Explanations:The Delhi Sultanate was a powerful Islamic empire that ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent from the early 13th century to the mid-16th century. During this period, the throne of Delhi was occupied by various rulers, including the first and only female ruler, Razia Sultan.
Razia Sultan, born in 1205, was the daughter of Iltutmish, the fifth sultan of the Mamluk dynasty. Iltutmish was a powerful ruler who had established the Delhi Sultanate and was known for his administrative reforms and military conquests. He had several sons and daughters, but he recognized Razia's exceptional abilities and appointed her as his successor over her brothers.
When Iltutmish died in 1236, Razia Sultan ascended to the throne, becoming the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. Her reign was marked by significant administrative reforms and military campaigns. She attempted to break the traditional norms of the time by appointing capable individuals to positions of power, regardless of their social status. This move was seen as a threat by the nobility, who were accustomed to holding power and influence.
Despite her efforts, Razia Sultan faced numerous challenges during her reign. She was eventually overthrown by a coalition of nobles and military leaders in 1240. Her reign, though short-lived, was significant in the history of the Delhi Sultanate as it marked the first and only instance of a female ruler.
It is important to distinguish Razia Sultan from other notable female rulers in Indian history, such as Rani Chennamma and Rani Laxmi Bai. Rani Chennamma was a queen of the princely state of Kittur in Karnataka and is known for her resistance against the British East India Company. Rani Laxmi Bai, the queen of Jhansi, was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and is celebrated for her bravery and leadership. However, neither of these rulers sat on the throne of Delhi.
Understanding the historical context and the specific rulers of the Delhi Sultanate is crucial for correctly identifying Razia Sultan as the first and only female ruler of Delhi. This knowledge is essential for students studying Indian history and for those preparing for competitive examinations that cover historical topics.