Jalaluddin Khalji was the founder and first ruler of the Khalji Dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1290 to 1296 CE and is known for his mild and forgiving nature, which ultimately led to his assassination by his own nephew, Alauddin Khalji.
Basic Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jalaluddin Firuz Khalji |
| Dynasty | Khalji Dynasty |
| Ruled From | 1290 CE – 1296 CE |
| Predecessor | Muizuddin Qaiqabad (Last ruler of Slave Dynasty) |
| Successor | Alauddin Khalji |
| Major Policy | Leniency towards nobles and Mongols |
| Death | 1296 CE (Assassinated by Alauddin Khalji) |
Rise to Power
- Jalaluddin Khalji was a Turkish-Afghan noble who served under the Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty.
- In 1290 CE, he overthrew the last ruler of the Slave Dynasty (Muizuddin Qaiqabad) and became Sultan of Delhi.
- His rule ended the Slave Dynasty and started the Khalji Dynasty.
Policies & Administration
1. Lenient Rule
- Unlike previous rulers, Jalaluddin Khalji followed a policy of mercy and kindness.
- He pardoned rebels and Mongol invaders, which made his rule weak and ineffective.
2. Treatment of Mongols
- Allowed Mongol invaders to settle in Delhi, forming a community known as the “New Muslims” (Nau Muslim).
- Many nobles criticized his soft approach, as Mongols were seen as a major threat.
3. Neglect of Military Strength
- Focused on peaceful governance instead of military expansion.
- Ignored internal threats, especially from his nephew, Alauddin Khalji.
Downfall & Assassination (1296 CE)
- Alauddin Khalji (his nephew and Governor of Kara) defeated the king of Devagiri (Yadavas) in 1296 CE and looted massive wealth.
- Jalaluddin went to Kara to meet Alauddin, thinking he was loyal.
- Alauddin Khalji assassinated Jalaluddin Khalji in 1296 CE and took over the throne of Delhi.
Significance of Jalaluddin Khalji’s Rule
- First ruler of the Khalji Dynasty but was too lenient and weak.
- His forgiveness policy led to his downfall.
- Alauddin Khalji’s rise marked a shift to a strong, centralized rule.
Key Facts for Quick Revision
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dynasty | Khalji Dynasty |
| Ruled From | 1290 CE – 1296 CE |
| Predecessor | Muizuddin Qaiqabad (Last ruler of Slave Dynasty) |
| Successor | Alauddin Khalji |
| Major Weakness | Leniency towards Mongols and nobles |
| Death | 1296 CE (Assassinated by Alauddin Khalji) |
MCQs on Jalaluddin Khalji
1. Who was the founder of the Khalji Dynasty?
A) Alauddin Khalji
B) Jalaluddin Khalji
C) Malik Kafur
D) Qutbuddin Mubarak Shah
Answer: B) Jalaluddin Khalji
2. Which ruler did Jalaluddin Khalji overthrow to establish the Khalji Dynasty?
A) Iltutmish
B) Balban
C) Muizuddin Qaiqabad
D) Razia Sultana
Answer: C) Muizuddin Qaiqabad
3. Who assassinated Jalaluddin Khalji?
A) Malik Kafur
B) Qutbuddin Mubarak Shah
C) Alauddin Khalji
D) Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Answer: C) Alauddin Khalji
4. How did Jalaluddin Khalji treat Mongol invaders?
A) He fought and expelled them
B) He allowed them to settle in Delhi
C) He made them his army generals
D) He signed a treaty with them
Answer: B) He allowed them to settle in Delhi
5. Where was Jalaluddin Khalji assassinated?
A) Delhi
B) Kara (UP)
C) Devagiri
D) Ranthambore
Answer: B) Kara (UP)
These notes are essential for UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, NDA, CDS, and other competitive exams covering Medieval Indian History.