Khalji Dynasty is part of Medieval History of India. Below are notes on 9 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Alauddin Khalji's administrative reforms: Land revenue, judiciary, centralisation

  • Increased land revenue demand (kharaj) to one-half (50%) of the produce.
  • Introduced land measurement (Paimaish/ Masahat) as the basis for revenue assessment.
  • Abolished privileges of local revenue collectors (Khuts, Muqaddams, Chaudhuris), forcing them to pay taxes like others.
  • Appointed new revenue officials like 'Mustakhraj' to collect arrears from corrupt officials.
  • Introduced grazing tax (Charai) on cattle and a house tax (Ghari).
  • Curtailed the powers and autonomy of Provincial Governors and local chiefs, bringing their administration under greater central control.
  • Confiscated land grants (Inam, Waqf, Milkiyat) and converted them into Khalisa (crown land) to increase state revenue.
  • Reduced the political influence of the Ulemas and nobility in state administration.
  • Established an elaborate spy system (Barids) for effective central control and monitoring.

Alauddin Khalji's market control and economic reforms: Price regulation, supply management

  • Alauddin Khalji introduced the comprehensive Market Control Policy and Price Control System.
  • Primary objective: Maintain a large, efficient army at lower cost by ensuring cheap and fixed prices for essential commodities, thus enabling soldiers to live comfortably with low salaries.
  • Prices were fixed for various items including food grains (wheat, barley, rice, pulses), sugar (jaggery, refined sugar), cooking oil, cloth, horses, cattle, slaves, and general merchandise.
  • Three distinct markets were established:
    • `Mandi`: For food grains.
    • `Sarai-i-Adl`: For expensive items like cloth, sugar, and oil.
    • A third market specifically for horses, slaves, and cattle.
  • Supply Management: Land revenue was largely collected in kind (grain) from the Doab region to fill state granaries, ensuring consistent supply.
  • Strict administrative control and enforcement:
    • `Diwan-i-Riyasat`: Overall supervisor of the market department.
    • `Shahna-i-Mandi`: Superintendent posted in each market to enforce price regulations, ensure proper weights, and prevent hoarding.
    • `Barids` (secret informers) and `Munhiyans` (secret spies) provided intelligence on market activities.
  • Severe punishments were meted out for violations, such as short-weighing or charging higher prices.

Alauddin Khalji's military campaigns and territorial expansion (North India and Deccan)

  • Alauddin Khalji was the first Turkish conqueror to cross the Vindhya Ranges and the first Sultan to extensively organize expeditions to conquer the Deccan.
  • First major Muslim incursion into the Deccan (Devagiri) occurred in 1296, led by Alauddin Khalji (then governor of Kara) during the reign of Jalaluddin Khalji.
  • North Indian Campaigns (Chronological):
    • Gujarat (1299): Led by Ulugh Khan and Nusrat Khan. Ended the Vaghela dynasty, annexed Gujarat to Delhi Sultanate. Malik Kafur was captured during this campaign.
    • Jaisalmer (1299/1306-07): Bhati women performed Jauhar.
    • Ranthambore (1301):
      • Ruler: Hammirdev.
      • Jalaluddin Khalji's earlier attempt failed (he stated, "I do not give as much importance to even ten such forts as a single hair of a Muslim.").
      • Alauddin's campaign was provoked by Hammirdev sheltering Mongol general Muhammad Shah.
      • Nusrat Khan was killed by a manjaniq stone during the siege.
      • Rao Hammirdev was betrayed by his ministers Ranmal and Ratipal.
      • After conquest, charge of the fort was given to Ulugh Khan.
    • Chittor (1303):
      • Ruler: Rana Ratan Singh.
      • Commander Gora and Badal died fighting Alauddin's army.
      • Historian Amir Khusrau accompanied the expedition and described it in his work Khazainul-Futuh (or Tarikh-i-Alai).
      • Chittor was renamed Khizrabad after Alauddin's son, Khizr Khan.
    • Malwa (1305): Ruler: Mahalakdev. Conquered by Ain-ul-Mulk Multani.
    • Siwana (1308): Ruler: Sheetal Dev. Renamed Khairabad.
    • Jalore (1311):
      • Ruler: Kanhad Dev.
      • Earlier, in 1298, Khilji generals Ulugh Khan and Nusrat Khan were defeated by Kanhad Dev's forces near Jalore.
      • Final campaign led by Malik Kamal-ud-Din Gurg.
      • Local man Dahiya Sejwal Bikram betrayed the fort's defenses.
      • Shams Khan (nephew of Ulugh Khan) was captured by Kanhad Dev's army near Merta.
      • Jalore was renamed Jalalabad after its conquest.
      • The conquest is narrated in Kanhaddev Prabandh (by Padmanabha) and Viramdev Sonagara Ri Baat.
  • Deccan Campaigns:
    • Chief General for most Deccan campaigns: Malik Kafur (also known as Malik Naib).
    • Amir Khusrau stated, "Victory of Mandu was the key of Victory of South."
    • Devagiri (Yadavs): Ruler: Rai Ramachandra.
      • 1296: First raid by Alauddin (as governor).
      • 1307: Malik Kafur's campaign, securing allegiance of Ramachandra.
      • 1309: Another campaign by Malik Kafur to use Devagiri as a base for further southern expeditions.
      • 1313: Malik Kafur launched a final campaign, ending the Yadav dynasty.
    • Warangal (Kakatiyas): Ruler: Prataparudra II.
      • 1303: Alauddin's initial army was defeated by Kakatiya forces.
      • 1309-1310: Successful campaign by Malik Kafur, resulting in vast plunder.
    • Dwarasamudra (Hoysalas) (1311): Conquered by Malik Kafur. Ruler: Ballala III.
    • Madurai (Pandyas) (1311): Conquered by Malik Kafur, reaching the southernmost tip of India. Contributed to the final decline of the Pandya kingdom.

