Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 301

Why did muhammed bin tughlaq change his capital

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the external threats faced by the Tughlaq dynasty.

Correct Answer: B) Because of the mongols.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Tughlaq dynasty, which ruled parts of the Indian subcontinent during the 14th century, faced numerous challenges, including external threats from the Mongol Empire. Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the second ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, made several significant decisions during his reign, one of which was the relocation of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad in 1327.

The primary reason for this relocation was the threat posed by the Mongol invasions. The Mongols, under the leadership of Genghis Khan and his successors, had conquered vast territories in Central Asia and had also invaded parts of the Indian subcontinent. The Mongol invasions were a significant concern for the rulers of the Delhi Sultanate, as they threatened the stability and security of the empire.

By moving the capital to Daulatabad, which is located in the Deccan region, Muhammad bin Tughlaq aimed to create a more defensible position against the Mongol threat. Daulatabad was situated in a strategic location that was more difficult for the Mongols to reach, and it was also closer to the southern regions of the empire, which were less vulnerable to Mongol invasions.

It is important to note that while the Mongol threat was the primary reason for the relocation, other factors such as administrative and logistical challenges also played a role. However, the historical records and scholarly consensus indicate that the Mongol threat was the most significant factor in Muhammad bin Tughlaq's decision to move the capital.

Understanding the historical context of the Tughlaq dynasty and the challenges faced by its rulers is crucial for comprehending the strategic decisions made during this period. The relocation of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad is a prime example of how external threats influenced the political and administrative strategies of the rulers of the Delhi Sultanate.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. There is no historical evidence to suggest that Muhammad bin Tughlaq hated Delhi. The decision to move the capital was based on strategic and political reasons rather than personal feelings.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Muhammad bin Tughlaq moved the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad to protect his empire from the Mongol invasions. The Mongols were a significant threat to the stability of the Tughlaq dynasty, and relocating the capital was a strategic move to safeguard the empire.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. While droughts did occur during Muhammad bin Tughlaq's reign, they were not the primary reason for the relocation of the capital. The main reason was the threat posed by the Mongols.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The correct reason for the relocation of the capital is explicitly stated in Option B, which is the threat of Mongol invasions.

Mnemonic: M for Mongols, M for Muhammad bin Tughlaq

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