Delhi Sultanate Rulers: Matching List I & II

This question requires matching prominent rulers and figures of the Delhi Sultanate (List I) with their associated achievements, events, or significant appointments (List II). We will use the provided correct option D to establish the matches and provide a brief justification for each.

Match Analysis Based on Option D

Option D proposes the following matches:

• A - II
• B - I
• C - IV
• D - III

A. Qutub-ud-din Aibak - II. Arhai-din-ka Jhonpda

Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, is credited with the construction of several significant monuments. The Arhai-din-ka Jhonpda (meaning 'two and a half day's hut') is a major historical structure located in Ajmer, Rajasthan, which he commissioned.

B. Iltutmish - I. Mongol invasion under Changezkhan

Iltutmish, the successor of Qutub-ud-din Aibak, ruled during a critical period when the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan (Changezkhan) was expanding. While Iltutmish managed to protect the Delhi Sultanate from a direct Mongol invasion, the threat loomed large during his reign.

C. Sultana Razia - IV. Malik Jamal-ud-Din Yakut

Sultana Razia, the only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, appointed Malik Jamal-ud-Din Yakut, an Abyssinian noble, to the important position of Amir-i-Akhur (Superintendent of the Royal Stables). This appointment caused discontent among the Turkish nobility.

D. Balban - III. Practice of Sajda

Ghiyasuddin Balban, a powerful Sultan of the Mamluk dynasty, focused on strengthening the monarchy and consolidating his rule. He introduced Persian courtly practices, including Sajda (prostration before the king) and Paibos (kissing the king's feet), to enhance the royal prestige.

Conclusion

Based on the historical associations, the correct matching is:

• Qutub-ud-din Aibak with Arhai-din-ka Jhonpda (A-II)
• Iltutmish with Mongol invasion under Changezkhan (B-I)
• Sultana Razia with Malik Jamal-ud-Din Yakut (C-IV)
• Balban with Practice of Sajda (D-III)

This corresponds to Option D.