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UPSC CSE Prelims 1997

Balban's Theory of Kingship

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

After consolidating his power, Balban assumed the grand title of-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Balban believed in the divine right of kings. To restore the prestige of the Sultanate after the chaos of the successors of Iltutmish, he introduced rituals and titles to elevate the monarch's status.

Explanation Historical texts record that Balban called himself 'Zil-e-Ilahi' (Shadow of God) and 'Niyabat-i-Khudai' (Deputy of God) to emphasize that the Sultan's heart was a mirror of divine light.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Balban used the title Zil-e-Ilahi to discourage the 'Chahalgani' (The Forty) from challenging his absolute authority.
Logic 2: Other titles like Tuti-e-Hind (Amir Khusrau) or Din-e-Ilahi (Akbar's religion) are associated with different historical figures and eras.

Active Recall

Question

What were Sijda and Paibos?

Answer

Prostration (Sijda) and kissing the feet of the Sultan (Paibos) were Persian court etiquettes introduced by Balban to enforce subservience.

Core Insight

Balban's focus on Persian etiquette was a strategic move to distance himself from his former status as a slave and establish a royal aura.

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