Tughlaq Dynasty ( 1320–1414)

by

The Tughlaq dynasty ( 1320–1414) was an important dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate , founded by Giyasuddin Tughlaq. This dynasty was the third major dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate and ruled for about a century. The rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty are known for their administrative reforms , architecture , and political stability.

Major rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty:

  1. Giyasuddin Tughlaq ( 1320-1325)
    1. Founder of the Tughlaq dynasty.
    1. He expanded the boundaries of the Delhi Sultanate and carried out administrative reforms.
    1. Got Tughlaqabad constructed.
    1. He died in an accident (possibly a conspiracy) in 1325 .
  2. Muhammad bin Tughlaq ( 1325-1351)
    1. Son of Giyasuddin Tughlaq.
    1. A learned ruler , but his policies failed.
    1. Administrative Use:
      1. Shifting of the capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad).
      1. Circulation of copper and iron coins.
    1. He had to face criticism due to the failure of these plans.
  3. Firoz Shah Tughlaq ( 1351-1388)
    1. A period of peace and stability.
    1. Made many social and administrative reforms.
    1. Constructed roads , canals , and mosques.
    1. Focused on reforming the tax system and the welfare of farmers.
  4. Nasiruddin Muhammad Shah ( 1388–1394)
    1. Firoz Shah came after Tughlaq.
    1. Weak ruler , under whose rule the decline of the dynasty began.
  5. Mahmud Tughlaq ( 1394-1414)
    1. The last ruler.
    1. The Delhi Sultanate weakened after the invasion of Timur Lang ( 1398) .
    1. Ultimately the Tughlaq dynasty came to an end.

Features of the Tughlaq dynasty:

  • Architecture : Tughlaqabad , Delhi fort and other buildings are built in Tughlaq style.
  • Administrative Reforms : Giyasuddin and Firoz Shah tried to strengthen the administration.
  • Social Policy : Firoz Shah strictly enforced Jaziya (non-Muslim tax).
  • Reasons for downfall : Invasion of Timurlang , weak successors , and political instability.

Ending:

The Tughlaq dynasty ended in 1414 and was succeeded by the Sayyid dynasty. The Tughlaq dynasty gave a new direction to the Delhi Sultanate , but the failure of their policies and external attacks led to their downfall.

Major Rulers of the Tughlaq Dynasty 

The Tughlaq dynasty ( 1320-1414) was an important and influential period of the Delhi Sultanate , whose major rulers made significant contributions in the field of administrative reform , empire expansion , and architecture. Here is a detailed description of the major rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty:

1. Giyasuddin Tughlaq ( 1320-1325)

Reign :

Giyasuddin Tughlaq , earlier known as Ghazi Malik , founded the Tughlaq dynasty by overthrowing the Khilji dynasty in 1320. He was a Turkish slave who rose to power through his bravery and resourcefulness.

Major Achievements :

  • Establishment of power :
    • By establishing the Tughlaq dynasty, he gave new power and stability to the Delhi Sultanate.
  • Expansion of the Empire :
    • Conquered Bengal and Orissa.
  • architecture :
    • Tughlaqabad was built in Delhi. This city was a symbol of his administrative and military vision.
  • Administrative Reforms :
    • He organised the agricultural tax system and took care of the interests of farmers.

Death :

In 1325 , he died in an unusual accident. Some historians believe it was a conspiracy of his son Muhammad bin Tughlaq.

2. Muhammad bin Tughlaq ( 1325-1351)

Reign :

Muhammad bin Tughlaq , son of Giyasuddin Tughlaq , was the most controversial and erudite ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. He is famous for his extravagant plans and experiments , which often failed.

Major Achievements and Policies :

  1. Change of capital :
    1. Shifted the capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad).
    1. Objective: Greater control over the southern part of the empire.
    1. Result: This move failed as the journey and return to Delhi caused huge losses to both the public and the state.
  2. Improvement in the coinage system :
    1. Issued copper and iron coins as currency.
    1. Objective: Economic reform and solving the money problem.
    1. Result: This policy failed as counterfeit coins increased.
  3. Military operations :
    1. Made attempts to conquer Khurasan , Gujarat , and Kashmir.
    1. But the public became dissatisfied due to excessive taxes and harsh policies.
  4. Land Revenue Reforms :
    1. Heavy taxes were imposed on agriculture.
    1. Rebellions increased due to the insistence on tax collection even during times of famine.