Jalaluddin Khalji: Policies, character, and initial challenges

  • Founded the Khalji Dynasty in 1290 CE, replacing the Mamluk dynasty.
  • Ascended the throne at an advanced age (around 70), making him the oldest ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • Before becoming Sultan, he served as Ariz-iMumalik (Minister of War) under Kaiqubad and Governor of Samana.
  • Known for his mild, benevolent, and merciful character, a departure from earlier autocratic rulers.
  • Adopted the policy of "Rasm-e-Miyana" (policy of moderation or middle path).
  • Initially faced resistance and resided in Kilokheri Palace for about a year before entering Delhi.
  • Dealt with Mongol invasions, notably by Abdullah in 1292 CE, allowing some Mongols to settle near Delhi (known as 'New Muslims').
  • Undertook an unsuccessful expedition and siege of Ranthambore Fort (1291-92 CE), which was ruled by Hammir Dev.
  • Abandoned the Ranthambore siege, famously stating he "did not value a hundred such forts more than a single hair of a Muslim."
  • Executed Sufi Saint Sidi Maula for alleged conspiracy and rebellion, a significant departure from his usual clemency.
  • Assassinated in 1296 CE by his nephew and son-in-law, Alauddin Khalji, at Kara.

Social and economic conditions during the Khalji period

  • Economic Reforms (Alauddin Khalji):
    • Market Control Policy: Aimed at maintaining a large army with low salaries by fixing prices of all essential commodities (grains, cloth, horses, slaves, cattle).
    • Established separate markets: Mandi (for grains), Sarai-Adl (for cloth and other goods).
    • Appointed officials like Diwan-i-Riyasat (overall market controller), Shahna-i-Mandi (superintendent of grain market), Barids (intelligence officers), and Munhiyans (secret spies) for strict enforcement.
    • Imposed severe punishments for shortweighting or cheating.
    • Maintained government grain storage for supply stability during famines.
    • Required land revenue to be collected largely in cash to ensure peasants sold their produce in controlled markets.
    • Agrarian Reforms:
    • Introduced land measurement (Biswa as a unit) for revenue assessment.
    • Fixed land revenue (Kharaj) at 50% of the produce.
    • Introduced Ghari (house tax) and Charai (pasture tax).
    • Abolished special privileges of Khuts, Muqaddams, and Chaudhries (village headmen); they were taxed like common cultivators.
    • Created Diwan-i-Mustakhraj, a department to recover arrears from corrupt revenue officials.
  • Social Conditions (Alauddin Khalji):
    • Suppression of Nobility: Confiscated jagirs and wealth of nobles, banned social gatherings (feasts, drinking), prohibited secret marriages among nobles to prevent conspiracies.
    • Implemented an extensive espionage system to monitor nobles and officials.
    • Ulema: Alauddin curtailed the political influence of the Ulema, asserting the state's authority over religious dictates in governance.
    • Peasantry: Heavily taxed; their economic condition was generally poor due to high revenue demands.
    • Slavery: Remained a significant part of society, with prominent figures like Malik Kafur rising through its ranks.
  • Cultural/Intellectual Context:
    • Prominent writers and poets patronized during this period included Amir Khusrau (known for Khazain-ul-Futuh) and Amir Hasan Sijzi.
    • Gizali was a famous writer during Alauddin Khalji's period.

