Introduction: The Dawn of Deccani Power
The Bahmani Sultanate, established in 1347 CE in the Deccan, marked a significant phase of Islamic rule in South India, independent of the Delhi Sultanate. Founded by Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah amidst the declining authority of Muhammad bin Tughlaq, it emerged as a major power, frequently clashing with the Vijayanagara Empire to its south.
The Sultanate was characterized by a complex interplay of indigenous and foreign nobility, notable administrative experiments (especially under Mahmud Gawan), and a rich cultural synthesis manifesting in distinct Deccani art and architecture. Internal factionalism, particularly between the Deccanis and Afaqis, eventually led to its disintegration in the early 16th century, giving rise to five successor states: Ahmednagar, Bijapur, Golconda, Berar, and Bidar. These Deccan Sultanates continued the Bahmani legacy of art and culture and played a crucial role in the region's politics until their absorption into the Mughal Empire.
Source: Satish Chandra, "History of Medieval India"; NCERT Class VII "Our Pasts-II".
Core Content: Unveiling the Kingdoms
4.2.1: Bahmani Sultanate – Origins and Political History
4.2.1.1: Establishment
- Founded in 1347 CE by Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah (original name Zafar Khan/Hasan Gangu).
- He was a Turkish officer (or of Afghan/Persian descent, origins debated) in the army of Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
- He led a successful rebellion of Deccani amirs (nobles) against Tughlaq rule in Daulatabad.
- Initial Capital: Gulbarga (officially Ahsanabad).
- Later Capital: Shifted to Bidar (officially Muhammadabad) by Ahmad Shah Wali in c. 1424-29 CE.
- Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah claimed descent from the mythical Persian hero Bahman, son of Isfandiyar, hence the name "Bahmani." (Source: Satish Chandra)
Early Consolidation & Vision
The Bahmani Sultanate emerged from the fertile political chaos of the Delhi Sultanate's weakening grip over its southern territories. Hasan Gangu, an ambitious general, seized this opportunity to establish an independent Muslim kingdom in the Deccan, setting the stage for a new regional power balance.
The strategic location of the Deccan, at the crossroads of North and South India, fueled its rise.
4.2.1.2: Key Rulers
A. Muhammad Shah I (1358-1375 CE)
- Son and successor of Bahman Shah.
- Considered the real consolidator of the Bahmani kingdom.
- Organized the administration on the lines of the Delhi Sultanate, creating key ministerial posts.
- Engaged in fierce wars with the Vijayanagara Empire (over Raichur Doab) and Warangal (Kakatiyas' successors).
- First to extensively use gunpowder and artillery in wars against Vijayanagara, supplied by Turks and Europeans. (Source: Satish Chandra)
B. Tajuddin Firuz Shah (1397-1422 CE)
- A cultured and learned ruler, known as a scholar, poet (pen name 'Uruji' or 'Firuza'), and skilled calligrapher.
- Well-versed in religious sciences, botany, geometry, and logic.
- Known for his liberal outlook; inducted a large number of Hindus into the administration, particularly revenue officials.
- Fought three major wars with Deva Raya I of Vijayanagara. In one, he defeated Deva Raya I and compelled him to marry his daughter to him. Later, he was defeated.
- Built an observatory near Daulatabad (Firozabad on the Bhima).
- Patronized port of Chaul for trade.
C. Ahmad Shah Wali (1422-1436 CE)
- Brother and successor of Firuz Shah.
- Known for his piety and association with Sufi saint Gesudaraz of Gulbarga, hence often called a "Wali" (saint). (Though Gesudaraz died in 1422, Ahmad Shah had close ties).
- Shifted the capital from Gulbarga to Bidar around 1424-29 CE, a more centrally located and strategically defensible city with a better climate.
- Conducted brutal wars against Vijayanagara, leading to extensive destruction.
- Also fought against Malwa and Gujarat to assert Bahmani dominance in the Deccan.
D. Muhammad Shah III (1463-1482 CE)
- Became Sultan at a young age (9 years old).
- His reign was largely dominated by his capable Prime Minister (Peshwa/Vakil-us-Sultanat), Mahmud Gawan.
- The execution of Mahmud Gawan in 1481 on flimsy charges of treason, instigated by Deccani nobles, was a monumental blunder that precipitated the kingdom's decline.
4.2.1.3: Role of Mahmud Gawan (Prime Minister, c. 1463-1481)
A. Background:
- A Persian merchant-noble (Afaqi) by origin, named Khwaja Mahmud Gilani.
- Arrived in Deccan as a trader and rose through ranks due to his ability and integrity.
- Served as Peshwa or Vakil-us-Sultanat under Humayun Shah Zalim, Nizam Shah, and Muhammad Shah III.
- Known as a great statesman, administrator, military general, scholar, and patron of learning.
B. Administrative Reforms:
- Aimed to strengthen central authority and curb the power of provincial governors (Tarafdars).
- Divided the kingdom into eight Tarafs (provinces) of moderate size for better administrative control (earlier there were four large Tarafs).
- Reduced the powers of Tarafdars: controlled forts, fixed jagirs, introduced inspection.
- Improved land revenue system: Land surveyed, revenue fixed on fertility/measurement.
- Created a royal bodyguard (Khas-i-Khel) directly loyal to the Sultan.
C. Military Campaigns:
- Led successful campaigns that expanded the Bahmani territory.
- Conquered the Konkan coast up to Goa (a major port of Vijayanagara), improving trade with Iran and Iraq.
- Campaigned successfully against Orissa (Gajapatis).
- Defeated the rulers of Khandesh and kept Malwa in check.
D. Patronage of Learning:
- A renowned scholar himself, he wrote Riyaz-ul-Insha and Manazir-ul-Insha (collections of letters).
