Mahmud Gawan's background and ascent within the Bahmani court.
- Mahmud Gawan, an Iranian trader initially, rose to favor with the Bahmani sultanate.
- Granted the title of Malik-ut-Tujjar, he later became prime minister or Peshwa, dominating state affairs for nearly 20 years.
Military Campaigns and Territorial Expansion
Mahmud Gawan's strategic military engagements and territorial gains.
- Demonstrated Bahmani strength with deep raids into Vijayanagara territories up to Kanchi.
- Overran western coastal areas including Dabhol and Goa, boosting Bahmani overseas trade.
Administrative Reforms
Mahmud Gawan's reforms in governance and financial management.
- Divided the kingdom into eight provinces governed by tarafdars, with fixed salaries and obligations for nobles.
- Implemented measures for efficient land revenue collection and provincial administration.
Cultural Patronage
Mahmud Gawan's contributions to arts and education.
- Built a magnificent madarasa in Bidar, attracting scholars from Iran and Iraq.
- Promoted cultural exchange and scholarly pursuits, enriching Bahmani cultural heritage.
Political Strife and Legacy
Challenges faced by Mahmud Gawan and the aftermath of his tenure.
- Executed due to internal strife and political maneuvering among Bahmani nobles.
- Fragmentation of the Bahmani kingdom into principalities after his demise.
- Legacy of Bahmani cultural influence and its impact on subsequent regional developments.
