Nasiruddin Mahmud was the sixth ruler of the Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1246 CE to 1266 CE and is known for being a pious, peace-loving, and religious ruler. However, the real power during his reign was exercised by his Prime Minister and military commander, Ghiyasuddin Balban, who later became the Sultan.
Basic Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nasiruddin Mahmud |
| Dynasty | Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty |
| Ruled From | 1246 CE – 1266 CE |
| Predecessor | Alauddin Masud Shah |
| Successor | Ghiyasuddin Balban |
| Father | Iltutmish |
| Prime Minister | Ghiyasuddin Balban |
| Death | 1266 CE (Natural causes) |
Rise to Power
- Nasiruddin Mahmud was the son of Iltutmish and was made Sultan in 1246 CE by the Turkish nobles (Chihalgani).
- He was chosen because he was seen as a weak ruler who would not challenge the power of the nobles.
- Unlike his predecessors, he was not indulgent in luxuries but was deeply religious and preferred a simple life.
Rule Under Balban’s Influence
- Nasiruddin Mahmud focused on religious and cultural matters rather than administration.
- His Prime Minister, Ghiyasuddin Balban, handled all political and military affairs.
- Balban strengthened the army, suppressed revolts, and controlled the Turkish nobles.
- Mongol invasions were effectively repelled under Balban’s leadership.
Major Events During His Rule
1. Administrative Stability
- Under Balban’s guidance, the administration became more efficient and stable.
- The power of the Chihalgani (Group of Forty) was reduced.
2. Suppression of Internal Revolts
- Many provincial governors and nobles tried to rebel, but Balban crushed them.
3. Mongol Threats
- Mongols frequently attacked India during his reign.
- Balban successfully defended the Sultanate and prevented Mongol expansion.
4. Patronage of Art & Religion
- Nasiruddin Mahmud was a religious scholar who spent time copying the Quran by hand.
- He lived a simple life and followed Islamic traditions strictly.
Death & Succession
- Died in 1266 CE (natural causes).
- Since he had no sons, his Prime Minister, Balban, became the next Sultan.
Significance of Nasiruddin Mahmud’s Rule
- His rule was a period of peace and stability, largely due to Balban’s governance.
- His piety and simplicity made him different from other Delhi Sultans.
- His reign marked the decline of the Chihalgani (Turkish Nobles) and the rise of Balban.
Key Facts for Quick Revision
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dynasty | Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty |
| Ruled From | 1246 CE – 1266 CE |
| Predecessor | Alauddin Masud Shah |
| Successor | Ghiyasuddin Balban |
| Real Power Held By | Ghiyasuddin Balban |
| Major Threat | Mongol Invasions |
| Death | 1266 CE (Natural causes) |
MCQs on Nasiruddin Mahmud
1. Who was the real power behind Nasiruddin Mahmud’s rule?
A) Qutb-ud-din Aibak
B) Razia Sultana
C) Balban
D) Jalaluddin Khalji
Answer: C) Balban
2. What was Nasiruddin Mahmud’s main interest?
A) Military Expansion
B) Religious & Cultural Activities
C) Trade & Commerce
D) Art & Architecture
Answer: B) Religious & Cultural Activities
3. Who succeeded Nasiruddin Mahmud as the Sultan of Delhi?
A) Razia Sultana
B) Alauddin Masud Shah
C) Ghiyasuddin Balban
D) Jalaluddin Khalji
Answer: C) Ghiyasuddin Balban
4. How did Nasiruddin Mahmud die?
A) Assassination
B) Killed in battle
C) Natural causes
D) Overthrown
Answer: C) Natural causes
5. Which major external threat did the Delhi Sultanate face during Nasiruddin Mahmud’s reign?
A) Rajput Rebellions
B) Mongol Invasions
C) European Traders
D) Bahmani Sultanate
Answer: B) Mongol Invasions
These notes are essential for UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, NDA, CDS, and other competitive exams covering Medieval Indian History.