The Khalji Dynasty

Summary

The video explores the history of the Khilji Dynasty, focusing on its establishment by Jalaluddin Khilji in 1290 CE and his successor, Alauddin Khilji, who ruled from 1296 to 1316 CE. The Khilji Dynasty is known for its military conquests, market reforms, and innovative administrative policies, such as the standardization of weights and measures, fixed land revenue, and a well-equipped standing army. Despite its short rule, the dynasty left a lasting impact on the region, with Alauddin Khilji's policies influencing later governance. The video also touches on Alauddin’s construction projects and his relationship with the poet Amir Khusro.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jalaluddin Khilji founded the Khilji dynasty in 1290 CE after defeating the Mamluk dynasty's last ruler, Kubard.
• 😀 Alauddin Khilji, born Junakhan, killed his uncle Jalaluddin in 1296 CE to ascend the throne of Delhi.
• 😀 Alauddin Khilji successfully repelled a Mongol invasion and expanded his empire by annexing several Rajput kingdoms.
• 😀 Alauddin Khilji was the first Sultan to launch an expedition into the Deccan region, bringing southern kingdoms under tribute.
• 😀 Alauddin Khilji introduced a robust market system, which included three separate markets for food, expensive cloth, and horses/slaves.
• 😀 He implemented price controls on essential goods and established a standardized system of weights and measures to prevent market exploitation.
• 😀 Alauddin Khilji’s administration included officers called 'Shahnaz' to monitor markets and punish dishonesty.
• 😀 He introduced military reforms, such as a well-equipped standing army, soldiers paid in cash, and the use of imported horses with royal insignia.
• 😀 Alauddin Khilji maintained strict land revenue policies, taking half of a farmer's produce and revoking land grants to religious clerics.
• 😀 His reign saw the construction of significant architectural works, including the unfinished Alai Minar and improvements to the Qutb Minar complex.
• 😀 The Khilji dynasty ruled from 1290 to 1320 CE, significantly shaping administrative, military, and market policies that influenced future rulers.

Q & A

Who founded the Khilji Dynasty?

The Khilji Dynasty was founded by Jalaluddin Khilji in 1290 CE after defeating the last ruler of the Mamluk Dynasty.

How did Jalaluddin Khilji die?

Jalaluddin Khilji was killed by his own nephew, Alauddin Khilji, in 1296 CE.

What is Alauddin Khilji’s birth name?

Alauddin Khilji was born as Junakhan.

What were some key military achievements of Alauddin Khilji?

Alauddin Khilji successfully repelled Mongol invasions, annexed Rajput kingdoms like Ranthambore and Marwar, and was the first Sultan to conduct a Deccan expedition.

What was the significance of Alauddin Khilji’s market policies?

Alauddin Khilji established a well-organized market system with three distinct markets, set price limits for essential goods, and implemented a standardized system of weights and measures to prevent fraud.

Who were the Shahnaz and what was their role?

The Shahnaz were officers appointed by Alauddin Khilji to regulate the markets, ensuring proper pricing and the prevention of cheating.

How did Alauddin Khilji ensure his soldiers' loyalty and prevent fraud?

Alauddin Khilji maintained a standing army, paid soldiers in cash, and provided them with imported horses that were marked with royal insignia. Soldiers were also identified using a system called Cherra.

What land revenue policy did Alauddin Khilji implement?

Alauddin Khilji fixed the state share at 50% of agricultural produce, meaning farmers had to give half of their crops, such as 50 kgs of potatoes, to the Sultan.

What significant constructions did Alauddin Khilji start during his reign?

Alauddin Khilji started the construction of the Alai Minar and contributed to the Qutub Complex in Mehrauli.

What cultural contributions were made during Alauddin Khilji’s reign?

Alauddin Khilji supported the famous Sufi poet Amir Khusro, who was part of his court.