Part of: Delhi Gk set 25

When did Raziya Sultan lose control of Delhi?

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the timeline of the Delhi Sultanate.

Correct Answer: B) 1240 AD.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Raziya Sultan, also known as Razia Sultana, was a significant figure in the history of the Delhi Sultanate. She was the daughter of Iltutmish, the fifth sultan of the Mamluk dynasty, and was chosen by her father to succeed him as the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. However, her ascension to the throne was not without controversy, as she was the first and only female Muslim ruler of Delhi.

Raziya Sultan's reign began in 1236 AD, following the death of her father. She was a capable ruler who implemented several administrative reforms and attempted to strengthen the military. However, her reign was marked by opposition from the nobility, who were uncomfortable with a female ruler. This opposition culminated in a rebellion led by the nobles, which resulted in Raziya Sultan losing control of Delhi in 1240 AD.

The historical context of Raziya Sultan's reign is important to understand the political and social dynamics of the Delhi Sultanate during the 13th century. The Delhi Sultanate was a period of Islamic rule in India, and Raziya Sultan's reign was a notable episode within this broader historical framework. Her reign, though brief, is remembered for its attempts at reform and the challenges it faced due to the prevailing social norms of the time.

Understanding the timeline of Raziya Sultan's reign is crucial for students of Indian history, particularly those preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC. The correct date of 1240 AD for the end of her reign is a key piece of information that helps to contextualize the political events of the Delhi Sultanate and the broader history of medieval India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. The year 1340 AD is much later than the actual period of Raziya Sultan's reign, which ended in 1240 AD. This date is more relevant to the later period of the Delhi Sultanate, possibly during the Tughlaq dynasty.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Raziya Sultan lost control of Delhi in 1240 AD, marking the end of her reign. She was deposed by the nobles who opposed her rule, leading to her eventual defeat and death.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The year 1230 AD is before Raziya Sultan's reign began. She ascended to the throne in 1236 AD, and her reign lasted until 1240 AD.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The year 1236 AD marks the beginning of Raziya Sultan's reign, not the end. She was deposed in 1240 AD, four years after she became sultan.

Mnemonic: Raziya's reign, 1236-1240, remember the end date.

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