Successors of Alauddin Khalji: Mubarak Khalji and Khusrau Khan

  • Shihabuddin Umar, son of Alauddin Khalji and Jhatyapali (daughter of Raja Ramchandra Dev of Devagiri), briefly succeeded Alauddin Khalji.
  • Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji, another son of Alauddin, soon usurped the throne from Shihabuddin Umar.
  • Qutbuddin Mubarak Khalji declared himself "Khalifa" (Caliph) and assumed titles like "al-Wasiq billah".
  • Mubarak Khalji showed no consideration to the name of the Caliph, asserting his own supreme religious and political authority.
  • Nasiruddin Khusrau Shah (originally Khusrau Khan), a Hindu convert from Gujarat, usurped the throne from Mubarak Khalji.
  • During Nasiruddin Khusrau Shah's reign, Hindu gods and goddesses were worshipped in royal palaces.

The Khalji Revolution and the rise of the Khalji Dynasty

The Khalji Dynasty ruled the Delhi Sultanate 1. from 1290 A.D. to 1320 A.D. The "Khalji Revolution" refers to the over2. throw of the Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty by Jalal-ud-din Firuz Khalji in 1290 A.D. This event marked the end of the Ilbari 3. Turkish nobility's monopoly on power and positions within the Delhi Sultanate. Jalal-ud-din Firuz Khalji became the founder 4. and first Sultan of the Khalji Dynasty. The rise of the Khaljis, considered to be of a 5. lower social status by the established Turkish nobility, signified a shift towards a more inclusive ruling class, opening avenues for non-Turks.

The Mongol threat and Alauddin Khalji's frontier policy

  • Mongol threat to India's NW frontier existed even before Khaljis (e.g., Balban, Iltutmish).
  • Jalal-ud-din Khalji (1290-1296): Faced Mongol invasions, notably by Abdullah (1292) and Ulghu (Ulugh Khan), who settled near Delhi as 'New Muslims'.
  • Alauddin Khalji (1296-1316): Faced numerous Mongol invasions, most severe between 1297-1307.
  • Key Mongol invasions during Alauddin's reign:
    • 1297-98: Zafar Khan defeated Mongols at Jaran Manjur.
    • 1299: Qutlugh Khwaja besieged Delhi; Zafar Khan died.
    • 1303: Targhi besieged Delhi, forcing Alauddin to retreat to Siri fort; city plundered.
  • Alauddin's Frontier Policy (Post-1303):
    • Fortification: Extensive repair of old forts, construction of new ones in Punjab, Multan, Sindh, Samana, Dipalpur, Lahore.
    • Garrisoning: Strong garrisons with large, well-equipped armies posted in frontier forts.
    • Special Governors: Appointment of a special governor (Warden of the

4. Tughluq Dynasty

Practice MCQs: Khalji Dynasty

Alauddin Khalji: Usurpation and consolidation of power

  1. Identify the person from the description given below : a. He destroyed the dominance of Ulemas in the State. b. He was a mighty warrior and a successful general. c. He was supposed to be the first Sultan to attack the Southern kingdoms. d. The famous poet Amir Khusro was in his court.

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Altamash
    2. Muhamad Tughlaq
    3. Alauddin Khilji
    4. Qutubuddin Aibak
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Alauddin Khilji

    Alauddin Khilji was known for his administrative reforms, including market control and assertion of state authority, often disregarding the advice and dominance of the Ulemas (religious scholars). He was a brilliant military strategist and his general, Malik Kafur, led successful expeditions into the Deccan, making Alauddin the first Sultan to effectively invade and extract tribute from the southern kingdoms. The renowned poet Amir Khusro was indeed a prominent figure in his court.

