U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2008

Personality of Muhammad Bin Tughluq

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

'The king was freed from his people and they from their king.' On whose death did Badayuni comment this?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Muhammad-Bin-Tughluq’s reign was plagued by friction between the Sultan's visionary but eccentric policies and the resistance of his subjects, leading to widespread misery.

Explanation Chronicler Abdul Qadir Badauni made this famous remark upon the death of MBT in 1351 CE, following years of famines, rebellions, and the failed transfer of the capital.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: MBT’s idealism led to hardship (e.g., the Doab tax hike during famine), causing the people to resent him.
Logic 2: Conversely, the Sultan felt betrayed by the perceived incompetence and disloyalty of his people, making his death a mutual relief.

Active Recall

Question

Where did Muhammad Bin Tughluq die?

Answer

He died at Thatta (Sindh) while campaigning against a rebel named Taghi.

Core Insight

Badauni's quote encapsulates the tragic disconnect between a brilliant, well-meaning ruler and a population unable or unwilling to follow his radical reforms.