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Chhattisgarh P.C.S. Prelims 2003

Ambition of the Khaljis

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which Sultan wanted to launch a new religion, but Ulemas opposed the move?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Alauddin Khalji's massive military success led him to harbor extreme ambitions, including world conquest and the creation of a new faith to rival Islam.

Explanation According to the chronicler Ziauddin Barani, Alauddin Khalji considered founding a new religion with the help of his four close friends. However, his loyal advisor and Qazi, Alaul Mulk, persuaded him that religion was a matter of divine revelation, not political decree, and that such a move would lead to total rebellion.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is correct. Alauddin eventually focused on secular statecraft, separating religion from political administration.
Logic 2: This instance highlights that while Alauddin was an absolute autocrat, he was still susceptible to the pragmatic advice of his inner circle regarding social stability.

Active Recall

Question

Why did Alaul Mulk oppose the new religion?

Answer

He argued that religion depends on prophecy and divine sanction, and any attempt to create a man-made faith would alienate the masses and destroy the Sultanate.

Core Insight

Alauddin was the first Sultan to clearly state that state policy (Zawabit) should be dictated by political necessity rather than religious dogma.

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