Iltutmish

Iltutmish He was a prominent ruler of the Slave Dynasty , who strengthened the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate. His reign lasted from 1211 AD to 1236 AD. He was originally a Turkic slave and succeeded Qutbuddin Aibak.

Introduction of Iltutmish:

1. Birth and Early Life : Iltutmish was born in a Turkic family. He was enslaved in childhood , but due to his intelligence , bravery and diplomacy, he became a favorite of Aibak and got the opportunity to advance in administrative and military work.
2. Ascension to the throne : After the death of Aibak, his successor Aramshah proved to be weak. Iltutmish defeated him in 1211 and captured the throne of Delhi.
3. Administrative Reforms :
   1. Iltutmish had Iqta System Organised the tax , which became a major source of revenue and administration.
   1. He issued coins of the Delhi Sultanate: silver tanka And Copper Jethal , which was proof of their financial stability.
4. Political Achievements :
   1. Protected the Sultanate from Mongol invasions and made Delhi a strong capital.
   1. He expanded the boundaries of the Sultanate by defeating various rival provincial rulers.
   1. The construction work of Qutub Minar was also completed during his reign.
5. Succession and Death : He died in 1236 AD. He was succeeded by his daughter Razia Sultan , who became the first woman ruler of Delhi.

It was due to the ability and foresight of Iltutmish that the rule of the Slave Dynasty could stand on a strong foundation. He is also called the real founder of the Delhi Sultanate.

Birth and early life 

Iltutmish was born in the Turkic community of Central Asia (present-day Turkey region). His early life was ordinary , but his talent and skills made him special.

Birth and Early Life Details:

1. Lineage and Origin :
   Iltutmish belonged to the Turk dynasty. He was born in a prestigious family , but due to political circumstances, he was made a slave in his childhood.
2. Beginning of slavery :
   They were enslaved at a young age and brought from Central Asia to Baghdad and then to India. In the social and political scenario of that time , even talented people were pushed into slavery.
3. Skills and Intelligence : Iltutmish was quick-witted
   , courageous and intelligent since childhood . His abilities were so impressive that his master , Qutbuddin Aibak , separated him from other slaves and gave him special training.
4. Freedom from slavery and respect :
   Qutubuddin Aibak recognized Iltutmish’s ability and freed him. After this, Iltutmish was appointed by Aibak to high positions in his court. Gradually , he became Aibak’s most trusted aide and military officer.
5. Education and Leadership Skills :
   Even during his slave life, Iltutmish excelled in military , administrative and political strategies. He mastered the art of warfare , horsemanship , and administrative management.

Characteristics of Early Life:

• Iltutmish’s life was full of struggles , but his willpower and foresight transformed him from a common slave to the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.
• The hardships of his early life helped him become a tolerant and efficient administrator.
• His talent and hard work not only freed him from slavery but also made him immortal in the pages of history.

Thus , the early life of Iltutmish is inspiring , containing a story of struggle , courage , and success.

Accession of Iltutmish to the throne

Iltutmish became the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate in 1211 AD. His accession to the throne was not a simple event , but there were many political and military struggles behind it.

Circumstances of accession to the throne:

1. Death of Qutubuddin Aibak :
   After the death of Qutubuddin Aibak in 1210 AD, Aramshah became his successor. However, Aramshah was a weak and incompetent ruler , whose rule led to instability and chaos in the Sultanate.
2. Election of Iltutmish :
   Due to the weaknesses of Aramshah , the leading amirs (courtiers) and officials of the Sultanate became dissatisfied . They invited Iltutmish , who was then the governor of Badaun , to become the ruler of Delhi.
   1. Seeing Iltutmish’s abilities , military skills and administrative capabilities, the nobles supported him.
   1. A military campaign was launched against Aramshah , and Iltutmish defeated Aramshah and captured the throne of Delhi.
3. Legitimation of power :
   Iltutmish obtained recognition from the Caliph (Abbasi Caliph) to legitimize his power. In 1229 AD, the Caliph gave him the title of “Sultan-e-Azam” , which strengthened his position.

