53rd to 55th B.P.S.C. Prelims 2011

Sultanate Conquest of the Deccan

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who was the ruler of Devagiri at the time of Alauddin Khalji's invasion?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Alauddin Khalji's Deccan policy targeted the wealthy Yadava kingdom of Devagiri as the gateway to the South. The submission of its ruler provided the Sultanate with immense resources and a strategic base.

Explanation Ramachandra Dev (Ramadeva) was the Yadava ruler of Devagiri when Alauddin first raided it as a prince in 1296 and later sent Malik Kafur in 1308. He eventually became a loyal vassal of the Sultan.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option A is correct. Ramachandra was treated with honor by Alauddin and given the title 'Rai Rayan'.
Logic 2: Prataprudra Dev (B) was the ruler of Warangal (Kakatiya), and Malik Kafur (C) was the invader himself.

Active Recall

Question

What title did Alauddin give to Ramachandra Dev?

Answer

He was given the title 'Rai Rayan' and allowed to continue ruling Devagiri as a vassal of the Sultanate.

Core Insight

The cooperative relationship with Ramachandra Dev allowed Alauddin to bypass the logistical difficulties of the Deccan and focus on plundering the further south.