  2. Who was known as ‘Hazar-Dinari’ ?

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Balban
    2. Malik Kafur
    3. Sikandar Lodi
    4. Qutubuddin Aibak
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Malik Kafur

    Malik Kafur rose to become a highly influential figure and military commander under Alauddin Khalji, leading major campaigns into South India and becoming the viceroy of the vast southern territories.

  3. Malik Kafur was general of

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. Firuz Shah Tughlag
    2. Chandragupta Maurya
    3. Bimbisara
    4. Alauddin Khilji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Alauddin Khilji

    Malik Kafur was a prominent and highly successful general of the Delhi Sultanate ruler Alauddin Khilji. Originally a slave, he rose through the ranks due to his military capabilities and loyalty.

  4. Ala-ul-Mulk, the Kotwal of Delhi, advised Alauddin Khilji to implement which of the following in lieu of establishing a new religion and postponing his plan of world conquest like Alexander? Select the correct code - - I. Making the route of Multan safe - II. Bringing all the regions of Hindustan under his control - III. Building a palace at Siri

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Archivist) 2024

    1. (1) I, II, III
    2. (2) II, III
    3. (3) I, II
    4. (4) I, III
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (4) I, III

    Ala-ul-Mulk's advice to Alauddin Khilji emphasized pragmatism and consolidation of power over grand, potentially destabilizing ambitions. The focus was on securing the realm and strengthening the existing administrative and military structures.

  5. Who among the following assumed the titles of "Yamin-ul-Khilafat" and "Nasir-e-amir-ul- Momineen"?

    Asked in: RO ARO pre 2023

    1. Balban
    2. Nasiruddin Mahmud
    3. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
    4. Alauddin Khalji
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Balban

    Balban adopted the titles "Yamin-ul-Khilafat" and "Nasir-e-Amir-ul-Momineen" to legitimize his rule and assert his position as a strong leader in the Islamic world.

Alauddin Khalji's administrative reforms: Land revenue, judiciary, centralisation

  1. The Sultan who is said to have raised the land revenue to one-half of the produce was

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Balban
    2. Ala-ud-din Khilji
    3. Muhammad bin Tughluq
    4. Firuz Tughluq
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Ala-ud-din Khilji

    This high rate of taxation, along with the abolition of intermediaries and collection based on measurement, was a hallmark of Ala-ud-din Khilji's revenue policy known as 'kharaj-i-jiziya'.

  2. Consider the following statements connected with Alauddin Khilji : I -He collected revenue by measuring the cultivated land. II- He enforced revenue measures in his entire empire. III-He abolished the powers of Provincial Governors. select the correct answer from coding scheme given below:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1994

    1. I and II
    2. II and III
    3. I AND III
    4. I, II and III
    Show answer

    Answer: A. I and II

    Statement I: Alauddin Khilji introduced significant land revenue reforms. He ordered the measurement of cultivated land as the basis for assessing revenue, replacing older systems based on sharing or fixed demands. This system was known as 'Masahat'. This statement is true. Statement II: Alauddin Khilji implemented his stringent revenue measures and administrative controls over a large part of his empire, particularly the core areas directly under central authority, to ensure maximum revenue collection and control over resources. While complete, uniform enforcement across every single remote corner might have been challenging, his efforts to centralize control and enforce policies were extensive and effective in the administered regions. This statement is largely true in the context of his reign. Statement III: Alauddin Khilji did not abolish the powers of Provincial Governors (Muqtis or Walis). Instead, he brought them under stricter central control, curbed their autonomy, and curtailed their ability to misuse funds or raise private armies. He also significantly reduced the powers and privileges of local intermediaries like Khuts, Muqaddams, and Chaudharies who were collecting land revenue. He did not abolish the office of Governor itself. This statement is false.

Alauddin Khalji's market control and economic reforms: Price regulation, supply management

  1. For which of the following items, Alauddin Khilji sought to fix the cost? (i) Sugarcane (ii) Diamond (iii) Grain (iv) Fish Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2022

    1. Only (ii) and (iii)
    2. Only (i) and (ii)
    3. Only (i), (iii) and (iv)
    4. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Only (i), (iii) and (iv)

    Alauddin Khilji instituted comprehensive market reforms aimed at fixing the prices of essential commodities, primarily to maintain a large and affordable army. Statement (iii) is correct; grain was a major focus of his price control measures, with prices fixed for various types of cereals. While less prominently mentioned than grain and cloth in some accounts, his regulations covered a wide range of goods. Statement (i) (Sugarcane) and (iv) (Fish) are plausible items that could fall under the category of foodstuffs or agricultural produce whose prices were regulated in a comprehensive system aimed at controlling the cost of living. Statement (ii) (Diamond) is incorrect; luxury items like diamonds were not subject to these price controls, which focused on necessities and items required for the state's military and economic stability.

