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.
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The Reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1324-1351)
Intellectual Interests and Religious Views
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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 earned him criticism from orthodox theologians, who labeled him a rationalist.
Administrative Experiments
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Capital Transfer: He attempted to transfer the capital from Delhi to Deogir (renamed Daulatabad) in an effort to consolidate control over South India. This move aimed to address political unrest in the region but faced logistical challenges and widespread discontent among the population forced to relocate. Ultimately, the plan was abandoned due to administrative difficulties and the impracticality of governing from such a distance.
Token Currency: Muhammad bin Tughlaq introduced a token currency, bronze coins meant to supplement silver currency which was scarce. However, the initiative failed due to rampant forgery and loss of trust in the new coins, leading to its eventual withdrawal.
Agrarian Policies
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Muhammad bin Tughlaq implemented measures to improve agriculture, particularly in the doab region (the fertile land between the Ganges and Yamuna rivers).
His policies included attempts to promote cultivation of superior crops like wheat and sugarcane. However, these efforts were hindered by over-assessment of taxes, artificial price fixing, and a severe famine that devastated the area.
His administration's response to the famine, including efforts to provide relief through advances for cattle, seeds, and well-digging, came too late to prevent significant loss of life.
Nobility and Social Policies
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Muhammad bin Tughlaq made controversial appointments to the nobility, including individuals from non-noble backgrounds such as converts from lower castes (e.g., barbers, weavers, etc.).
This policy caused resentment among traditional noble families, who felt marginalized, and potentially undermined cohesion and loyalty within the administration.
Military and Strategic Initiatives
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Muhammad bin Tughlaq also engaged in military campaigns to expand and secure his empire, facing challenges from external threats such as Mongol incursions into northern India.
His attempts to extend control into regions like Khurasan and Afghanistan were ambitious but faced logistical and strategic challenges, contributing to the complexity of his reign.
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