Origin of the Delhi Sultanate

Founder of the Slave Dynasty | Qutbuddin Aybak

Qutbuddin Aybak was the founder of the Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty in India, establishing his rule in 1206 CE.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VII - Our Pasts II

Archived:

Updated:

Who was the founder of Slave dynasty?

[U.P.P.C.S. Pre 1990]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Delhi Sultanate began with a series of rulers who were originally military slaves. This established a unique meritocratic military culture in early medieval India.

Authentic Source Evidence

Qutbuddin Aybak (r. 1206–1210), a slave of Muhammad Ghori, founded the Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty after Ghori's death. He was the first to assume the title of Sultan and rule from Lahore and Delhi.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Option D is correct. Aybak laid the foundation, though he died shortly after in 1210.

  • Logic 2: Iltutmish (A) is often called the 'real' consolidator, and Balban (C) was a later powerful ruler, but neither was the founder.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What does the term 'Lakh Baksh' signify for Aybak?"

    It means 'Giver of Lakhs', a title bestowed upon him due to his legendary generosity and charitable donations.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Aybak's rise from slavery to the Sultanate throne illustrates the mobility and military character of the early Turko-Afghan state in India."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Analysing authentic U.P.P.C.S. Preprevious year questions is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly decoding past exam trends related to Origin of the Delhi Sultanate helps you understand the examiner's mindset. Mastering specific entities like Qutbuddin Aybak and Slave Dynasty founder builds the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practice Previous Year Questions here →

    UPSC Question Bank | Verified
    Live Archive Status