Properties :

  • He was a deep scholar of philosophy , science and mathematics.
  • Its failures were the result of the weakness and haste in its implementation.

Death :

He died during an expedition to Sindh in 1351 .

3. Firoz Shah Tughlaq ( 1351-1388)

Reign :

After Muhammad bin Tughlaq , his cousin Firoz Shah Tughlaq took over the throne. He was an efficient and pious ruler , who provided stability to the Sultanate.

Major Achievements :

  1. Administrative Reforms :
    1. Strictly enforced Jaziya tax (on non-Muslims).
    1. Simplified the tax system and gave relief to farmers.
  2. Social work :
    1. Established orphanages and hospitals.
    1. roads , bridges and canals constructed.
  3. architecture :
    1. Firoz Shah Kotla (a fort in Delhi).
    1. Reconstruction of Hauz Khas.
  4. Military operations :
    1. Conquered Bengal , Orissa , and Sindh.
    1. The revolts were suppressed efficiently.

Death :

After the death of Firoz Shah in 1388 , the dynasty became weak.

4. Nasiruddin Muhammad Shah ( 1388-1394)

Reign :

After Firoz Shah Tughlaq, power struggles began. Nasiruddin Muhammad Shah was a weak ruler , during whose reign rebellion and instability increased in the Sultanate.

Incidents :

  • During this period regional governors began declaring independence.
  • The power of Delhi Sultanate weakened.

5. Mahmud Tughlaq ( 1394-1414)

Reign :

Mahmud Tughlaq was the last ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty. During his reign, the Delhi Sultanate was invaded by Timurlang in 1398 .

Invasion of Timurlang :

  • Timur attacked Delhi and plundered it extensively.
  • The Delhi Sultanate became completely weak.

Downfall :

The Tughlaq dynasty ended in 1414 and the Sayyid dynasty took power.

conclusion :

The rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty were famous for their unique policies , architecture , and governance. Ghiyasuddin brought stability to it , Muhammad bin Tughlaq adopted ambitious policies , and Firoz Shah focused on social welfare. However , the dynasty came to an end due to weak rulers and the invasion of Timurlang.

Tughlaq Dynasty Geographical Location

The Tughlaq dynasty ( 1320-1414) expanded the Delhi Sultanate during their reign and attempted to make it the largest empire in India geographically. During their reign, the empire extended from North India to South India. However , keeping this vast empire unified permanently proved to be a major challenge for them.

Geographical location of Tughlaq dynasty

1. North India

  • Delhi : Political and administrative centre of the Tughlaq dynasty.
  • The Tughlaqs had direct control over major regions like Punjab , Haryana , Uttar Pradesh , Rajasthan , and Bihar.
  • Ganga-Yamuna Doab region: This region was economically and agriculturally important.

2. Central India

  • Malwa , Chanderi , and Bundelkhand were part of the Tughlaq Empire.
  • These areas provided a significant portion of the empire’s agricultural produce and taxes.

3. South India

The Tughlaq rulers led several expeditions to expand their empire into South India.

  • Daulatabad (Devagiri) : Muhammad bin Tughlaq made an unsuccessful attempt to make it the capital.
  • Vijayanagara Empire The rise of limited the southern influence of the Tughlaq Empire.
  • Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh The Tughlaqs kept some parts of the region under their control.

4. West India

  • Gujarat and Sindh regions were part of the Tughlaq Empire.
  • From these areas, control was established over trade and sea routes.

5. East India

  • The Tughlaqs made the eastern regions like Bengal , Orissa , and Assam part of their empire in the early stages.
  • Later Bengal became independent and came out of the influence of the Tughlaqs.

6. Frontier region

  • The Tughlaq Empire extended across northwestern India and parts of present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • However , the threat of Mongol invasions always remained in these areas.

Important geographical features

  1. Ganga-Yamuna Doab : This region was the economic backbone of the empire , where agricultural production was high.
  2. Deccan region : This region of South India was the focus of military operations , but proved difficult to control permanently.
  3. Daulatabad (Devagiri) : Located in South India, it was a strategic centre , but the attempt to make it the capital was unsuccessful.
  4. Rajputana (Rajasthan) : This region was part of the western part of the empire , but its Rajput rulers often revolted.

