Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 155

..... shifted his capital from Delhi to Devagiri.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the reign of Muhammad Tughlak and his administrative decisions.

Correct Answer: C) Muhammad Tughlak.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Muhammad Tughlak, a significant figure in the history of the Delhi Sultanate, ruled from 1325 to 1351. He is known for his ambitious administrative reforms and his attempts to centralize power. One of his most notable actions was the decision to shift the capital from Delhi to Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad) in 1327. This move was intended to consolidate his control over the Deccan region and to establish a more central location for his empire.

The Delhi Sultanate, which was established in the early 13th century, was a series of Muslim dynasties that ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent. The Tughlaq dynasty, to which Muhammad Tughlak belonged, was one of the most powerful and influential of these dynasties. Muhammad Tughlak's reign was marked by several significant events and reforms, including the introduction of token currency and the construction of new cities.

The decision to shift the capital from Delhi to Devagiri was a bold and ambitious move. Devagiri, located in the Deccan region, was chosen as the new capital because it was considered a strategic location that could help Muhammad Tughlak control the southern parts of his empire more effectively. However, the move was not without its challenges. The new capital faced issues such as a lack of water supply and the difficulty of maintaining communication and supply lines with the rest of the empire. As a result, the capital was eventually shifted back to Delhi.

Understanding the historical context of Muhammad Tughlak's reign and his administrative decisions is crucial for comprehending the broader political and social dynamics of the Delhi Sultanate. The shift of the capital from Delhi to Devagiri is a significant event that reflects the ambitions and challenges faced by medieval Indian rulers in their efforts to consolidate and expand their empires.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Ghiyasuddin Balban was a powerful ruler of the Mamluk dynasty, but he did not shift his capital from Delhi to Devagiri. Balban's reign was marked by consolidation of power and administrative reforms within Delhi.
  • Option B: Jalal-ud-din Khalji was the founder of the Khalji dynasty and ruled from 1290 to 1296. He did not shift the capital from Delhi to Devagiri. His reign was characterized by military campaigns and the expansion of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • Option C: Muhammad Tughlak, the correct answer, shifted his capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad) in 1327. This move was part of his broader administrative reforms and aimed to control the Deccan region more effectively. However, the move was largely unsuccessful and was reversed after a few years.
  • Option D: Sikander Lodi was a ruler of the Lodi dynasty and ruled from 1489 to 1517. He did not shift the capital from Delhi to Devagiri. Sikander Lodi is known for his administrative reforms and the construction of the city of Agra.

Mnemonic: T-M-D: Tughlak Moved to Devagiri

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