Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 333

ILTUTMISH WAS KNOWN AS

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider Iltutmish's role in the Delhi Sultanate and his contributions to governance and coinage.

Correct Answer: D) All of the above.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC, NDA, CDS

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Iltutmish, whose full name was Shams-ud-din Iltutmish, was a significant figure in the early history of the Delhi Sultanate. He played a crucial role in the establishment and consolidation of Turkish rule in India, which had profound implications for the political and cultural landscape of the subcontinent.

One of Iltutmish's most notable contributions was the introduction of a new coin system. Prior to his reign, the monetary system in India was somewhat chaotic, with a variety of coins in circulation. Iltutmish introduced the silver tanka and the copper jital, which became the standard currency during his reign and were widely used in subsequent periods. This reform helped stabilize the economy and facilitated trade and commerce.

Iltutmish is also recognized as the real founder of Turkish rule in India. Although Qutb-ud-din Aibak is often credited with establishing the Delhi Sultanate, it was Iltutmish who truly consolidated and expanded the Turkish rule. He strengthened the administrative structure, expanded the territory, and established a more stable and powerful regime. His reign marked the beginning of a new era in Indian history, characterized by the dominance of Turkish rulers and the influence of Islamic culture.

Furthermore, Iltutmish became the sovereign Sultan of India after the death of Qutb-ud-din Aibak. He ruled from 1211 to 1236 and was the first sultan of the Mamluk dynasty. His reign was marked by significant achievements, including the construction of the Qutb Minar, which he completed, and the establishment of a strong and centralized government.

Thus, Iltutmish's contributions to the coin system, the consolidation of Turkish rule, and his role as the sovereign Sultan of India make him a pivotal figure in medieval Indian history. His legacy is remembered for his administrative reforms, military conquests, and the establishment of a stable and powerful regime that laid the foundation for the Delhi Sultanate.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Iltutmish introduced a new coin system in India, which was a significant administrative and economic reform. He introduced the silver tanka and the copper jital, which were widely used during his reign and later.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Iltutmish is considered the real founder of Turkish rule in India. Although Qutb-ud-din Aibak established the Delhi Sultanate, Iltutmish consolidated and expanded the Turkish rule, making it more stable and powerful.
  • Option C: This option is correct. Iltutmish became the sovereign Sultan of India after the death of Qutb-ud-din Aibak. He ruled from 1211 to 1236 and was the first sultan of the Mamluk dynasty.
  • Option D: This option is correct. All the statements about Iltutmish are accurate. He was known for introducing a new coin system, being the real founder of Turkish rule in India, and becoming the sovereign Sultan of India.

Mnemonic: Iltutmish: "I" for "Initiator" of coinage, "T" for "Turkish" rule, "S" for "Sultan"

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