Explanation: The concept of the "circle of justice" is a significant aspect of medieval Indian history, particularly during the Delhi Sultanate period. This concept was inscribed by Fakhr-i Mudabbir, a notable historian and scholar of the time, in his work "Iqbalnama." The "circle of justice" describes the ideal relationship between the ruler and his subjects, emphasizing the moral and administrative principles that should govern the state.
Fakhr-i Mudabbir was a contemporary of Sultan Iltutmish, the third ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, and his work "Iqbalnama" provides a detailed account of Iltutmish's reign. The inscription regarding the circle of justice is a key part of this work, highlighting the importance of justice, fairness, and the ruler's responsibility to his subjects. This concept was central to the governance and social structure of the Delhi Sultanate, reflecting the ideals that the rulers aimed to uphold.
It is important to distinguish Fakhr-i Mudabbir from other historians of the period, such as Minhaj-i Siraj, Ziyauddin Barani, and Ibn Battuta. Minhaj-i Siraj is known for his work "Tabaqat-i Nasiri," which provides a comprehensive account of the Delhi Sultanate, while Ziyauddin Barani is recognized for his work "Tarikh-i Firoz Shahi," which focuses on the reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Ibn Battuta, on the other hand, was a traveler who visited the Delhi Sultanate during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughluq and wrote extensively about his experiences.
Understanding the authorship of the inscription regarding the circle of justice is crucial for comprehending the historical context and the principles that guided the administration of the Delhi Sultanate. Fakhr-i Mudabbir's work, "Iqbalnama," remains an important source for studying the governance and social structure of this period in Indian history.