Religious Syncretism in the Sultanate

Sultan Who Celebrated Holi | Muhammad Bin Tughluq

Muhammad-Bin-Tughluq was the first Delhi Sultan to participate in the public celebration of Holi, demonstrating his unique and liberal religious outlook.

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Who was the first Sultan of Delhi to participate in the public celebration of Holi?

[U.P.P.C.S. Special Mains 2004]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Unlike many of his predecessors, MBT was a liberal intellectual who showed interest in the customs of his Hindu subjects, fostering a more inclusive court culture.

Authentic Source Evidence


Historical accounts note that MBT was the first Sultan to publicly participate in Holi celebrations and engage with Hindu yogis and scholars, reflecting his unorthodox religious views.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: MBT’s participation in Holi was part of his broader philosophy of social integration and personal curiosity about diverse traditions.

  • Logic 2: His successors, like Firuz Shah, were more conservative and often reversed these inclusive practices.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What other religious group did MBT engage with significantly?"

    He had frequent discussions with Jain scholars like Jinaprabha Suri and offered them state protection.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "MBT's openness to festivals like Holi shows that the Sultanate's social fabric was more complex and syncretic than often portrayed."

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