Which city became an important city only in the 12 century?

Delhi's historical significance as a major city began in the 12th century, marking a pivotal period in its development. Prior to this, Delhi was a minor city, but it gained prominence under the rule of Prithviraj Chauhan, a Rajput king who ruled the Chauhan dynasty. Chauhan's reign was significant as it marked the beginning of Delhi's rise to prominence, but it was the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate that truly transformed the city into a major political and cultural center.

The Delhi Sultanate was founded in 1206 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, a former slave who rose to power and became the first Sultan of Delhi. Aibak's rule marked the beginning of Muslim rule in India and the establishment of a new political and cultural order in Delhi. Under the Delhi Sultanate, Delhi became the capital of a vast empire, attracting scholars, artists, and merchants from across the region. This period saw the construction of several important architectural landmarks, including the Qutb Minar, which remains a symbol of Delhi's historical significance.

It is important to understand the historical context of Delhi's rise to prominence. Prior to the 12th century, Delhi was not a significant city. The city's strategic location on the banks of the Yamuna River and its proximity to the fertile plains of the Ganges made it a suitable location for a capital, but it was the political and cultural developments of the 12th century that truly transformed it. The establishment of the Delhi Sultanate and the subsequent rule of various dynasties, including the Mamluks, Khaljis, Tughlaqs, Sayyids, and Lodis, further solidified Delhi's status as a major city.

Other cities mentioned in the options, such as Jalandhar and Hyderabad, did not become important cities in the 12th century. Jalandhar gained prominence much later, primarily due to its strategic location and industrial development in the 20th century. Hyderabad's historical significance began around the 16th century with the establishment of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Therefore, the correct answer is that Delhi became an important city only in the 12th century, marking a significant turning point in its history.