Explanation: Razia Sultan, born in 1205, was the daughter of Iltutmish, the fifth ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. She was the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, a period of significant political and cultural development in medieval India. Razia Sultan ascended to the throne in 1236, following the death of her father, Iltutmish. Her reign was marked by several notable achievements and reforms.
One of the most significant aspects of Razia Sultan's rule was her administrative reforms. She introduced several measures to improve the efficiency of the government and the economy. She also focused on strengthening the military and expanding the Sultanate's territories. Razia Sultan was known for her intelligence and her ability to lead, which earned her the respect of many of her subjects.
However, her reign was not without challenges. She faced opposition from conservative elements within the Sultanate who were uncomfortable with a female ruler. This opposition eventually led to her downfall. In 1240, she was overthrown by a group of nobles led by Malik Altunia, and she was subsequently killed.
Despite her short reign, Razia Sultan's rule is remembered as a significant period in the history of the Delhi Sultanate. Her reign lasted for 4 years, from 1236 to 1240, and her contributions to the administration and economy of the Sultanate are well-documented in historical records. Her legacy as the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate continues to be an important part of Indian history.
Understanding the duration of Razia Sultan's rule is crucial for students of Indian history, as it provides context for the political and social developments of the time. It is also important for those preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, State PSC, NDA, and CDS, where questions on medieval Indian history are common. The correct answer to the question is that Razia Sultan ruled for 4 years, and this fact is a key piece of information in the study of the Delhi Sultanate and medieval Indian history.