Alauddin Khalji
- Born:
- Possibly 1266 or 1267, Either Bengal or Delhi, India (precise location debated)
- Died:
- January 1316, Delhi, India
- Nationality:
- Turkic-Indian
- Profession(s):
- Sultan of Delhi (r. 1296-1316), Military Commander
Early Life and Education
- Born as Ali Gurshasp, nephew and son-in-law of Sultan Jalaluddin Khalji, founder of the Khalji dynasty.
- Relatively little is known about his formal education or early upbringing.
- Gained military experience early in his life, participating in campaigns under Jalaluddin.
Career and Major Achievements
- Appointed Governor of Kara-Manikpur during Jalaluddin's reign.
- Led a successful raid on Devagiri in 1296, acquiring immense wealth.
- Assassinated Jalaluddin Khalji in 1296 and seized the throne of Delhi.
- Successfully defended the Delhi Sultanate against multiple Mongol invasions.
- Expanded the Sultanate's territory significantly through military campaigns in Gujarat, Ranthambore, Chittor, and the Deccan region.
- Implemented significant administrative and economic reforms, including price controls, land revenue reforms, and a standing army.
- Commissioned the construction of the Alai Darwaza and began the construction of the Alai Minar.
Legacy and Impact
Alauddin Khalji is remembered as one of the most powerful and ambitious rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. His military conquests significantly expanded the Sultanate's reach, and his administrative reforms left a lasting impact on its governance. Discussions about the Alauddin Khalji biography definition often highlight his ruthless methods and his contributions to strengthening and centralizing the Sultanate's power.
Notable Works
- Alai Darwaza: A grand gateway built at the Qutb complex in Delhi.
- Hazar Sutun Palace: A palace built in Siri, the second city of Delhi established by Alauddin.
- Began Construction of the uncompleted Alai Minar.