Challenges after ascending the throne:

1. Provincial Rebellions :
   Iltutmish had to face rebellions of various provincial governors and rulers in the initial years.
2. Mongol Invasion :
   The threat of Mongol invasion led by Genghis Khan was looming over the Delhi Sultanate. Iltutmish prevented the Mongols from attacking Delhi through diplomacy and military strategy.
3. Strengthening the Slave Dynasty :
   Iltutmish provided stability to the Sultanate through administrative and military reforms. He Iqta System organised the country and established a central authority.

historical significance:

Iltutmish’s accession to the throne was a turning point in the history of the Slave dynasty. His skill and foresight not only saved the Delhi Sultanate from internal challenges but also transformed it into a strong empire.

Administrative Reforms

Administrative reforms of Iltutmish

Iltutmish is considered the real founder of the Delhi Sultanate , as he created a strong and systematic administrative structure. His reforms not only helped in providing stability to the Sultanate at that time , but the systems established by him also became the basis of the rule of the Delhi Sultanate in the years to come.

Detailed description of administrative reforms:

1. Organising the Iqta System :

• Definition : Iqta There was a land revenue system , under which large tracts of land were given to officials and soldiers in lieu of salaries.
• Iltutmish systematised this system and Iqta Strict rules were made to control the receiving officers.
• Everyone Iqta The officer (Iqtadar) of the village had to ensure that the revenue from the land was used for the maintenance of the troops and administrative work.
• This made revenue collection and management of the army more effective.

2. Restructuring of coins :

• Iltutmish introduced a standardized currency system as part of financial reforms.
• They silver tanka And copper jethal Coins called ‘Digital Icon’ were introduced , which became the basis of the Sultanate’s economy.
• These coins brought stability to trade and strengthened the economy of the Sultanate.

3. Strengthening of free and central power :

• Iltutmish strengthened the central power during his reign.
• He brought all the provinces and governors of the Sultanate under direct authority of Delhi.
• Took harsh measures to crush the rebellious provincial rulers.

4. Elite Class (Chaalisa) :

• Iltutmish created an influential elite class , which It was called Chaalisa ( group of forty prominent nobles).
• This group played an important role in governance and assisted in implementing the Sultanate’s policies.
• Though this system created some problems in the future , it remained effective during the reign of Iltutmish .

5. Legal and religious reforms :

• He based the justice system on Islamic law ( sharia ) and ensured that the law was followed throughout the empire.
• Qazis were appointed for religious matters and judicial functions.

6. Strategic and security improvements :

• Amid the threat of Mongol invasion, he built and strengthened strategically important forts.
• Emphasised on reorganising and expanding the army.
• He also established his capital Delhi as a strong and secure administrative centre.

7. Obtaining recognition from the Caliph :

• Iltutmish sought recognition from the Abbasid Caliph to legitimize his power.
• 1229 AD he was given the title of “Sultan-e-Azam” , which recognized his status internationally as well.

Impact of Administrative Reforms:

• These reforms provided political and economic stability to the Delhi Sultanate.
• Iltutmish’s policies provided the Sultanate with a centralised and effective administrative structure.
• His reforms gave the Slave Dynasty the ability to rule for a long time and strengthened the foundation of Muslim rule in India.

Iltutmish’s administrative reforms are a proof of his farsightedness and efficient leadership. His reforms proved to be a milestone in Indian history in terms of administrative efficiency and organization.

Political Achievements

Political achievements of Iltutmish

Iltutmish is considered an efficient ruler and a visionary leader who provided political and military stability to the Delhi Sultanate. His political achievements not only make his reign glorious but also strengthened the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate.

Detailed description of political achievements:

1. Consolidation of the Delhi Sultanate :

• Iltutmish made Delhi his capital and strengthened it administratively and militarily.
• He attempted to transform his regime into an effective central authority rather than a merely nominal one.

2. Suppression of provincial revolts :

• After the death of Qutbuddin Aibak, many provincial rulers in the Sultanate declared independence.
• Iltutmish successfully suppressed these rebellions and brought provinces like Bengal , Bihar , Awadh , and Sindh back under the Sultanate.
• He also expanded the boundaries of the Sultanate by taking control of forts like Gwalior and Ranthambore.