Geographic Challenges

  1. The vast size of the empire :
    1. The empire of the Tughlaq dynasty was very large , which proved challenging to administer and control.
  2. The problem of rebellions :
    1. There were frequent revolts in distant provinces such as Bengal , Gujarat , and South India.
  3. Natural and Geographical Barriers :
    1. The Vindhyachal mountain range between South and North India posed a hindrance to the administrative control of the empire.
  4. Mongol Invasion :
    1. There was a constant threat from the Mongols on the northwestern border.

Timur’s invasion and disintegration of the empire

1398 shook the Tughlaq empire to its core. Delhi was plundered and destroyed , leaving much of the empire out of control.

conclusion

The Tughlaq dynasty expanded the territorial extent of the Delhi Sultanate , but failed to keep it unified permanently. The vast territory , administrative difficulties , and local rebellions weakened the empire. The fall of the Tughlaq Empire paved the way for the rise of regional powers in the Indian subcontinent.

Features of Tughlaq Dynasty 

The Tughlaq dynasty ( 1320-1414) ruled the Delhi Sultanate for about 94 years and created its unique image in Indian history. This dynasty is known for its experiments and reforms in administration , military , social policy , architecture , and religious matters. The major features of the Tughlaq dynasty can be understood in detail in the following points:

1. Administrative reforms and policies

Central Administration :

  • The rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty were known for establishing a strong and centralised administration.
  • Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq Developed a transparent system of tax collection.
  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq kept taxes stable and applied them according to the capacity of the farmers.

Empire Expansion and Management :

  • To administer the empire effectively he divided the provinces (Iqtas).
  • A governor was appointed for each province , who reported directly to the Sultan.

Coinage System :

  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq Issued copper and iron coins.
  • Although this policy was unsuccessful , it clearly reflects the efforts to reform the monetary system.

Land Revenue Reforms :

  • Farmers were taxed according to the productivity of their land.
  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq Provided relief to farmers in times of famine.

2. Architecture and construction work

New style of architecture :

  • A unique style of architecture developed during the reign of the Tughlaq dynasty , emphasizing simplicity , robustness , and a utilitarian approach.
  • Red sandstone and grey stones were widely used in the buildings.

Important construction works :

  1. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq :
    1. Construction of Tughlaqabad Fort.
    1. It is known for its strong walls and military system.
  2. Muhammad bin Tughlaq :
    1. various Built forts and cities , although most of his focus was on military campaigns.
  3. Firoz Shah Tughlaq :
    1. Firoz Shah Kotla (Delhi).
    1. Construction of canal system on Yamuna river.
    1. Several mosques and hospitals.

3. Social and economic policies

social reform :

  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq Promoted social and religious reforms.
  • He established orphanages and hospitals.
  • Made provision for funds to help the poor and needy.

Agricultural and Irrigation Reforms :

  • Construction of canals and water management systems.
  • Canals were drawn from rivers like Yamuna and Sutlej.
  • Loans and seeds were made available to farmers to increase agricultural production.

4. Military organization and policy of campaigns

Military Strength :

  • The rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty focused on a strong army.
  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq Organised large military expeditions to conquer foreign territories (Khurasan , Kashmir).
  • However , most of the campaigns were unsuccessful.

Defence system :

  • Delhi and other major cities were protected by strong forts.
  • The empire was divided and military units were appointed in each region.

5. Religious policy

Propagation of Islam :

  • The Tughlaq rulers ruled under Islamic law (Sharia).
  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq Strictly enforced the Jaziya tax (tax levied on non-Muslims).

Tolerance :

  • Giyasuddin Tughlaq and Muhammad bin Tughlaq showed religious tolerance.
  • However , Firoz Shah Tughlaq adopted a harsh policy towards non-Muslims.

6. Failures and reasons for collapse

Unsuccessful policies of Muhammad bin Tughlaq :

  • Shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
  • Economic crisis due to circulation of fake coins.
  • Discontent among farmers due to heavy tax system.

Internal rebellion and invasion of Timurlang :

  • Due to weak rulers, governors declared independence.
  • in 1398 Timurlang The invasion weakened the Sultanate.

Political instability :

  • Power struggle among successors after Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
  • Decline of the Sultanate during the time of Mahmud Tughlaq.

