Explanations:The Khalji dynasty was a significant ruling dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate in medieval India, which lasted from 1290 to 1320 CE. The dynasty was founded by Jalaluddin Khalji, who established the Khalji rule in Delhi. However, the most powerful ruler of the Khalji dynasty was Alauddin Khalji, who succeeded Jalaluddin and significantly expanded the empire through military conquests and implemented important administrative reforms.
Alauddin Khalji's reign is marked by his military campaigns, which extended the Delhi Sultanate's territory to the Deccan and southern India. He conquered the kingdoms of Devagiri, Warangal, and Dwarasamudra, thereby expanding the Sultanate's control over a vast region. His military successes were facilitated by his efficient and well-organized army, which he maintained through a system of strict discipline and regular pay.
In addition to his military conquests, Alauddin Khalji also implemented several administrative reforms. He established a centralized system of administration, which included the introduction of a new land revenue system known as the "Zabt" system. This system aimed to increase the Sultanate's revenue by accurately assessing the land and its produce. He also introduced a system of price control to stabilize the economy and ensure the availability of essential goods at reasonable prices.
Alauddin Khalji's reign was characterized by his strong and centralized rule, which allowed him to maintain control over the vast territories he had conquered. His military and administrative reforms laid the foundation for the Delhi Sultanate's power and influence in the region. Therefore, Alauddin Khalji is considered the most powerful ruler of the Khalji dynasty.
It is important to distinguish Alauddin Khalji from other figures mentioned in the options. Jalaluddin Khalji, while the founder of the dynasty, did not have the same level of military and administrative achievements as Alauddin. Malik Kafur was a general under Alauddin Khalji and played a significant role in military campaigns, but he was not a ruler. Firoz Shah Tughlaq, mentioned in the options, belonged to the Tughlaq dynasty, which succeeded the Khalji dynasty, and thus is not relevant to the question.