3. Conflict with Rajput States :

• Iltutmish weakened the power of powerful Rajput states like Chittor , Ajmer , and Kalinjar by defeating them.
• He also captured important forts like Ranthambore and Mandu , which were strategically important.

4. Protection from Mongol invasion :

• During the reign of Iltutmish, the attack of the Mongol leader Genghis Khan was looming over North India.
• Jalaluddin, ruler of Khwarezm, chasing Genghis Khan, came to India to escape the Mongols.
• Iltutmish, displaying skillful diplomacy, did not give shelter to Jalaluddin , due to which the Mongols gave up the idea of attacking India.
• This is an excellent example of his political acumen and strategy.

5. Obtaining recognition from the Caliph :

• Iltutmish sought recognition from the Abbasid Caliphate to give legitimacy to his power and international recognition.
• 1229 AD the Caliph gave him the title of “Sultan-e-Azam” (Great Sultan).
• This not only strengthened his position , but also gave the Delhi Sultanate prestige as a recognised state in the Islamic world.

6. Strengthening the establishment of the Slave Dynasty :

• Iltutmish provided stability to the power of the slave dynasty.
• He strengthened the Slave Dynasty through administrative and military reforms during his rule , making the Sultanate a strong empire.

7. Capture areas of strategic importance :

• subjugated strategically important regions like Malwa , Ujjain , and other parts of central India.
• The capture of these areas not only expanded the boundaries of the Sultanate but also secured the trade routes.

8. Cultural and architectural advancement of the state :

• The construction of Qutub Minar was completed by Iltutmish. It is a symbol of his interest in architecture and cultural preservation.
• His political stability also provided the Sultanate with a basis for cultural advancement.

Expansion of The Empire

Iltutmish expanded the empire of the Delhi Sultanate during his reign And gave it a strong and comprehensive form. The main aspects of his empire expansion are as follows:

1. Protection from Mongol invasions :

• During the time of Iltutmish, there was a threat of Mongol invasion. The Mongols under the leadership of Genghis Khan planned to attack India in 1221 AD.
• Iltutmish adopted a diplomatic policy and kept the borders of his empire safe by avoiding conflict with the Mongols.

2. Control over North India :

• He strengthened the empire of the Delhi Sultanate by conquering the Ganga-Yamuna Doab region and Awadh.
• Defeated rebellious governors in Bihar and Bengal and brought these areas under the Sultanate again.
• The ruler of Bengal, Ali Mardan, had declared independence , but Iltutmish defeated him and brought Bengal under the Sultanate again.

3. Suppression of Rajput rulers :

• He invaded the Rajput states of Rajasthan and Central India.
• Captured areas like Ranthambore , Gwalior , Ajmer and Malwa.
• By weakening the power of the Rajputs, the boundaries of the Delhi Sultanate were further strengthened.

4. Authority over Sindh and Multan :

• Iltutmish expanded the Delhi Sultanate in the west direction by capturing Sindh and Multan in western India.

5. Pressure on Devagiri :

• Expanded his influence over some areas of South India , especially Devagiri.
• However, in South India he adopted the policy of indirect control instead of direct conquest.

6. Strengthening the boundaries of the Delhi Sultanate :

• Along with expanding the empire, Iltutmish also organised and secured the borders of the Sultanate.
• To stabilize his power in the core regions of the Sultanate, he resorted to military outposts and administrative reforms.

Formation of the Chalice 

The formation of Chalisi ( Turkan-e-Chahalgani) was an important political and administrative achievement of Iltutmish’s reign. It was a powerful group of forty Turkish chieftains , which Iltutmish formed to strengthen his rule and help in the administration of the empire. It was Turkan-e-Chahalgani It is called “assembly of forty Turkic chieftains” .

Formation and Objectives of the Chaldea:

1. background :
   1. Iltutmish realised that without an organised and loyal administrative class it would be difficult to provide stability to the Sultanate.
   1. During his time, the Turkish chieftains were dominant , and there were many factions and rebellious tendencies among them.
   1. In such a situation, Iltutmish formed a group of loyal and efficient officers towards his rule.
2. structure :
   1. The Chalisi consisted of 40 high-ranking Turkic chieftains , who were skilled in military and administrative matters.
   1. These chieftains were directly answerable to the Sultan and assisted him in various important functions of the state.
3. Objective :
   1. Making the administration more organised and efficient.
   1. To control the rebellious nature of the Turkish chieftains and channelize them in the interest of the Sultanate.
   1. To ensure effective governance in various sectors of the State.
   1. To help implement military and administrative reforms.

