About 

• First dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate, founded by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1206 AD. 
• The term "Mamluk" means "owned" and referred to Turkish slaves trained for military service. 

 Key Rulers and Contributions 

 Qutb-ud-din Aibak (1206-1210 AD) 

• Known as "Lakha Baksh Sultan" for his generosity. 
• Started construction of Qutub Minar and built Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque (Delhi) and Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra (Ajmer). 
• Died in 1210 AD from a polo accident. 

 Iltutmish (1211-1236 AD) 

• Most prominent ruler, recognized as Sultan by the Caliph of Baghdad. 
• Consolidated the empire and defeated rivals like Taj al-Din Yildiz and Nasir ad-Din Qabacha. 
• Introduced the Iqta system (land grants instead of salaries). 
• Reorganized the army, created Turkan-i-Chihalgani (Chalisa) – a group of 40 loyal Turkish nobles. 
• Completed Qutub Minar, introduced Silver Tanka and Jital coins. 

 Razia Sultan (1236-1240 AD) 

• First and only woman ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. 
• Faced opposition from Turkish nobles and was killed in 1240 AD after a rebellion. 

 Ghiyas-ud-din Balban (1266-1287 AD) 

• Strengthened the Sultan’s authority through the policy of Blood and Iron. 
• Crushed rebellions and improved law and order by eliminating bandits. 
• Introduced Sijadah (prostration) and Paibos (kissing the feet) to enforce royal dignity. 
• Defended India from Mongol invasions. 
• Introduced Persian festival Navroz and fortified Delhi Sultanate institutions. 

 End of Mamluk Dynasty (1290 AD) 

• After Balban’s death, his weak successors failed to maintain control. 
• Jalaluddin Khalji seized power in 1290 AD, marking the end of the Mamluk Dynasty and the beginning of the Khalji Dynasty.