Medieval History : The Delhi Sultanate (1200-1400 CE)

Q 11 / 24

UPSC CSE Prelims 2003

How did Sultan Qutb-ud-din Aibak die?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option (D)

Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi and founder of the Mamluk dynasty, died in1210 CE. His death occurred in Lahore when he fell from his horse while playingChaugan, a traditional form of polo. Thisfatal injury during a sporting activityled to his demise.

Incorrect Options

Option 1: Qutb-ud-din Aibak was not assassinated or treacherously killed by his nobles. His death was accidental.

Option 2: Although Qutb-ud-din Aibak had territorial conflicts with Taj-ud-din Yildiz, particularly over control of Punjab, he did not die in a battle against him. Yildiz's significant military engagements were primarily with Iltutmish.

Option 3: The incident of sustaining injuries during the siege of Kalinjar in Bundelkhand is associated with Muhammad Ghori, not Qutb-ud-din Aibak. Muhammad Ghori was involved in various campaigns in the Bundelkhand region.

SOURCESatish Chandra, History of Medieval India, Chapter 5: The Delhi Sultanate