Works and Contributions of Chalcis:

1. Political Stability :
   1. Chalisi provided stability to the Sultan’s rule.
   1. These chieftains played an important role in suppressing rebellions and expanding the Sultanate.
2. Administrative Reforms :
   1. These chieftains were given charge of major regions and administrative units of the state.
   1. They were tasked with implementing the orders of the central government in various parts of the Sultanate.
3. Military contribution :
   1. The members of the Chaldea played an important role in boosting the army’s power and conducting military campaigns.
   1. Iltutmish made extensive use of the services of the Chalisi members in his conquests of Bengal , Bihar and the Rajput states.

The Fall of Chalcis:

• After the death of Iltutmish the importance of Chalisi started decreasing.
• His successors , especially During the time of Razia Sultan , members of Chalisi tried to increase their power and became a challenge to the Sultan.
• Razia Sultan had to face opposition from Chalisi , as she wanted to rule independent of Chalisi’s control.
• Under the later sultans the Chalis became a victim of factionalism and internal strife , resulting in the weakening of the group.

Introduction of coins 

Iltutmish made several important reforms in the Indian currency system and introduced a new system of coins , which became the basis of the monetary system of the Delhi Sultanate. He introduced silver coins. ” Tanaka “ and the copper ” Zeetel” Coins called were brought into circulation. These coins proved helpful in fulfilling the economic and trade needs of that time.

Introduction of coins:

1. background :
   1. Before Iltutmish, the rulers of the Delhi Sultanate did not make any special effort to organise the monetary system.
   1. Arab and Turkish coins were in circulation in the early years of the Sultanate.
   1. Coins issued by various local and regional rulers were also in circulation in the Indian subcontinent , causing commercial and administrative inconveniences.
2. Objective of the new currency :
   1. To strengthen and organise the Sultanate’s economy.
   1. To establish economic unity by circulating a common currency throughout the empire.
   1. Presenting the Delhi Sultanate as an integral part of the Islamic world by gaining recognition of the Caliph.

Coins issued by Iltutmish:

1. Silver Tanka :

• It was made of 175 grains ( 11.66 grams) of silver.
• This coin became the official currency of the Delhi Sultanate and remained in circulation for a long time.
• The tanka bore inscribed in Arabic script verses from the Quran , the name of the sultan , and a pledge of loyalty to the caliph.
• The size and weight of the coin were similar to those already in circulation in the Islamic world.

2. Copper Jital:

• It was issued for the daily transactions of the general public.
• Jeetal was a small value coin and was used in local trade and market.
• Jeetal made trade uniform and simple by replacing the local currency.

3. Gold Dinar :

• Although Iltutmish mainly issued silver and copper coins , there is some evidence to suggest that he also issued gold coins (dinars) in limited quantities.
• Gold coins were mainly used for large trade transactions and royal purposes.

Features of the coins:

1. Islamic influence :
   1. Verses from the Quran and the names of the Caliphs were inscribed on the coins in Arabic script.
   1. This symbolised that the Delhi Sultanate was part of the Islamic world.
2. Arranged size and weight :
   1. The tanka and jital were minted in a standardized size and weight , bringing uniformity across the empire.
3. Symbol of power and legitimacy :
   1. The Sultan’s name and titles were inscribed on the coins , making it clear that the Sultan was the supreme ruler of the state.
   1. By inscribing the name of the caliph it also ensured religious legitimacy.

Effect of Iltutmish’s currency system:

1. Economic Stability :
   1. Iltutmish’s monetary system provided stability to the economy of the Delhi Sultanate.
   1. Transactions became easier for merchants and the general public.
2. Growth of Trade and Commerce :
   1. A common currency promoted trade and commerce.
   1. Trade relations between India and Islamic countries strengthened.
3. The basis of the modern Indian monetary system :
   1. The “Tanka” system introduced by Iltutmish provided a model for the later Indian currency system.
   1. Later , Mughals and other rulers also adopted this system.

