[Solved] Bahlul Lodi Map and Jaunpur Conquest | UPSC | Concept & Explanation

To which Lodi Sultan does the given map relate and what town lies the side marked A on the map represent?

[UPSC CSE Prelims 1999]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Bahlul Lodi, the founder of the Lodi dynasty, sought to reclaim the lost prestige of the Sultanate by subjugating rebellious regional kingdoms like the Sharqi Sultanate of Jaunpur.

Authentic Source Evidence

Historical records show that in 1479, Bahlul Lodi decisively defeated Hussain Shah Sharqi and annexed Jaunpur, which had been independent for nearly 80 years.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The map represents the early Lodi expansion toward the East. Jaunpur was the most significant rival to Delhi in that region.

Logic 2: Bahlul Lodi’s greatest military achievement was the destruction of the Sharqi power, making Jaunpur a key administrative center under his son, Barbak Shah.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why was Jaunpur called the 'Shiraz of the East'?"

Under the Sharqi rulers, it became a major center for Islamic art, architecture, and learning, rivaling the cultural glory of Shiraz in Persia.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The annexation of Jaunpur by Bahlul Lodi marked the end of the most powerful regional challenger to Delhi's authority in Northern India."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

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