M.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2017

Sultanate Nobility and Continuity

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Ain-ul-Mulk Multani did not serve under which of the following rulers?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept High-ranking nobles often served across multiple dynasties, providing administrative continuity. Ain-ul-Mulk Multani was one such legendary bureaucrat and military commander.

Explanation Ain-ul-Mulk Multani began his career under Alauddin Khalji (conquering Malwa for him) and continued to serve with distinction under the Tughluqs (Muhammad bin Tughluq and Firuz Shah Tughluq). He was deceased long after the era of Iltutmish.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option D is correct. Iltutmish ruled from 1211–1236, nearly a century before Multani’s prime active years.
Logic 2: Multani is famous for his role in the administrative transition between the Khaljis and the Tughluqs and his later governorship of Multan.

Active Recall

Question

What was Multani's most significant military achievement for Alauddin?

Answer

He led the successful conquest of the Malwa region and served as its first Sultanate governor.

Core Insight

Ain-ul-Mulk Multani represents the professionalized class of nobles who prioritized state service and loyalty over ethnic or dynastic factionalism.