Recognition of the Caliphate

Recognition of the Caliphate It was an important political and religious achievement of Iltutmish’s reign. This step was taken to establish the legitimacy , religious stability and political soundness of the Delhi Sultanate.

Recognition of the Caliph:

1. background :
   1. In the Islamic tradition, the Caliph (the supreme religious and political leader of the Islamic world) was considered the symbol of Islamic authority.
   1. Receiving recognition from the Caliph was a sign that the ruler’s rule was in accordance with Islamic rules and traditions.
   1. The early rulers of the Delhi Sultanate faced local rebellions , factionalism among Turkish chieftains and difficulties in establishing the legitimacy of the empire.
2. Objective of Iltutmish :
   1. Iltutmish realised that obtaining recognition from the Caliph would not only legitimize his rule on religious grounds but would also weaken the opposition from other Turkish chieftains and rivals.
   1. This step was also towards giving the Sultanate an important place in the Islamic world.

Obtaining recognition from the Caliph:

1. Establishing contact :
   1. Iltutmish sent his envoys to the Caliph of Baghdad , the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mustansir Billah .
   1. These envoys demonstrated Iltutmish’s loyalty and sought the Caliph’s recognition of the legitimacy of his rule.
2. Obtaining the recognition of the Caliph :
   1. 1229 AD, the Caliph recognized Iltutmish as the Sultan of Delhi Sultanate.
   1. The Caliph gave him ” Representative of the Caliph” And declared him a true supporter of Islam.
3. Symbols of respect :
   1. The Caliph gave Iltutmish a title with recognition the honorific dress (khilat) , a flag , and a Sanad (Certificate) , which was a symbol of his religious and political legitimacy.

Importance of recognition of Caliph:

1. Religious legitimacy :
   1. After receiving recognition from the Caliph, Iltutmish’s rule was considered religiously legitimate and just.
   1. This helped to show the Sultanate’s rule as being in conformity with Islamic principles.
2. political stability :
   1. The recognition of the Caliph weakened Iltutmish’s political opponents , especially the Turkish chieftains .
   1. He used this to tell his opponents that his rule was in accordance with the will of Allah and the Caliph.
3. International recognition :
   1. By obtaining the recognition of the Caliph, the Delhi Sultanate got an identity in the Islamic world.
   1. This strengthened trade and diplomatic relations between India and Islamic countries (such as Central Asia and West Asia).
4. Publicity and influence :
   1. The recognition of the Caliph established the Sultan’s image among the public as a pious and chosen representative of Allah.
   1. This helped Iltutmish to expand the empire and gain support for administrative reforms.

Results and Impact:

1. Consolidation of the Empire :
   1. The recognition of the Caliph helped Iltutmish to consolidate and expand his rule.
   1. He suppressed rebellions and unified the Sultanate by defeating his opponents.
2. Tradition of succession :
   1. The tradition of seeking recognition from the Caliph was continued by rulers after Iltutmish.
   1. Although the caliph’s power gradually declined , his legitimacy remained of symbolic importance.
3. Religious-political balance :
   1. Through recognition of the Caliph the Sultan maintained a balance of religious and political power , garnering support from both the populace and the chieftains.

Contribution to architecture 

Contribution of Iltutmish in architecture The early period of the Delhi Sultanate was an important phase in the development of architecture and the introduction of Islamic style. He built many magnificent monuments and mosques during his reign , which are wonderful examples of the coordination of Turkish and Indian architectural styles.

Contribution to Architecture:

1. Completion of the construction of Qutub Minar :

• The most famous monument of Delhi , the Qutub Minar , was completed during the time of Iltutmish.
• This construction work was started by Qutubuddin Aibak , but he could not complete it.
• Iltutmish completed it in 1220 AD.
• Qutub Minar is a symbol of Islamic architecture in India. Its height , Quranic verses in Arabic script , and ornate arches are excellent examples of Islamic architecture.