  2. Consider the following statements regarding Alauddin Khalji. 1. He set up three distinct markets one for food grains, one for cloth and the third for horses. 2. A Shahna was posted in the market. 3. The Peasants had to pay land revenue in kind. 4. Slaves were transacted in market during his time. Which of the following are correct?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. 1, 2 and 3
    2. 2, 3 and 4
    3. 1, 2 and 4
    4. Only 1 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 1, 2 and 4

    Alauddin Khalji implemented stringent market control policies to ensure goods were available at fixed prices, primarily to maintain a large standing army at a lower cost. He established separate markets for different commodities, including grain (mandi), cloth and general merchandise (Sarai-i- adl), and horses, slaves, and cattle. Officials like Shahna-i-Mandi were appointed to oversee these markets and enforce regulations. The sale and purchase of slaves were common practices in medieval markets, including those under Alauddin Khalji.

  3. Who introduced Market Control Policy?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
    2. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
    3. Alauddin Khalji
    4. Sikandar Lodi
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Alauddin Khalji

    Alauddin Khalji of the Delhi Sultanate introduced stringent market control policies. These measures were primarily aimed at regulating the prices of essential commodities to maintain a large standing army at affordable costs.

  4. Which Muslim ruler enforced price control system for the first time ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2008

    1. Alauddin Khilji
    2. Iltutmish
    3. Mohammad-bin-Tughlaq
    4. Sher Shah Suri
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alauddin Khilji

    The primary objective of Alauddin Khilji's price control policy was economic: to maintain a large and efficient standing army at a relatively low cost by ensuring that soldiers could live on their fixed salaries, which were kept deliberately low.

  5. Why did Alauddin Khilji introduce a market policy of fixed prices for food grains ? (1) For better return to the farmers (2) To ensure that consumers can directly purchase from farmers (3) To ensure that the market price is equal to the fair price (4) To ensure that soldiers can live comfortably with low salary

    Asked in: APPSC Group II Prelims 2016

    1. (1)
    2. (2)
    3. (3)
    4. (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (4)

    Alauddin Khilji's primary motivation for introducing strict price controls and market regulations was military. He needed to maintain a large and efficient standing army to face the Mongol invasions and expand his empire. A large army was expensive. By fixing low prices for essential commodities, especially food grains, he ensured that his soldiers, who were paid a relatively low salary in cash, could afford to live comfortably and were not tempted by disaffection or looting due to economic hardship.

  6. Who used to control the markets during Alauddin Khilji?

    Asked in: BJS 2023

    1. Amir-i-mandi
    2. Shahna-i-mandi
    3. Malik-i-mandi
    4. Wazir-i-mandi
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Shahna-i-mandi

    Alauddin Khilji introduced market reforms and appointed officials to control prices and supply. The 'Shahna-i-mandi' was the Superintendent of the Market, responsible for overseeing market activities and ensuring compliance with regulations.

  7. In the history of India, who among the following is famous for the policy of market control ?

    Asked in: Civil Judge (Junior Division) Exam 2008

    1. Balban
    2. Akbar
    3. Sher Shah
    4. Allauddin Khilji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Allauddin Khilji

    Allauddin Khilji's market reforms were aimed at ensuring the affordability of essential goods for his soldiers and the general populace, maintaining economic stability, and controlling inflation.

Alauddin Khalji's military campaigns and territorial expansion (North India and Deccan)

  1. The first Turkish conqueror to cross Vindhya Ranges was

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Iltutmish
    2. Balban
    3. Alauddin Khilji
    4. Firuz Shah Tughlaq
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Alauddin Khilji

    Alauddin Khilji's Deccan campaigns, led primarily by his general Malik Kafur, marked the first major incursions by Delhi Sultans into the peninsular region.

  2. Malik Kafur was the General of

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Qutb-ud-din
    2. Alauddin
    3. Ibrahim Lodi
    4. Akbar
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Alauddin

    Malik Kafur was a prominent and trusted general of Sultan Alauddin Khilji of the Delhi Sultanate. Originally a slave captured during Alauddin's campaign, he rose through the ranks and became a military commander.