7. Other major features of the Tughlaq dynasty

Education and knowledge :

  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq Took an interest in science , mathematics , and philosophy.
  • His scholarship makes him the “King of Knowledge”.

Art and Culture :

  • The Tughlaq rulers encouraged Persian literature and Islamic art.

conclusion :

The Tughlaq dynasty wrote a new chapter of administration , architecture , and social reforms in the Delhi Sultanate. Although some of their policies failed , the impact of their reforms and architectural works remained on Indian history for a long time. The Tughlaq dynasty fell due to the invasion of Timurlang and weak leadership , but they gave a new direction to the administration and culture of the Sultanate.

Architecture of the Tughlaq Dynasty

Architecture of the Tughlaq dynasty This is an important chapter in Indian medieval history. This architecture is known for its simplicity , robustness , and utilitarian approach. The rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty combined the local style with Islamic architecture in their buildings.

Key features of Tughlaq dynasty architecture

  1. Simplicity and robustness :
    1. Tughlaq architecture emphasized simplicity and utility rather than excessive decoration.
    1. were built from strong building materials (red sandstone , grey stone).
    1. Forts and buildings were built to be durable for a long time.
  2. Battered Walls :
    1. The walls of Tughlaq buildings usually tilted slightly outwards.
    1. This style provided greater stability to forts and buildings.
  3. Domes and Arches :
    1. were made small , simple and strong.
    1. The arches were also simple and did not have much decoration.
  4. Strategic Approach :
    1. Security was given priority in the architecture.
    1. Military requirements were taken into consideration in the construction of forts and fortified cities.
  5. Road and Canal Construction :
    1. Firoz Shah Tughlaq constructed drainage and canal systems.
    1. These boosted agriculture and trade.

Major architectural structures of the Tughlaq dynasty

1. Tughlaqabad Fort (Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq)

  • Location : Delhi
  • Construction : Between 1321-1325 by Giyasuddin Tughlaq .
  • Properties :
    • This fort symbolizes the military might and architectural prowess of the Tughlaq dynasty.
    • Strong walls and inclined wall style.
    • A palace , mosque and reservoir were built within it.
  • However , due to water scarcity and the policies of Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the fort did not remain in use for long.

2. Tomb of Giyasuddin Tughlaq

  • Location : Tughlakabad , Delhi.
  • Properties :
    • A strong tomb made of stones.
    • A structure with an octagonal dome.
    • The tomb is situated on a high platform and has strong walls all around.
    • A mixture of Hindu and Islamic architecture can be seen in the tomb.

3. Firoz Shah Kotla (Firoz Shah Tughlaq)

  • Location : Delhi.
  • Construction : Firoz Shah Tughlaq built it in 1354 .
  • Properties :
    • This fort is situated near the Yamuna river.
    • The Ashoka Pillar was brought here and installed in the fort.
    • It consists of structures such as a mosque , a palace , and the Diwan-e-Aam.
  • This fort reflects the architectural prowess of the Tughlaq dynasty.

4. Jahanpanah (Muhammad bin Tughlaq)

  • Location : Delhi.
  • Construction : Muhammad bin Tughlaq built it around 1326–1327 .
  • Objective :
    • Building a new fort by combining the old forts of Delhi (Siri and Qila Rai Pithora).
    • Making the empire’s capital more secure.
  • The project was unsuccessful , but its architecture remains a subject of study even today.

5. Reconstruction of Hauz Khas (Firoz Shah Tughlaq)

  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq rebuilt this old reservoir.
  • It was used for water management and irrigation.
  • A madrasa and a tomb were built around it.

6. Mosques and Tombs

  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq and other rulers built many mosques.
  • These mosques show simplicity and clear influence of Islamic architecture.
  • Tombs often had a dome and octagonal structure.

Importance of Tughlaq dynasty’s architecture

  1. Durability and Practicality :
    1. The buildings of the Tughlaq period are known for their strength and longevity.
  2. Mixture of local and foreign styles :
    1. A coordination of Islamic and Indian architecture is visible in the architecture of this period.
  3. Military and religious architecture :
    1. Militarily strong forts and mosques of religious importance were built.
  4. Architectural heritage :
    1. Tughlaq architecture also influenced later Mughal period buildings.

conclusion

The architecture of the Tughlaq dynasty is an important chapter of medieval architecture in the Indian subcontinent. Their buildings were robust and practical , meeting the military and administrative requirements of the time. Although the style was a symbol of simplicity , a unique fusion of aesthetics and Islamic influences can be seen in it.

