The Delhi Sultanate

2026-01-10

The Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526 CE) refers to five dynasties that ruled over large parts of India from Delhi. It marked the integration of Islamic culture with existing Indian traditions, leading to the Indo-Islamic synthesis.

The Five Dynasties

  1. Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty (1206–1290)
  2. Khilji Dynasty (1290–1320)
  3. Tughlaq Dynasty (1320–1414)
  4. Sayyid Dynasty (1414–1451)
  5. Lodi Dynasty (1451–1526)

Key Developments

  • Introduction of dome and arch architecture.
  • Rise of the Urdu language.
  • Market reforms under Alauddin Khilji.

Timeline

  • 1206: Qutb-ud-din Aibak establishes the Mamluk Dynasty.
  • 1296-1316: Reign of Alauddin Khilji.
  • 1327: Muhammad bin Tughlaq moves capital to Daulatabad (failed experiment).
  • 1398: Timur's invasion sacks Delhi.
  • 1526: Battle of Panipat; Babur defeats Ibrahim Lodi.