  3. Who said that "Victory of Mandu was the key of Victory of South" ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Malik Kafur
    2. Sheetal Dev
    3. Enulmulk Multani
    4. Amir Khusro
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Amir Khusro

    Amir Khusro, the court poet and chronicler of Alauddin Khalji, documented the Sultan's campaigns in his works, such as 'Khazain-ul-Futuh'. While the exact quote may be a summarized interpretation, the sentiment reflecting Mandu's importance as a gateway or strategic base for southern expeditions is conveyed in the historical accounts of the period, often associated with Khusro's writings.

  4. Arrange the following conquests of Alauddin Khilji in chronological order. 1. Ranthambor 2. Gujarat 3. Warangal 4. Chittor Select the correct answer from the code given below: Code: (a) 1, 3, 2, 4 (c) 2, 1, 4, 3 (b) 3, 4, 1, 2 (d) 4, 2, 3, 1

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2022

    1. 1, 3, 2, 4
    2. 3, 4, 1, 2
    3. 2, 1, 4, 3
    4. 4, 2, 3, 1
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 2, 1, 4, 3

    The chronological order of Alauddin Khilji's conquests is: Gujarat (1299-1300), Ranthambor (1301), Chittor (1303), and Warangal (First expedition 1309-1310).

  5. Whose army was defeated by the army of Kakatiya rulers in 1303 at Warangal ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2017

    1. of Iltutmish
    2. of Balban
    3. of Alauddin Khalji
    4. of Muhammad Tughlaq
    Show answer

    Answer: C. of Alauddin Khalji

    In 1303, Sultan Alauddin Khalji of the Delhi Sultanate sent an army under Malik Juna (also known as Malik Fakhruddin Jauna) to invade the Kakatiya kingdom of Warangal. However, the Kakatiya army, under King Prataparudra II, successfully defended their fort and repulsed the Delhi Sultanate forces. This was one of the early attempts by the Delhi Sultanate to conquer the Deccan kingdoms.

  6. The first Muslim incursions on Deccan occurred during the reign of

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Balban
    2. Raziya
    3. Jalaluddin Khalji
    4. Firoz Tughluq
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Jalaluddin Khalji

    While there might have been earlier skirmishes, the first major military expedition into the Deccan from the North was led by Alauddin Khalji (then nephew and son-in-law of Sultan Jalaluddin Khalji) against Devagiri (capital of the Yadava kingdom) in 1296. This marked the beginning of the Delhi Sultanate's expansion into South India.

  7. The commander of Alauddin Khilji’s forces during his Deccan campaigns was

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Ainul Mulk Multani
    2. Nusrat Khan
    3. Malik Kafur
    4. Ulugh Khan
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Malik Kafur

    Malik Kafur was a prominent general under Alauddin Khilji. He led several successful military expeditions into the Deccan region between 1308 and 1311, defeating kingdoms like Devagiri, Warangal, Hoysala, and Madurai, and bringing immense wealth back to Delhi.

  8. Name the Sultan who first organised expeditions to conquer the Deccan.

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. Alauddin Khalji
    2. Balban
    3. Firuz-Tughluq
    4. Md. Bin-Tughlak
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alauddin Khalji

    - Alauddin Khalji's Deccan campaigns began before his ascent to the throne (e.g., Devagiri in 1296) and intensified after he became Sultan. - His primary motivation was wealth (looting temples and treasuries) and expanding the influence of the Delhi Sultanate. - Balban focused primarily on consolidating the state in North India and dealing with the Mongol threat. Firuz Tughluq was less expansionist, and Muhammad bin Tughluq continued attempts at control but faced rebellions.

  9. The Chola Kingdom was finally finished by —

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2008

    1. Mahmud Ghaznavi
    2. Bakhtiyar Khilji
    3. Muhammad Ghori
    4. Malik Kafur
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Malik Kafur

    - The Chola Empire began to decline in the 13th century. - In the early 14th century (specifically 1311), Malik Kafur led a major expedition into the southernmost parts of India, including the remnants of the Chola territory and the Pandya kingdom. - These invasions weakened the remaining Chola power centers and brought the region under the influence of the Delhi Sultanate, effectively ending the independent Chola rule.