Administrative Reforms

The Tughlaq dynasty ( 1320–1414) ruled over many cities during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate. Administrative reforms These reforms proved to be crucial for the stability and expansion of their empire. The Tughlaq rulers made many innovations in the administrative structure , tax system , military organization , and socio-economic policies. However , while some reforms were successful , some were failures that harmed the empire.

Administrative reforms of the Tughlaq dynasty

1. Centralization and provincial administration

  • The Tughlaq rulers attempted to make the empire more organised and centralised.
  • to the empire Divided into Iqtas ( provinces).
    • Leadership of each Iqta It was done by the Iqtadar ( Governor).
    • The Iqtadar was given the responsibility of land revenue collection and local administration.
  • Iqtadars were regularly replaced , so that they could not become independent in their areas.

2. Land Revenue Reforms

Giyasuddin Tughlaq ( 1320-1325)

  • On farmers Taxes were levied based on the productivity of their land.
  • of income from agriculture 1/10 to 1/3 part taken as tax.
  • Made provision to provide relief to farmers in times of famine.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq ( 1325-1351)

  • To make the revenue system more organized South India I imposed high taxes.
  • A new system was implemented for measuring and weighing land.
  • Heavy taxes led to revolt among the farmers , which resulted in failure of his policy.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq ( 1351-1388)

  • Firoz Shah reduced the taxes on farmers and kept them stable.
  • He provided relief to farmers in times of calamities like famine and floods.
  • 1/ 5th of land revenue Jaziya tax As taken from non-Muslims only.

3. Military organization

Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq

  • Tried to bring discipline and efficiency in the army.
  • Military officers were paid regular salaries.
  • Merit was given priority in the recruitment of soldiers.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq

  • He tried to build a large and organized army.
  • Trained soldiers for military operations.
  • Organised large military expeditions to conquer distant regions (Khurasan and Kashmir).
  • However , the expeditions failed due to overly ambitious plans.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq

  • To reduce military expenditure he limited military operations.
  • Maintained regular military training and organization.

4. Monetary and economic reforms

Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq

  • Implemented efficient currency system to promote trade and economic activities.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq

  • He declared copper and iron coins equal to gold and silver coins.
  • This policy failed and had a bad impact on the economy, due to the widespread circulation of counterfeit coins.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq

  • He introduced a strong currency system to stabilize the economic condition of the Tughlaq period.
  • Roads and canals were constructed for trade and commerce.

5. Judicial reforms

  • The Tughlaq rulers introduced Islamic law (Sharia) into the judicial system.
  • The Qazi (judge) was given independence in judicial matters.
  • Conduct of judicial administration Sultan And their representatives did it.

6. Public welfare and social reform

Firoz Shah Tughlaq

  • Paid special attention to public welfare schemes.
  • Established orphanages , hospitals , and madrasas.
  • Canals were constructed for agriculture and irrigation.
  • To provide relief to labourers and farmers, arrangement for “Takkavi Loan” ( Agricultural Loans) was made.

7. Capital Transfer

Muhammad bin Tughlaq

  • He tried to shift the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad (Deccan).
    • Its aim was to link the southern and northern parts of the empire.
    • This plan was unsuccessful because it caused a lot of trouble to the public and the soldiers.

8. Religious administration and policies

Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq

  • Religious tolerance followed.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq

  • Adopted a flexible attitude in religious matters.
  • He patronised scholars and artisans.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq

  • Adopted a strict policy regarding religious matters.
  • He strictly enforced the Jaziya tax on non-Muslims.
  • Many Hindu temples were demolished and Islamic mosques were built.

Failures and Limitations of Administrative Reforms

  1. Plans of Muhammad bin Tughlaq :
    1. Administrative reforms failed due to overly ambitious plans.
    1. Public discontent grew due to the transfer of capital and monetary policy.
  2. Internal rebellion :
    1. Harsh taxation and administrative difficulties led to revolts by peasants and governors.
  3. Reason for downfall :
    1. The last rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty were weak , due to which the empire gradually weakened.
    1. Timur Lang’s invasion completely destroyed the administrative system.

conclusion

The Tughlaq dynasty introduced many reforms in the administration , aimed at making the empire organized , strong and prosperous. However , some of the reforms failed due to the imbalance between vision and implementation in their policies. Nevertheless , the reforms of the Tughlaq dynasty are an important chapter of administrative innovations in Indian medieval history.

