy network, ensuring stability in his realm. He also introduced cultural influences like the Persian festival of Navroz during his reign, contributing to the cultural diversity of India. Under his leadership, there was a notable increase in conversions to Islam, particularly in the Punjab region. Balban's grandson, Qiqubad, succeeded him but the end of the Mamluk dynasty came with Qaiqubad's death in 1290, followed by the ascension and subsequent demise of his young son Shamsuddin Kayumars at the hands of Jalal ud-Din Firuz Khalji, marking the transition to the Khalji dynasty.

Slave Dynasty Contribution

The Slave Dynasty Sultans made significant contributions to art and architecture during their rule. Qutb-ud-Din Aibak, the founder, initiated the construction of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque in Delhi and also built the Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra in Ajmer. He oversaw the beginning phases of the Qutb Minar's construction, a towering monument that remains an architectural marvel. Under Iltutmish's reign, the Qutb Minar was completed, marking a pinnacle of architectural achievement. He introduced the Tanka, a new coinage system, which facilitated trade and commerce across the Sultanate. Iltutmish also supported the growth of the Slave dynasty, laying a strong foundation for subsequent rulers. Ghiyas-ud-din Balban, known for his administrative acumen, further enhanced the governance structure. Renowned for his regal demeanor and devout faith, he wore traditional attire in the presence of his courtiers, symbolizing his authority and religious dedication. During Balban's era, poetry and artwork flourished, showcasing cultural richness and creativity fostered under his rule. The Chalisa, or the "Forty," was a prominent military organization during the Slave dynasty. Comprising elite warriors known as "Chalagans," they were instrumental in Iltutmish's governance and military campaigns. Over time, however, their influence waned as they began to exert undue political power, eventually styling themselves as deputies of the Sultan, which contributed to political instability within the dynasty.

Mamluk Dynasty Last Ruler

Jalal-ud-din Firoz Khilji ended the rule of the Slave Dynasty by overthrowing Muiz ud din Qaiqabad, its final ruler, in 1290. The Slave Dynasty, which began in AD 1206, came to an end after nearly a century of governance under Muiz-ud-din Muhammad Qaiqabad.

Decline of Slave Dynasty

The Mamluk dynasty's decline unfolded over a century, paving the way for the emergence of the Khaljis. Several factors contributed to the downfall of the Slave Dynasty. The Sultans of the dynasty, originally seen as outsiders, faced challenges in uniting India's diverse populace. Hindu discontent grew, leading to plots against Muslim rule. This internal strife created instability, making it difficult for the Sultanate to maintain control. Under the autocratic military rule, centralized authority was wielded heavily from the capital. Provincial governors had little autonomy, acting more as puppets of the Sultans and relying on their compliance for court favor. This system affected their positions and fortunes significantly. Additionally, the divine right doctrine, where Sultans claimed their authority as bestowed by God, faced opposition, further weakening the dynasty's legitimacy. Ultimately, these internal conflicts and challenges from within India's diverse communities contributed to the collapse of the Mamluk dynasty. This paved the way for new rulers like the Khaljis to rise and reshape the political landscape of medieval India.

Slave Dynasty FAQs

What is the Slave Dynasty?

The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk dynasty, was the first Muslim dynasty to rule over Delhi Sultanate from 1206 to 1290 CE.

Who founded the Slave Dynasty?

Qutb-ud-Din Aibak founded the Slave Dynasty in Delhi after being appointed by his master, Muhammad Ghori.

What does "Mamluk" mean?

"Mamluk" means "owned" in Arabic. It refers to a class of military slaves who rose to power in various Islamic regions, including India.

Who was the most renowned ruler of the Slave Dynasty?

Iltutmish, known for his administrative reforms and expansion of the Delhi Sultanate, was the most renowned ruler of the Slave Dynasty.

What were some notable achievements of the Slave Dynasty?

The Slave Dynasty contributed significantly to art and architecture, with Qutb-ud-Din Aibak initiating the construction of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Qutb Minar in Delhi.

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Slave Dynasty Origin

Slave Dynasty Founder

Slave Dynasty Rulers List

Here is the Slave Dynasty rulers list in a table format:

Slave Dynasty Rulers List
Name of the Ruler	Timeline
Qutb ud-Din Aibak	1206-1210 AD
Aram Shah	1210-1211 AD
Iltutmish	1211-1236 AD
Rukn-ud-din Feroze	1236 AD
Razia al-Din	1236-1240 AD
Muiz-ud-din Bahram	1240-1242 AD
Ala-ud-din Masud	1242-1246 AD
Nasiruddin Mahmud	1246-1266 AD
Ghiyas-ud-din Balban	1266-1286 AD
Muiz-ud-din Muhammad Qaiqabad	1286-1290 AD