Explanation: Razia Sultan, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1236 to 1240, was the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. Her reign was marked by significant opposition from the 'Group of Forty' (Chihalgani), a group of powerful nobles who were unhappy with her rule and her unconventional methods of governance.
The 'Group of Forty' was a coalition of forty powerful nobles who had significant influence over the Delhi Sultanate. They were unhappy with Razia Sultan's rule for several reasons. Firstly, she was a woman, and the nobles were not accustomed to being ruled by a female monarch. Secondly, Razia Sultan was known for her unconventional methods of governance, such as her decision to dress like a man and her close relationship with Jamal-ud-Din Yaqut, a Turkish slave, which was seen as inappropriate by the nobles.
Razia Sultan's reign was short-lived due to the opposition from the 'Group of Forty'. They eventually overthrew her, and she was killed in 1240. Her brother, Muizuddin Bahram Shah, succeeded her as the Sultan of Delhi.
In contrast, Iltutmish, Razia Sultan's father, was a powerful ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and did not face opposition from the 'Group of Forty'. He was the founder of the Mamluk dynasty and was well-respected by the nobles. Balban, who succeeded Razia Sultan, was a powerful noble and later became the Sultan himself. He did not face opposition from the 'Group of Forty' but rather was part of the group that opposed Razia Sultan. Malik Kafur, a general under Alauddin Khilji, did not face opposition from the 'Group of Forty' and was known for his military campaigns.
Understanding the historical context of Razia Sultan's reign and the role of the 'Group of Forty' is crucial for comprehending the political dynamics of the Delhi Sultanate during the 13th century. Razia Sultan's reign, though brief, is a significant part of Indian history and highlights the challenges faced by female rulers in medieval India.