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Chhattisgarh P.C.S. Prelims 2008

Balban's Theory of Kingship

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following statements is NOT true about Balban?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Balban was a master of consolidation, but many fundamental Sultanate institutions were already established by his predecessor, Iltutmish.

Explanation The Iqtadari system was formalized and institutionalized by Iltutmish as a way to pay his army and manage land revenue. Balban merely inherited and strictly managed this existing system.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is the 'Not True' statement. Iltutmish is the founder of the Iqtadari system in India.
Logic 2: Statements A, C, and D are correct: Balban claimed the divine status of kingship (Niyabat-e-Khudai), destroyed the Chahalgani (The Forty), and brutally suppressed the rebellion of Tughral Khan in Bengal.

Active Recall

Question

What was 'Niyabat-e-Khudai'?

Answer

It was Balban's theory that the King is the representative of God on Earth, meant to restore the awe and prestige of the Sultanate.

Core Insight

While Balban did not invent the Iqtadari system, he transformed the Sultanate's political culture through his 'Blood and Iron' policy and Persian court rituals.

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