Delhi Sultanate & Regional Kingdoms
Medieval Indian history between the thirteenth and early sixteenth centuries was defined by the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526 CE) across five successive dynasties: Mamluk, Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid, and Lodi. Rulers such as Alauddin Khalji introduced rigorous market control regulations and the Dagh and Chehra military systems, while Muhammad bin Tughlaq implemented ambitious administrative experiments. Concurrently, peninsular India witnessed the heights of imperial Chola maritime trade and temple construction in Thanjavur, followed by the rise of the Vijayanagara Empire founded by Harihara and Bukka in 1336 CE. Vijayanagara reached its peak under Krishnadevaraya of the Tuluva dynasty, fostering sophisticated Nayankara military-agrarian administration and architectural mastery at Hampi.
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- Qutb-ud-din Aibak founded the Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty in 1206 CE and initiated construction of the Qutb Minar in Delhi.
- Alauddin Khalji established price controls and market superintendents (Shahna-i-Mandi) to maintain a standing army.
- The Vijayanagara Empire was founded along the Tungabhadra River in 1336 CE and reached its cultural peak under Krishnadevaraya.
- The Battle of Talikota (Rakshasi-Tangadi) in 1565 CE resulted in the military defeat of Vijayanagara by the allied Deccan sultanates.