2. Tomb of Sultan Garhi :

• Iltutmish sent his son Nasiruddin Mahmud in 1231 A.D. for Sultan Garhi Built a tomb named.
• It is believed to be the first Islamic tomb in India.
• The mixture of Hindu and Islamic architecture is clearly visible in the structure of the tomb. It has a beautiful combination of domes , arches and pillars.

3. Construction of Jama Masjid and other mosques :

• Iltutmish built many mosques during his reign , including two and a half day hut And other mosques are major ones.
• Arches and minarets were beautifully used in these mosques , which introduce the Turkish architectural style.
• Arabic inscriptions and geometric shapes were extensively used in the decoration of mosques.

4. Reuse of Hindu and Jain architecture :

• The remains of Hindu and Jain temples were reused in the architecture of Iltutmish’s time.
• Examples of this can be seen in the Qutb complex , where columns from Hindu and Jain temples were used in mosques and other structures.

5. Fort and palace construction :

• Iltutmish built many forts and palaces in his empire.
• These structures served military purposes as well as administrative centers.
• Their architectural style displays power and grandeur.

Architectural Features:

1. A blend of Turkish and Indian style :
   1. one can see a combination of Turkish style (domes , arches and minarets) and Indian style (ornamentation and intricate carvings of pillars).
2. Arabic inscriptions and Quranic verses :
   1. Verses from the Quran and inscriptions in the Arabic script were widely used on their monuments.
3. Development of dome and arch :
   1. During the time of Iltutmish, the dome and arch techniques were refined , which later became the hallmark of Delhi Sultanate and Mughal architecture.
4. Religious and political structures :
   1. A mixture of religious and administrative purposes is evident in their architecture. This balance can be seen in mosques , tombs and forts.

Influence of architecture:

1. Foundations of Islamic Architectural Style :
   1. Iltutmish’s architecture laid the foundation of the Islamic architectural style in the Indian subcontinent.
   1. His structures later became an inspiration for the Khilji and Mughal rulers.
2. Religious and cultural syncretism :
   1. Iltutmish’s structures symbolize the syncretism of Hindu and Islamic architecture.
   1. This makes it clear that local resources and artisans were extensively used in the early Sultanate period.
3. Symbol of political power :
   1. Their monuments were symbols of the Sultan’s power , grandeur and religious devotion.
   1. The Qutub Minar and other structures tell the story of the stability and expansion of the Delhi Sultanate.

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar It is a historical monument of Delhi and is considered a classic example of Indian architecture. This tower Delhi Sultanate the first ruler of Qutubuddin Aibak It was founded by and its construction work was continued by his successor Iltutmish Qutub Minar was completed during the reign of Islamic Architecture is known as a wonderful example of UNESCO World Heritage Site It is listed as.

History of Qutub Minar:

1. Start of construction :
   1. Qutub Minar was built in 1193 AD Qutubuddin Aibak It was started by. He was the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and ordered the construction of the Qutub Minar after invading Delhi.
   1. Qutub Minar was built for a religious purpose , which was the reason behind the construction of the Qutub Minar at that time. Islamic conquests And religious authority of muslims It was a symbol of.
   1. Qutub Minar first It was known as the ” Qutub Minar-e-Islam” (Islamic Victory Tower) , and was a symbol of Islamic victory and the spread of Islamic culture.
2. Completion of construction work :
   1. The construction of Qutub Minar was started by Qutubuddin Aibak , but it was completed during the reign of Iltutmish ( 1211–1236 AD).
   1. Iltutmish constructed the upper part of the tower and decorated it. Did.
   1. Later , Firoz Shah Tughlaq (14th century) repaired the minaret and made some changes to it.

