Delhi Sultanate — Set 7
Indian History · दिल्ली सल्तनत · Questions 61–70 of 100
The 'Sayyid' dynasty claimed descent from:
Correct Answer: D. The Prophet Muhammad
The Sayyid dynasty rulers claimed to be descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. 'Sayyid' is an honorific title for such descendants. Khizr Khan, the founder, based his legitimacy on this claim.
Who was the longest-serving dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate?
Correct Answer: A. Tughlaq
The Tughlaq Dynasty ruled for the longest period among the Sultanate dynasties. They ruled from 1320 to 1414 AD (approx. 94 years). The Khilji dynasty had the shortest reign.
The official language of the Delhi Sultanate administration was:
Correct Answer: C. Persian
Persian was the official language of administration and court in the Delhi Sultanate. While the rulers were Turks or Afghans, they adopted Persian culture and language. This led to the development of Indo-Persian literature.
Who destroyed the Nalanda University?
Correct Answer: D. Bakhtiyar Khilji
Bakhtiyar Khilji, a general of Qutbuddin Aibak, destroyed Nalanda University around 1200 AD. He also destroyed Vikramshila University. This act dealt a severe blow to Buddhism in India.
Who was the Sufi saint who famously said 'Hanuz Dilli Dur Ast' (Delhi is still far away)?
Correct Answer: B. Nizamuddin Auliya
Nizamuddin Auliya said 'Hanuz Dilli Dur Ast' to Sultan Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. The Sultan had threatened the saint, but died in an accident before reaching Delhi. This phrase is now a common idiom.
The tomb of which Sultan is the first example of a 'True Arch' in India?
Correct Answer: D. Balban
The Tomb of Balban in Mehrauli is considered the first true arch built in India. Earlier structures used the corbelled technique. This marked a significant advancement in Indo-Islamic architecture.
Which Sultan called himself the 'Shadow of God'?
Correct Answer: A. Balban
Balban took the title 'Zill-i-Ilahi' which means Shadow of God. He used this to legitimize his absolute power and demand submission. He distanced himself from the common people to maintain this aura.
The term 'Chaugan' refers to which modern sport?
Correct Answer: C. Polo
Chaugan is the medieval precursor to modern Polo. It was played on horseback. Qutbuddin Aibak died after falling from his horse while playing this game.
Who was the first Afghan ruler of Delhi?
Correct Answer: B. Bahlul Lodi
Bahlul Lodi was the first Afghan ruler of Delhi. He founded the Lodi dynasty. Previous dynasties like the Slaves, Khiljis, and Tughlaqs were of Turkish origin.
The silver coin 'Tanka' weighed approximately:
Correct Answer: C. 175 grains
The silver Tanka introduced by Iltutmish weighed 175 grains. It became the standard currency for centuries. The British Rupee was later based on this weight standard.