  10. Ramchandra Yadav, who faced Alauddin's invasion was the ruler of

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2021

    1. Devgiri
    2. Malwa
    3. Ujjain
    4. Telengana
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Devgiri

    - Ramachandra was the Yadava king of Devagiri during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. - Alauddin Khalji led a surprise raid on Devagiri in 1296, forcing Ramachandra to pay tribute. - Later, during Alauddin's reign as Sultan, further expeditions were sent to Devagiri due to non-payment of tribute and sheltering of a fugitive king, leading to the eventual annexation of the kingdom.

  11. Who invaded South India?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2023

    1. Balban
    2. Iltutmish
    3. Qutb-ud-Din Aibak
    4. Alauddin Khilji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Alauddin Khilji

    Under Alauddin Khilji, his general Malik Kafur led extensive campaigns into the Deccan and regions further south, subjugating kingdoms like the Yadavas of Devagiri, Kakatiyas of Warangal, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra, and Pandyas of Madurai.

Jalaluddin Khalji: Policies, character, and initial challenges

  1. Consider the following statements: (1) "Tuzuk-i-Baburi" was written in Pure Persian Language (2) Poet Amir Khusro's first Masnavi on Historical subject is Qiran-us-Sadain, which was written in 1289 (3) "Jhanjhari Masjid" at Jaunpur was built by Hussain Shah (4) Sufi Saint Sidi Maula was put to death by Sultan Jalaluddin Khalji for attempting a rebellion Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2023

    1. (1) and (4) only
    2. (3) and (4) only
    3. (2) and (3) only
    4. (2) and (4) only
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (2) and (4) only

    - Baburnama is a key primary source for the history of Babur's reign, written in Turkic. - Amir Khusro was a prolific poet and historian during the Delhi Sultanate, known for his historical masnavis. - The Sharqi dynasty rulers of Jaunpur were patrons of art and architecture, building several notable mosques. - The incident involving Sidi Maula highlights the political tensions and power struggles during the early Khalji period.

  2. Who was the ruler of Ranthambore at the time of the expedition of Sultan Jalal-ud-din Khalji ?

    Asked in: Asst. Statistical Officer 2

    1. Govind Raj
    2. Veer Narayan
    3. Hammir
    4. Ratipal
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Hammir

    Hammir Dev Chauhan was the ruler of Ranthambore during the reign of Jalal-ud-din Khalji.

  3. Which of the following ruler adopted the policy of "Rasm – e – Miyana"? - (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Assistant Archivist) 2024

    1. Alauddin Khalji
    2. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
    3. Jalaluddin Khalji
    4. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Jalaluddin Khalji

    Jalaluddin Khalji adopted the policy of "Rasm – e – Miyana" (middle path/moderate policy).

  4. सुल्तान बनने से पहले Ǔनम्नͧलͨखित में से ͩकिसने किड़ा किे गवनर्नर किे रूप में भी किा™र्न ͩकि™ा था ?

    Asked in: Assistant Prosecuting Officer (APO) Exam 2021

    1. इल्तुतlमिश
    2. जलालुद्दीन lख़िलजी
    3. lसिकन्दर लोदी
    4. अलाउद्दीन lख़िलजी
    Show answer

    Answer: D. अलाउद्दीन lख़िलजी

    अलाउद्दीन lखिलजी सिुल्तान बनने सिे पहले कड़ा का गवनर्नर था।

Social and economic conditions during the Khalji period

  1. 'Gizali' was the famous writer during whose period?

    Asked in: Civil Judge 2022

    1. Balban
    2. Alauddin Khalji
    3. Akbar
    4. Jahangir
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Alauddin Khalji

    This question probes knowledge about literary and intellectual figures associated with rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. It's important to note that Ghazali himself was not a contemporary writer during Alauddin Khalji's reign but his significant scholarly work and influence made him a relevant figure. Some interpretations might consider writers patronized by these rulers. However, given the options, Ghazali's influence on Islamic scholarship during that era is the most likely connection.

Successors of Alauddin Khalji: Mubarak Khalji and Khusrau Khan

  1. Which one of the following sons of Alauddin Khalji was born of his wife Jhatyapali, the daughter of Raja Ramchandra Dev of Devagiri ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2009

    1. Shihabuddin Umar
    2. Khizr Khan
    3. Qutbuddin Mubarak
    4. Sadi Khan
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Shihabuddin Umar

    Alauddin Khalji had several sons. Shihabuddin Umar was a son born to his wife Jhatyapali, who was the daughter of Raja Ramchandra Dev of Devagiri. Raja Ramchandra Dev was the Yadava ruler of Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad). Alauddin Khalji campaigned against Devagiri multiple times. After one such campaign, Jhatyapali was taken to Delhi and married to Alauddin. Upon Alauddin's death, the eunuch Malik Kafur enthroned the young Shihabuddin Umar as sultan and acted as regent.