Architectural Features of Qutub Minar :

1. Height and size :
   1. Approximate height of Qutub Minar It stands at 72.5 m (238 ft) , and is the tallest brick minaret in India.
   1. It is a five-storey tower , with a balcony on each floor.
2. Materials and construction :
   1. Qutub Minar was mainly constructed Red Sandstone It is made from , giving it a distinctive colour and texture.
   1. intricate designs on its inside and outside walls Arabic inscriptions And verses of the Quran They are engraved on the idol , which shows its religious significance.
   1. one at the top of the tower An Iron Pillar is also located , which is seen connecting the tower.
3. Style of construction :
   1. Architecture of Qutub Minar Turkish style and It is a wonderful example of the mixture of Islamic architecture .
   1. In this domes , arches , and Tower features are visible.
   1. There is a large courtyard at the base of the Qutub Minar , which is connected to the surrounding areas and has a major concert stage He used to work as a .
4. Inscriptions and decorations :
   1. Inscriptions carved on the tower verses of the Quran And the name of Qutubuddin Aibak has been inscribed.
   1. Furthermore , the inscriptions glorify Islamic conquests and the Muslim empire.
   1. On the walls of the tower there are various types of Geometric Design And floral patterns are also seen.

Purpose of Qutub Minar:

1. Religious purposes :
   1. Qutub Minar was built to propagate the Islamic religion and as a symbol of Islamic victories.
   1. This minaret is of the mosque Minaret , in which The azan ( call to prayer) was given.
2. Political objectives :
   1. Qutub Minar was considered a symbol of the victory and power of the Delhi Sultanate.
   1. This minaret was an important monument showing the expansion of the Delhi Empire and the influence of Islamic culture.

Historical and cultural importance of Qutub Minar:

1. Symbol of Islamic architecture :
   1. Qutub Minar is a prime example of Islamic architecture in Delhi , with Arabic inscriptions and the influence of Islamic designs clearly seen.
   1. The Qutub Minar laid the foundation of Islamic architecture in the Indian subcontinent and subsequent rulers , such as the Khalji and Tughlaq dynasties , followed this style.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Sites :
   1. The Qutub Minar was demolished in 1993 World Heritage Site by UNESCO It was recognized as a symbol of Indian architecture and Islamic history.
3. Cultural and tourist attractions :
   1. Qutub Minar is a major tourist destination of Delhi , which attracts thousands of tourists every year.
   1. The Minar and its surrounding area are part of Delhi’s cultural heritage and also house several other historical monuments.

Structural condition of Qutub Minar:

1. Seismic Safety :
   1. The Qutub Minar was specially designed to protect against the effects of earthquakes. The walls inside the minaret are thick and strong , which helps prevent its collapse.
   1. Despite this , the tower has been damaged several times by seismic impact and has undergone several repair works.

Succession and death of Iltutmish

Succession and death of Iltutmish It was an important event in the history of the Delhi Sultanate , as efforts were made during this period to stabilize power and strengthen the structure of the Sultanate. The process of succession after Iltutmish and the events following his death shaped the future of the Delhi Sultanate.

Succession:

1. Election of successor :
   1. None of Iltutmish’s sons were clearly designated as his successor during his lifetime.
   1. During the time of Iltutmish, he had four prominent sons , out of whom Nasiruddin Mahmud , Ruknuddin Feroz , Behzad , and Firoz The name of comes up.
   1. Iltutmish had ensured during his lifetime that someone strong and capable would be his successor , thus providing stability to the Sultanate.
2. Selection of Nasiruddin Mahmud :
   1. After Iltutmish Nasiruddin Mahmud was appointed the Sultan of Delhi.
   1. Nasiruddin Mahmud was the eldest son of Iltutmish , and was chosen for the position because he was seen as a capable and competent ruler.
   1. However , no significant political change came during the reign of Nasiruddin Mahmud , and he did not prove to be an effective ruler for long.
   1. During the reign of Nasiruddin Mahmud , the administration of the Sultanate had at times passed into the hands of Iltutmish’s courtiers and officials , a symbol of his weakness.
3. Subordination to the Sultan :
   1. After Iltutmish, the administration of the Sultanate gradually passed into the hands of powerful military officers and amirs , making the Sultan merely a nominal ruler.
   1. This weakened the position of the Sultanate’s central authority , and resulted in a number of administrative crises.

Death:

1. Time of death :
   1. Death of Iltutmish 1236 AD It happened in.
   1. His rule had an impact after his death , as the process of succession and power struggles destabilized the Delhi Sultanate.
2. Struggle after death :
   1. After the death of Iltutmish, his son Nasiruddin Mahmud Political instability increased during the reign of .
   1. Taking advantage of the Sultan’s weaknesses , Iltutmish’s courtiers and military leaders tried to seize power , leading to political conflict and rebellion.
   1. Due to this , the rule of Nasiruddin Mahmud remained only nominal and the real power Aitzazuddin , Ruknuddin , and their court officials It went into the hands of.

