0Alauddin Khilji (1296–1316 CE)
Alauddin Khilji was one of the most powerful rulers of the Delhi Sultanate and the second ruler of the Khilji dynasty. His reign (1296–1316 CE) is remembered for strong centralization, military conquests, market reforms, and administrative innovations that strengthened the Delhi Sultanate’s foundation.
Early Life and Accession
- Alauddin Khilji, originally named Ali Gurshasp, was the nephew and son-in-law of Jalaluddin Khilji, the founder of the Khilji dynasty.
- He was appointed governor of Kara-Manikpur under Jalaluddin’s rule.
- After successfully raiding Devagiri (modern Daulatabad, Maharashtra) in 1294 CE and returning with immense wealth, Alauddin gained fame and ambition.
- He murdered Jalaluddin in 1296 CE and seized the throne of Delhi, assuming the title Sikandar-e-Sani (Second Alexander).
Major Military Campaigns
Alauddin Khilji expanded the Delhi Sultanate to its greatest territorial extent until that time.
1. Northern Expeditions
- Mongol Invasions: Faced multiple Mongol invasions (1297–1308 CE). He successfully repelled them through strong frontier defenses and standing army reforms.
- Major commanders like Zafar Khan and Malik Kafur played key roles in defending Delhi.
2. Western and Central India
- Gujarat (1299 CE): Defeated the Vaghela ruler Rai Karan; captured enormous wealth and slaves, including Malik Kafur, who became his trusted general.
- Ranthambore (1301 CE): Defeated Hammir Dev Chauhan, annexing Ranthambore to the Sultanate.
- Chittor (1303 CE): Conquered from Rana Ratan Singh; legend of Rani Padmini and Jauhar is associated with this siege.
- Malwa (1305 CE): Brought under control after defeating local Rajput chiefs.
3. Southern Expeditions (Deccan Campaigns)
Led by Malik Kafur (1308–1312 CE):
- Devagiri (1308 CE): Defeated Ramachandra Deva again, who later became a vassal.
- Warangal (1309 CE): Defeated Kakatiya ruler Prataparudra Deva and obtained great wealth.
- Dwarasamudra (1310 CE): Defeated Hoysala ruler Ballala III.
- Madurai (1311 CE): Raided the Pandya kingdom; brought immense treasure to Delhi.
These campaigns made Alauddin the first Delhi Sultan to extend his influence deep into the Deccan.
Administrative and Economic Reforms
Alauddin’s reforms aimed to strengthen the Sultanate, prevent rebellions, and ensure stability.
1. Centralized Control
- Abolished the Iqta system for nobles in some regions and directly controlled revenue collection.
- Established an efficient spy system (Barid-e-Mumalik) to monitor officials and nobles.
2. Revenue and Market Reforms
- Introduced strict price control and market regulations in Delhi:
- Fixed prices for grains, cloth, horses, and slaves.
- Established separate markets for different goods.
- Appointed Shahna-e-Mandi (market controller) to enforce rules.
- Land revenue was fixed at half of the produce (50%) in the Doab region (between Ganga and Yamuna).
- Prohibited hoarding, bribery, and private trade by officials.
3. Military Reforms
- Maintained a large standing army, directly paid in cash from the treasury.
- Introduced dagh (branding of horses) and chehra (descriptive register of soldiers) to prevent corruption.
- Increased salaries and emphasized discipline and readiness against Mongols.
4. Social and Political Measures
- Prohibited wine drinking and social gatherings among nobles to prevent conspiracies.
- Controlled marriage alliances and gifts among nobles.
- Strengthened royal authority to curb aristocratic independence.
Religion and Culture
- Though a devout Muslim, Alauddin maintained a secular administrative policy.
- Patronized architecture: built Alai Darwaza, Siri Fort, and started the construction of Alai Minar near Qutub Minar.
- He was not tolerant towards rebellions and maintained strict discipline over subjects.
Decline and Death
- In his later years, Alauddin became suspicious and dependent on Malik Kafur.
- He died in 1316 CE, after which internal conflicts and weak successors led to the decline of the Khilji dynasty.
Legacy
- Alauddin Khilji is remembered as a strong and autocratic ruler who brought administrative discipline and economic stability.
- His market reforms and military organization reflected early state centralization in medieval India.
- His reign marked the zenith of the Khilji dynasty and laid the foundation for the later expansion under the Tughlaqs.
Conclusion:
Alauddin Khilji’s reign stands out in Indian history for its administrative brilliance, military vigor, and economic foresight. Despite his harsh methods, he consolidated the Delhi Sultanate, ensuring its dominance for decades after his death — a testament to his political genius and authoritarian governance.
