Who Was the First Sultan of Delhi?

The Delhi Sultanate is important for understanding the development of Indian history during the medieval period. The Delhi Sultanate, which saw the start of several centuries of Muslim rule in the northern part of the subcontinent, developed many new forms of administration, cultural forms, architectural styles, and military systems that significantly altered the course of Indian history. 

For centuries, the Delhi Sultanate was one of the most powerful political centers in the subcontinent due to its influence on religion, trade, and governance.

Consequently, as historians study the rise of every dynasty to their peak of power and the expansion of their empires, the Delhi Sultanate provides important insights into this time in history and how all the parts of India fit together. 

In addition, as each of the Sultans left behind significant monuments and records for future generations, the contributions of all the Delhi Sultanate Sultans are frequently studied today. Of all of the Sultans of the Delhi Sultanate, the first Sultan is a particularly important figure in the historical development of India.

Check Out: Who Was the Last Ruler of Mauryan Empire?

Who was the First Sultan of Delhi?

Qutb ud-Din Aibak, an ex-slave of Muhammad Ghori and after evolving to general and ruler of Delhi, created the independent rule of northern India after marrying into the Mamluk dynasty or Slave dynasty. 

Aibak declared his own rule in northern India after Ghori's death in 1206 AD and his rule established the beginning of the Delhi Sultanate. He is also associated with the initiation of the construction of the Qutub Minar located in the capital city of Delhi and ruled from 1206-1210 AD. Aibak, who was regarded as very generous, is known by the name Lakh Baksh, or donor of 100s of thousands.

Interesting Facts About Delhi's First Sultan

1. Founder of the Slave Dynasty 

Aibak was the first ruler of the Slave Dynasty in India. This dynasty was known as the Slave Dynasty because many of its rulers including Aibak himself were previously enslaved individuals who had served as soldiers, and had shown great loyalty and had risen to power through their military service.

2. Builder of Qutub Minar 

As sultan of the Delhi Sultanate, Aibak began erecting Qutub Minar to honor the installation of Muslim hegemony across India. At the time Aibak died, only the first storey of the Qutub Minar was actually constructed, with subsequent rulers enlarging the monument until it reached its current size. The Qutub Minar is today one of India’s best-known heritage sites and is recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Known as “Lakh Baksh” 

Aibak is famous because of his vast and giving personality through contributions made towards the education of scholars, clerics, and the needy. Aibak’s kindness and generosity made him well known as Lakh Baksh (giver of hundred thousands).

4. From Slave to Sultan

 The remarkable journey of Aibak from slavery to being a ruler of an empire was one of the most amazing and unique things about Aibak. A slave from Central Asia who had purchased for a price and trained as a soldier and eventually earned the trust of Muhammad Ghori enough to be appointed governor and later to be the first Sultan of Delhi.

 5. Died While Playing Polo 

Polo was a very famous royal sport during Aibak's time, and it was while playing this sport in 1210 that he lost his life in an accident during a game in Lahore after falling off his horse and receiving fatal injuries causing his reign to end unexpectedly.