Explore the expansion of the Delhi Sultanate under Muhammed Bin Tughlaq and his successors from 1324 to 1351. Learn about their rapid territorial expansion and the challenges they faced in maintaining control.

Intellectual Interests and Religious Views: A Scholar-King

• Muhammad bin Tughlaq was well-educated in religion and philosophy, engaging with Muslim mystics, Hindu yogis, and Jain saints like Jinaprabha Suri.
• His openness to different religious perspectives led to criticism from orthodox theologians, who called him a rationalist.

Administrative Experiments: Ambitious Reforms and Unforeseen Consequences

• Capital Transfer: He attempted to move the capital from Delhi to Deogir (renamed Daulatabad) to consolidate control over South India. This faced logistical challenges and discontent, and was eventually abandoned.
• Token Currency: He introduced a token currency of bronze coins due to a silver shortage. However, widespread forgery led to its withdrawal.

Agrarian Policies: Efforts and Setbacks in Agriculture

• Muhammad bin Tughlaq implemented measures to improve agriculture, especially in the doab region.
• He promoted superior crops like wheat and sugarcane. However, over-assessment of taxes, price fixing, and a severe famine hindered these efforts.
• His administration's famine relief efforts were too late to prevent significant loss of life.

Nobility and Social Policies: Challenging Traditional Structures

• Muhammad bin Tughlaq appointed individuals from non-noble backgrounds to the nobility, causing resentment among traditional noble families.

Military and Strategic Initiatives: Expansionist Ambitions and External Threats

• Muhammad bin Tughlaq engaged in military campaigns, facing challenges like Mongol incursions.
• His attempts to expand into regions like Khurasan and Afghanistan faced logistical and strategic difficulties.