  2. Who was the Sultan who did not show any consideration to the name of Caliph?

    Asked in: JUNIOR laboratory assistant 2025

    1. Alauddin Khilji
    2. Gheyasuddin Tughlaq
    3. Firozshah Tughlaq
    4. Qutbudddin Mubarak Khilji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Qutbudddin Mubarak Khilji

    The question pertains to the sovereignty and legitimacy of the Delhi Sultans in relation to the Abbasid Caliphate, which was theoretically the ultimate religious authority.

  3. Which Ruler of Delhi Sultanate declared himself as "Khalifa" ? (a) Balban (b) Alauddin Khilji (c) Mubarak Khilji (d) Muhammad bin Tuglaq

    Asked in: RO ARO 2020

    1. Balban
    2. Alauddin Khilji
    3. Mubarak Khilji
    4. Muhammad bin Tuglaq
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Mubarak Khilji

    Mubarak Khilji of the Khilji dynasty assumed the title of "Khalifa" during his reign, signifying his claim to supreme religious and temporal authority.

  4. During the reign of which of the following Sultan of Delhi, Hindu gods and goddesses were worshipped in royal palaces?

    Asked in: RO ARO pre 2021

    1. Qutb-ud-din Mubarak Khilji
    2. Nasiruddin Mahmud
    3. Nasiruddin Khusro Shah
    4. Alauddin Masud Shah
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Nasiruddin Khusro Shah

    Nasiruddin Khusro Shah's rule (1320 CE) was marked by his Hindu origins and a brief period where Hindu deities were venerated, even within royal precincts, a deviation from the typical Islamic practices of the Delhi Sultanate.

The Khalji Revolution and the rise of the Khalji Dynasty

  1. The rule of Khilji dynasty was during the following period :

    Asked in: Protection Officer 2018

    1. From 1290 A.D. upto 1320 A.D.
    2. From 1280 A.D. upto 1323 A.D.
    3. From 1270 A.D. upto 1310 A.D.
    4. From 1290 A.D. upto 1330 A.D.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. From 1290 A.D. upto 1320 A.D.

    The Khilji dynasty overthrew the Mamluk dynasty and was itself later overthrown by the Tughlaq dynasty. The dates 1290-1320 A.D. accurately define the span of their rule.

The Mongol threat and Alauddin Khalji's frontier policy

  1. With reference to Indian history, consider the following statements : 1. The first Mongol invasion of India happened during the reign of Jalal-ud-din Khalji. 2. During the reign of Ala-ud-din Khalji, one Mongol assault marched up to Delhi and besieged the city. 3. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq temporarily lost portions of north-west of his kingdom to Mongols. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2022

    1. 1 and 2
    2. 2 only
    3. 1 and 3
    4. 3 only
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 only

    Statement 1 is incorrect. The first significant Mongol invasion of India occurred during the reign of Iltutmish when Jalal-ud-din Mangburni of Khwarazm sought refuge in India, leading to Mongol forces under Genghis Khan appearing on the Indus. The Khalji dynasty came later. Statement 2 is correct. During the reign of Ala-ud-din Khalji, the Delhi Sultanate faced multiple Mongol invasions. A notable invasion led by Targhi in 1303 reached the gates of Delhi and besieged the city, forcing Ala-ud- din to take refuge in the Siri fort. Statement 3 is incorrect. While Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq did face Mongol invasions (e.g., by Tarmashirin), historical accounts suggest he often adopted policies like paying tribute or using diplomacy to repel them, rather than permanently losing significant portions of his core kingdom in the north-west to the Mongols as a result of these invasions. Control over frontier regions was often contested, but a sustained loss of territory to the Mongols during his reign is not a commonly accepted historical fact in the way implied by the statement.

  2. What was the boundry between the Delhi Sultanat and Mangols during the period of Allaudin Khijli after 1306 A.D.?

    1. Beas
    2. Ravi
    3. Indus
    4. Sutluj
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Beas