Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 126

In which year did Muhammad-bin Tughluq shift the capital of the empire from Delhi to Devagiri (he named it Daulatabad)?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the timeline of the Tughlaq dynasty.

Correct Answer: D) 1327

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Muhammad-bin-Tughluq was a significant ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, which was a part of the Delhi Sultanate. His reign began in 1325 and lasted until 1351. One of the most notable decisions he made during his rule was the relocation of the capital from Delhi to Devagiri, which he renamed Daulatabad. This shift occurred in the year 1327.

The decision to move the capital was driven by several strategic considerations. Muhammad-bin-Tughluq aimed to consolidate his control over the Deccan region, which was crucial for the stability and expansion of his empire. Devagiri, located in the Deccan, was a more central location compared to Delhi, which was in the north. This move was intended to improve administrative efficiency and to better manage the vast territories under his rule.

However, the relocation of the capital was not without its challenges. The move was met with significant resistance from the people of Delhi, who were unwilling to leave their homes and livelihoods. The journey to Daulatabad was arduous, and many people died during the relocation. Additionally, the new capital faced logistical and administrative difficulties, which eventually led to the capital being moved back to Delhi.

Understanding the historical context of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq's reign and his decision to shift the capital is crucial for comprehending the political and administrative challenges faced by rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. The year 1327 marks a significant event in the history of the Tughlaq dynasty and the broader context of medieval Indian history.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. The year 1372 is not associated with Muhammad-bin-Tughluq's capital shift. It is a distractor to test the student's knowledge of the correct date.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The year 1723 is much later than the Tughlaq dynasty's rule and does not correspond to any historical event related to Muhammad-bin-Tughluq's reign.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The year 2137 is a future date and is not relevant to the historical context of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq's rule.
  • Option D: This option is correct. In 1327, Muhammad-bin-Tughluq shifted the capital of his empire from Delhi to Devagiri, which he renamed Daulatabad. This decision was part of his broader strategy to consolidate his control over the Deccan region.

Mnemonic: Remember the date 1327 as the year when Tughluq moved his capital.

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