Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 171

Which ruler shifted his capital from Delhi to Daultabad?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: B) Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The question pertains to a significant historical event in the context of the Delhi Sultanate, specifically the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was a ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty who reigned from 1325 to 1351. He is known for his ambitious administrative reforms and his attempts to centralize power and improve governance across his vast empire.

One of the most notable actions taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was his decision to shift the capital from Delhi to Daultabad (also known as Daulatabad) in the Deccan region. This move was made in 1327 and was intended to consolidate his power and improve control over the southern parts of his empire. Daultabad was chosen because of its strategic location, which was believed to be more central to the empire and easier to defend.

The decision to shift the capital was part of a broader set of reforms aimed at strengthening the administration and improving the efficiency of the state. However, the move was not without its challenges. The relocation of the capital was a massive undertaking that involved the movement of a large number of people, including the royal court, officials, and soldiers. The logistics of such a move were complex and required significant resources.

Despite the initial intentions, the shift to Daultabad did not achieve the desired results. The move was met with resistance from the people and the administration, and it ultimately proved to be a costly and disruptive endeavor. The capital was eventually shifted back to Delhi, but the experience left a lasting impact on the administration and the perception of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's rule.

It is important to note that while Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq is known for this significant action, other rulers of the Delhi Sultanate also made administrative changes and reforms. However, the specific act of shifting the capital from Delhi to Daultabad is uniquely associated with Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq.

Understanding this historical event requires an appreciation of the broader context of the Delhi Sultanate, the challenges of governance in a vast and diverse empire, and the administrative reforms undertaken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. This event is a key part of the study of medieval Indian history and is often tested in competitive examinations that focus on historical knowledge and understanding.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Qutub-din-Aibak did not shift his capital from Delhi to Daultabad. He was the founder of the Delhi Sultanate and ruled from Delhi. This option is incorrect.
  • Option B: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq is the correct answer. He attempted to shift his capital from Delhi to Daultabad in 1327 as part of his administrative reforms. This move was intended to centralize power and improve control over the Deccan region.
  • Option C: Firoj Shah Tughlaq did not shift his capital from Delhi to Daultabad. He was a later ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty and is known for his architectural contributions. This option is incorrect.
  • Option D: Sikander Lodhi did not shift his capital from Delhi to Daultabad. He was a ruler of the Lodi dynasty and ruled from Delhi. This option is incorrect.

Mnemonic: D for Delhi to Daultabad, D for Daulatabad, D for Delhi Sultanate

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