U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2014

Medieval Social and Religious Classes

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who were called 'Dastar-Bandan'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept In the court of the Delhi Sultanate, different classes of nobility and religious elite were identified by their titles and official dress. 'Dastar-Bandan' was a visual and literal honorific.

Explanation The term translates from Persian as 'turban-wearers'. It specifically referred to the Ulema (religious scholars), judges, and jurists who wore a distinctive turban as a mark of their high education and authority.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: 'Dastar' (turban) + 'Bandan' (to tie/fasten). The tying of the turban was a symbolic act of assuming religious leadership.
Logic 2: They served as consultants to the Sultans on legal and theological matters, distinct from the military nobility (Khans and Maliks).

Active Recall

Question

What was the role of the Ulema in the Sultan's court?

Answer

They were responsible for interpreting the Shariat, managing religious endowments, and providing judicial services as Qazis.

Core Insight

The Dastar-Bandan represented the 'Power of the Pen' and the 'Power of the Faith' in a state otherwise dominated by military 'Power of the Sword'.