Raziyya Sultan's Reign and Removal from Delhi Sultanate

Raziyya Sultan, also known as Raziyya al-Din, was a significant figure in the history of the Delhi Sultanate. She was the daughter of Sultan Iltutmish and is notable for being the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.

Sultan Iltutmish, recognizing Raziyya's capabilities, nominated her as his successor, bypassing his sons. She ascended the throne of the Delhi Sultanate in the year 1236.

Her reign, however, was short-lived. While she was a capable administrator and military leader, her rule faced strong opposition from the Turkish nobles (the 'Forty' or 'Chahalgani'). They resented being ruled by a woman and disapproved of her attempts to assert her authority and her close relationship with Yaqut, an Abyssinian noble.

This opposition eventually led to her downfall. Raziyya Sultan was removed from the throne of the Delhi Sultanate in the year 1240.

Following her removal, she attempted to regain her throne with the help of Malik Ikhtiyar-ud-din Altunia, the governor of Bathinda, whom she married. However, their forces were defeated, and Raziyya and Altunia were reportedly killed in 1240.

Therefore, the year Raziyya was removed from the throne of the Delhi Sultanate was 1240.

Revision Table: Key Facts on Raziyya Sultan's Reign

• Ruler: Raziyya Sultan
• Dynasty: Mamluk/Slave Dynasty
• Father & Predecessor: Iltutmish
• Year of Ascension: 1236
• Year of Removal: 1240
• Duration of Reign: Approximately 4 years
• Reason for Removal: Opposition from Turkish nobles

Additional Information: Context of Delhi Sultanate Rulers

Raziyya Sultan belonged to the Slave Dynasty (also known as the Mamluk Dynasty), which was the first dynasty to rule the Delhi Sultanate. The sultans of this dynasty were originally slaves who rose to high positions in the service of the Ghurid rulers and eventually established their own independent rule in Delhi.

Important rulers of the Slave Dynasty include:

• Qutb-ud-din Aibak (considered the founder of the Delhi Sultanate)
• Iltutmish (consolidated the Sultanate, father of Raziyya)
• Raziyya Sultan
• Ghiyas ud din Balban (a powerful ruler who strengthened the Sultanate)

Understanding the sequence of rulers helps in placing Raziyya's reign within the broader history of the Delhi Sultanate. Her brief but impactful rule highlights the political complexities and power struggles of the era, particularly the challenges faced by a female ruler in a patriarchal society.