Explanations:Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1325 to 1351, is often described as a 'mixture of opposite' due to the contradictory nature of his policies and actions. This characterization reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of his rule, which included both visionary and impractical decisions.
On one hand, Muhammad Bin Tughlaq was a highly educated and intellectual ruler. He was well-versed in various subjects, including philosophy, mathematics, and medicine. He was also known for his innovative ideas and administrative reforms. For instance, he attempted to introduce paper currency to reduce the burden of transporting heavy coins, and he moved the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad to better control the southern regions of his empire. These actions demonstrate his forward-thinking and progressive approach to governance.
However, his rule was also marked by several impractical and poorly executed decisions. The introduction of paper currency, for example, led to widespread counterfeiting and economic instability. The move of the capital to Daulatabad was met with significant resistance and logistical challenges, leading to the displacement of many people and the weakening of his authority. Additionally, his military campaigns were often unsuccessful, and his policies sometimes resulted in the suffering of his subjects.
These contradictions in his rule have led historians to describe Muhammad Bin Tughlaq as a 'mixture of opposite.' His reign is a prime example of how a ruler can possess both visionary and impractical qualities, and how these qualities can coexist in the same individual. This complexity makes him a fascinating figure in the history of the Delhi Sultanate and a subject of much debate and analysis among historians and students of Indian history.