Social policies of the Tughlaq Dynasty

Social policies of the Tughlaq dynasty The politics of the time were influenced by religion and social structure. During their reign, society was divided mainly on religious , economic and caste lines. The Tughlaq rulers made some efforts to maintain social balance , but their policies were deeply influenced by Islamic law (Sharia).

Features of the social policy of the Tughlaq dynasty

1. Religious policy and tolerance

Giyasuddin Tughlaq ( 1320-1325)

  • Giyasuddin was religiously tolerant.
  • He tried to maintain harmony between Hindus and Muslims.
  • The Sultan’s interference in religious matters was limited.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq ( 1325-1351)

  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq was flexible in religious matters.
  • He patronised Hindu temples and invited Sanskrit scholars to the court.
  • Made efforts to reduce discrimination on the basis of religion and caste.
  • However , some of his policies were rejected by radical Muslims.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq ( 1351-1388)

  • Firoz Shah was religiously fanatic.
  • He strictly enforced the Jaziya tax on non-Muslims.
  • Hindu temples were destroyed and mosques were built in their place.
  • rewarded those who accepted Islam.

2. Caste and class system

  • The society during the Tughlaq dynasty was mainly divided into the following classes:
    • Ruling class : Muslim elites and rich.
    • Fertile peasant class : responsible for farming and taxes.
    • Craftsmen and merchants : People involved in trade and craftsmanship in cities.
    • Non-Muslim class : Mainly Hindus , from whom Jaziya and other taxes were collected.
  • Discrimination on the basis of caste existed.
  • Muslims were given preference in administration and army.
  • Hindu farmers and labourers were forced to bear the burden of higher taxes.

3. Status of women

  • The status of women was limited in society.
  • Purdah system and polygamy were prevalent in Muslim society.
  • Sati , child marriage , and caste bondage were prevalent in Hindu society.
  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq did not make any special efforts to improve the condition of women.

4. Education and culture

  • The Tughlaq rulers promoted education and cultural development.
  • Madrasas And Mosques It was developed as an education centre.
  • Sanskrit , Persian , and Arabic literature were encouraged.
  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq patronized Indian and Islamic scholars.

5. Slavery​

  • The practice of slavery increased during the Tughlaq dynasty.
  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq purchased slaves on a large scale and employed them in royal service.
  • He 1,80,000 slaves Appointed to the royal army and other administrative functions.
  • Separate training centres were created for slaves.

6. Public welfare policies

Efforts of Firoz Shah Tughlaq

  • He did many works for social welfare:
    • Orphanages And Hospitals Establishment of.
    • Provided free food and medical facilities for the poor.
    • Helped farmers through agricultural reforms and construction of canals.

7. Status of religious minorities

  • Jaziya tax was collected from Hindus and other non-Muslims.
  • Hindus were allowed to celebrate religious festivals , but at times, restrictions were imposed on them.
  • The policy of conversion was promoted in some areas.
  • The rulers tried to maintain a balance between religious fanaticism and tolerance.

8. Construction of religious buildings and structures

  • The Tughlaq dynasty built mosques , tombs , and madrasas.
  • These buildings symbolised the simplicity of Tughlaq architecture and Islamic influence.
  • Social discontent also arose due to the destruction of Hindu temples and the construction of mosques.

Impact of the social policy of the Tughlaq dynasty

Positive effects

  1. An attempt was made to organise different sections of the society.
  2. Education and cultural activities were promoted.
  3. Public welfare policies provided relief to the people.

Negative effects

  1. Religious fanaticism increased social discontent.
  2. The Jaziya tax and restrictions on Hinduism led to growing discontent among non-Muslims.
  3. The increasing prevalence of slavery further deepened social inequality.

conclusion

The social policies of the Tughlaq dynasty were influenced by the personalities and religious outlook of their rulers. Giyasuddin and Muhammad bin Tughlaq displayed tolerance , while Firoz Shah Tughlaq’s fanaticism promoted social divisions. Their reigns saw cultural and educational development as well as social inequality.

