History Test - 5

The Delhi Sultanate had rulers in this chronological order-

1. Ilbari  Turks (1206 - 1290)
2. Khaljis (1290 - 1320)
3. Tughlaqs (1320 - 1413)
4. Sayyids (1413 - 1451)
5. Lodhis (1451 - 1526)

Sikander Lodhi, the ablest of the Lodhi Sultans, commissioned the building of the present day city of Agra in 1504 AD. Muhammad bin Tughlaq pursued a harsh taxation policy in doab at the start but later tried to make amends by extending loans called Sandhar to farmers for various purposes like digging wells. Alauddin Khalji didn 't start the practice of old-age pension.

Balban assumed the throne in 1266 and focused on consolidation of the Empire and streamlining of the administration instead of new conquests. Also, Balban ensured fairness in matters of administration and justice and did not differentiate between the high and the low. Balban himself belonged to Turk-i-Chihalgani or the Corps of Forty and worked to liquidate the same because he knew the power of this group.

Mohammad bin Tughlaq wanted to raise a strong army for conquests and increase the revenue and thus he increased the taxes in the doab region. But his timing was wrong as the rains had failed during that period and farmers were under distress. They therefore left their lands and rebellions broke out in doab and many farmers took to highway robbery. As a result of all this, the Sultan became very unpopular amongst the common people.

• Discussion with Jain Saint: Muhammad Tughlaq held discussions with the Jain saint Jinaprabha Suri.


• Jinaprabha Suri: Jinaprabha Suri was a prominent Jain saint known for his philosophical teachings and spiritual wisdom.


• Importance of Discussions: The discussions between Muhammad Tughlaq and Jinaprabha Suri were significant as they highlighted the importance of religious tolerance and dialogue between different faiths.


• Exchange of Ideas: During their interactions, both Muhammad Tughlaq and Jinaprabha Suri shared their perspectives on various philosophical and ethical matters, fostering a sense of mutual understanding and respect.


• Legacy of Jinaprabha Suri: Jinaprabha Suri's teachings continue to inspire followers of Jainism and serve as a reminder of the enduring value of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

Explanation:

• Statement: "India is not Arabia, it is not practically feasible to convert it into Qarul Islam."

• Option A: Iltutmish

• Iltutmish was the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate who ruled from 1211 to 1236.


• During his reign, he faced challenges from the Mongols and had to deal with internal rebellions.


• He was known for his administrative reforms and efforts to strengthen the Sultanate.


• The statement about India not being feasible to convert into Qarul Islam reflects the challenges faced by rulers like Iltutmish in maintaining control over a diverse and vast region like India.


• It highlights the complexities of ruling such a diverse land with different cultures, religions, and practices.

B: Ferdinand Magellan

• He and his crew were the first Europeans to sail around the world, proving that the world is round.


• Magellan searched for a western route to the Moluccas or Spice Islands from 1519 to 1521 with five ships.


• Although Magellan died during the journey, his crew completed the circumnavigation of the globe.

Alauddin Khilji

• Alauddin Khilji was a Muslim ruler who enforced a price control system during his reign in the Delhi Sultanate.


• He implemented various measures to regulate prices and prevent inflation in the market.


• Alauddin Khilji introduced market reforms such as fixing the prices of essential commodities like grains, cloth, and livestock.


• He also established a system of officials known as the diwan-i-riyasat to monitor and enforce price controls.


• Alauddin Khilji's price control system aimed to ensure fair prices for goods and prevent hoarding and exploitation of consumers by merchants.

Emperor Akbar conferred the title of 'Jagat Guru' on Hira Vijay Suri

• Hira Vijay Suri: Emperor Akbar conferred the title of 'Jagat Guru' on Hira Vijay Suri, who was a prominent Jain monk and scholar.


• Significance: The title of 'Jagat Guru' means 'World Teacher' or 'Spiritual Teacher of the World', highlighting Hira Vijay Suri's significant contributions to the Jain community and his spiritual teachings.


• Relation with Emperor Akbar: Emperor Akbar had great respect for scholars and religious leaders from various faiths, and his decision to confer this title on Hira Vijay Suri showcased his religious tolerance and promotion of interfaith dialogue.


• Legacy: Hira Vijay Suri's recognition as 'Jagat Guru' by Emperor Akbar remains a significant historical event that symbolizes the harmony and mutual respect between different religious traditions during the Mughal era.