Condition after death:

1. Overall condition :
   1. After the death of Iltutmish, political instability and power struggle began in the Delhi Sultanate , which continued for the next few decades.
   1. His death demonstrated that without a strong and capable ruler , the Delhi Sultanate could suffer from weakness in power and administration.
   1. Although other rulers made efforts to restore stability in the Sultanate after the death of Iltutmish , his control as the main centre of power in the Sultanate gradually weakened.
2. Contribution of Iltutmish :
   1. The reign of Iltutmish is seen as a golden age in the history of the Delhi Sultanate.
   1. He not only stabilised the Sultanate but also strengthened it and carried out several important administrative reforms.
   1. His rule formed the basis for the effective expansion of the Delhi Sultanate , and the architectural works he created , such as the Qutb Minar , remain symbols of his legacy to this day.

Conclusion

Iltutmish’s political achievements are a testimony to his unparalleled leadership ability , military skill , and diplomatic acumen. He not only protected the Sultanate from rebellions and external invasions , but also created an effective administration and a strong political structure. Due to these achievements, Iltutmish is called the real founder of the Delhi Sultanate.

Iltutmish gave a broad and organized form to the empire of the Delhi Sultanate by introducing his military capability , diplomacy and administrative efficiency. His policy of empire expansion not only provided geographical stability to the Delhi Sultanate , but also established it as a powerful and long-lasting state.

The formation of Chalisi was a symbol of Iltutmish’s political acumen and administrative efficiency. It provided stability and strength to his rule. Although , Chalisi began to decline after Iltutmish , the purpose and importance of its formation emerges as a unique example in the early history of the Delhi Sultanate.

Iltutmish gave a new direction to the Indian currency system by introducing the silver tanka and the copper jital. His currency system not only symbolized economic unity and stability , but also reflected the power and splendor of the Delhi Sultanate. This reform is an excellent example of the farsightedness and efficient administrative ability of his rule.

Obtaining the recognition of the Caliph was a symbol of Iltutmish’s political acumen and foresight. This step not only provided legitimacy to his rule , but also gave the Sultanate a basis for religious and political stability. This event of obtaining recognition from the Caliph is an important milestone in the history of the Delhi Sultanate.

Iltutmish’s contribution to architecture is an important phase in Indian architectural history. He not only established the Islamic architectural style in India , but also gave uniqueness to his architecture through a unique syncretism of local and foreign styles. Qutub Minar , Sultan Garhi and other monuments immortalise the architectural heritage of his reign.

Qutub Minar is not only a historical and cultural heritage , but it is also a symbol of Delhi Sultanate and Islamic architecture. The construction of Qutub Minar was started by Qutubuddin Aibak and completed by Iltutmish , and it still holds an important place in Indian and global history. Its height , construction style , and historical importance make it a unique monument.

After the death of Iltutmish, there came an unstable period for the Delhi Sultanate. Though the system of governance established by him and his administrative policies gave a lot to the Delhi Sultanate , the conflicts after his succession and death proved how difficult it can be in a Sultanate without a strong ruler.

Iltutmish’s reign is seen as an important and stable era in the history of the Delhi Sultanate. He strengthened the Sultanate from a political , military , and administrative perspective , thereby expanding the influence of the Delhi Sultanate across the Indian subcontinent. The reforms undertaken by him , such as strengthening the central power of the Sultan , strengthening of administrative structures , and contributions in the field of architecture (such as the construction of the Qutub Minar) , were the main achievements of his reign.

Although Iltutmish’s succession and his death were followed by some instability and power struggles , his contributions remain enduringly important in Indian history. He firmly established the foundations of Islamic rule in the Indian subcontinent and shaped its cultural and religious identity .

After his death, political instability increased in the Delhi Sultanate , but Iltutmish’s reign emerged as a golden age in the history of the Sultanate , setting an example of stable and strong rule for the rulers to come.