Causes of collapse

Fall of the Tughlaq dynasty ( 1320–1414) This happened due to several political , administrative , economic , and social reasons. The Tughlaq dynasty , which had built a strong base in the Delhi Sultanate , went into decline due to its weak successors , administrative failures , and internal rebellions.

Reasons for the fall of Tughlaq dynasty

1. Administrative weaknesses

  • The Tughlaq rulers made many reforms , but there were serious flaws in their implementation.
  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq ’s most ambitious plans (such as shifting the capital and introducing copper coins) failed.
  • The Iqtadari system (provincial administration) became weak. The provincial rulers started moving towards independence.
  • The centralization of the administrative structure was not strong , making rebellions difficult to control.

2. Weak successor

  • Strong rulers like Giyasuddin and Muhammad bin Tughlaq were succeeded by weak rulers.
  • Power struggles increased after Firoz Shah Tughlaq , and successors were unable to handle the problems of the empire.
  • Weak leadership led to corruption and anarchy in the administration.

3. Internal rebellion and disintegration of provinces

  • The Tughlaq Empire was vast , making it difficult to control.
  • Rebellions broke out in various provinces:
    • Bengal , Gujarat , and the Deccan became independent.
    • In South India, the Vijayanagara Empire ended the influence of the Tughlaqs.
    • Rajput and Afghan chiefs also declared independence.
  • The provincial governors refused to acknowledge the authority of the Tughlaq sultans.

4. Financial crisis

  • The reign of the Tughlaq dynasty saw failure in economic policies.
  • The economic condition worsened due to the wrong policies of Muhammad bin Tughlaq (high taxes , copper coins).
  • There were revolts due to imposition of heavy taxes on farmers.
  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq did reduce taxes , but it was not enough to stabilize the economy.
  • Continuous wars and military campaigns emptied the treasury.

5. Religious fanaticism

  • Firoz Shah Tughlaq encouraged religious fanaticism.
  • The Jaziya tax was strictly enforced , leading to discontent among the non-Muslim subjects.
  • The atrocities on Hindus and other non-Muslim communities gave rise to a feeling of rebellion in the society.
  • Religious intolerance fuelled social discontent and rebellions.

6. Alien Invasion

  • Foreign invasions played an important role in the downfall of the Tughlaq dynasty.
  • in 1398 Timurlang The invasion proved disastrous for the Delhi Sultanate.
    • Timur plundered and destroyed Delhi.
    • This invasion weakened the Tughlaq administration and spread anarchy in Delhi.
  • After Timur’s invasion it became impossible to restore the power of the Delhi Sultanate.

7. Military weaknesses

  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s military plans failed , such as attempts to conquer Khurasan and Kashmir.
  • Lack of discipline in the army and the failure of major military campaigns weakened the empire.
  • During the time of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, military operations became limited , which strengthened external powers.
  • The weak army was unable to stop provincial revolts and external invasions.

8. Social dissatisfaction

  • Farmers and labourers were burdened with heavy taxes.
  • The economic and religious policies of the Tughlaq dynasty increased discontent among various classes.
  • The practice of slavery and the destruction of Hindu temples angered large sections of society.
  • Social discontent led to internal revolts and the disintegration of the empire.

9. Ambitious and impractical plans

  • Muhammad bin Tughlaq The ambitious policies of the PM became the main reason for his downfall:
    • Transfer of Capital: The attempt to shift the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad failed.
    • Currency Reforms: The circulation of copper and iron coins proved disastrous for the economy.
    • High tax rates forced the farmers to revolt.

10. Lack of continuity in leadership

  • Power struggle increased during the last period of the Tughlaq dynasty.
  • The successors of the Sultans were weak and incompetent.
  • There was a power struggle within the royal family , which weakened the central authority.

conclusion

The fall of the Tughlaq dynasty was the result of weak leadership , administrative failures , and internal rebellions. Foreign invasions and social discontent further accelerated this decline. The Tughlaq dynasty became completely weak after the invasion of Timurlang , and finally collapsed in 1414 . Sayyid dynasty ended the Tughlaq dynasty. The fall of the Tughlaq dynasty became a symbol of the weakening of the Delhi Sultanate in Indian history.

Post Views: 7

Leave a Comment