- Established a magnificent Madrasa (college) at Bidar in 1472 CE.
- It was a three-storeyed building with a large library (said to have 3,000 manuscripts), mosque, lecture halls, and residential quarters for students and teachers, attracting scholars from Persia and Iraq. (Source: ASI, Satish Chandra)
- Known for its exquisite glazed tilework (blue, green, yellow).
E. Execution (1481 CE):
- Became a victim of the Deccani-Afaqi rivalry.
- Deccani nobles, jealous of his power and influence as an Afaqi, forged a treasonous letter and convinced the young Sultan Muhammad Shah III of his guilt.
- He was executed in 1481 CE at the age of 78.
- His death was a severe blow to the Bahmani Sultanate, removing a stabilizing force and leading to increased factionalism and anarchy. Muhammad Shah III himself repented later but the damage was done.
4.2.1.4: Factionalism in Bahmani Court
A dominant feature of Bahmani politics was the intense rivalry between two groups of nobles:
Deccanis (Dakhnis)
- Nobles of local origin.
- Included Indian Muslim converts and descendants of early Muslim settlers.
- Habshis (Abyssinians) were part of this group.
- Felt they were the original inhabitants and rightful stakeholders.
Conflict & Instability
Afaqis (Gharibs/Pardesis)
- Foreign nobles recently arrived.
- From Persia, Turkey, Arabia, and Central Asia.
- Often more educated and skilled, gaining high positions.
- Their rise was resented by the Deccanis.
Mahmud Gawan was an Afaqi, and his rise and reforms were seen as a threat by the Deccani faction. This factionalism led to constant court intrigues, conspiracies, and political instability, significantly weakening the Sultanate from within. It was a primary cause of its eventual decline and disintegration. (Source: Satish Chandra)
4.2.1.5: Decline and Disintegration
The Bahmani Sultanate's downfall was a protracted process, accelerated by key internal factors:
1481 CE: Execution of Mahmud Gawan
This event is considered the turning point, removing the most capable and stabilizing force in the Sultanate's administration.
Post-Gawan: Weak Successors
Weak Sultans followed Muhammad Shah III, unable to control the ambitious nobles and the escalating factional strife.
Intensified Deccani-Afaqi Strife
The rivalry spiraled out of control, leading to widespread disorder, assassinations, and civil unrest.
Provincial Governors Assert Independence
As central authority weakened, Tarafdars began carving out independent kingdoms, exploiting the internal chaos.
Early 16th Century: Fragmentation
The Sultanate fractured into five independent Deccan Sultanates, with the last nominal Bahmani ruler (Kalimullah Shah) losing all effective power by c. 1527-1538.
4.2.2: Bahmani Administration, Economy, and Culture
4.2.2.1: Administration
-
Central Administration:
- Largely followed the model of the Delhi Sultanate.
- Sultan: Supreme head, executive, military commander, judicial authority.
- Key Ministers: Vakil-us-Sultanat (PM/Regent, later Peshwa), Amir-i-Jumla (Finance), Wazir-i-Ashraf (Foreign Affairs), Sadr-i-Jahan (Religious Affairs/Judiciary).
-
Provincial Administration:
- Kingdom divided into Tarafs (provinces), headed by Tarafdars (governors/Subedars).
- Mahmud Gawan reformed this, creating eight Tarafs and curtailing Tarafdars' powers.
-
Military:
- Strong army: cavalry, infantry, elephants.
- Known for early and effective use of firearms and artillery, often manned by Turkish and European mercenaries. (Source: Satish Chandra)
4.2.2.2: Economy
-
Primarily Agrarian:
- Agriculture was the mainstay; land revenue was the principal source.
- Mahmud Gawan's reforms aimed at systematic assessment and collection.
-
Trade and Commerce:
- Internal trade flourished.
- Foreign trade through Konkan ports (Dabhol, Chaul).
- Imports: Horses (crucial for cavalry), luxury goods.
- Exports: Textiles, spices, foodgrains.
-
Currency:
- Issued gold, silver, and copper coins.
4.2.2.3: Culture and Society
-
Social Structure:
- Predominantly Muslim ruling class over largely Hindu population.
- Nobility divided (Deccanis vs. Afaqis).
- Significant urban population in cities like Gulbarga, Bidar, Daulatabad.
-
Religious Influence:
- Islam as state religion. Sufis (e.g., Shaikh Muhammad Gesudaraz Bande Nawaz in Gulbarga) played important role.
- Generally, policy of tolerance towards Hindu population, who were involved in administration and trade.
-
Language:
- Persian was court language. Dakhni Urdu also began to develop.
4.2.2.4: Art and Architecture (Deccani Style)
Characterized by a blend of Persian, Turkish, and indigenous Indian architectural styles across two main phases:
A. Influence:
Strong Persian influence due to Afaqi nobles and direct contact with Persia. Also incorporated elements from Tughlaq architecture and local Deccani traditions.
B. Gulbarga Phase (c. 1347-1425 CE):
- Jama Masjid in Gulbarga Fort (c. 1367): Unique design – entirely covered with domes and vaulted roofs, with no open courtyard. Inspired by Great Mosque of Cordoba. (Source: Percy Brown)
- Haft Gumbaz (Seven Domes): Group of tombs of early Bahmani Sultans. Massive structures with Pathan-style sloping walls.
- Shah Bazar Mosque, Gulbarga.
C. Bidar Phase (c. 1425 CE onwards):
- Architecture became more ornate, with greater use of colored tiles and calligraphic decorations (Persian influence).
- Bidar Fort: Rebuilt and expanded by Ahmad Shah Wali. Features Rangin Mahal, Gagan Mahal.
- Solah Khamba Mosque (Sixteen-Pillared Mosque) in Bidar Fort (c. 1423).
- Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan (1472 CE): Prime example of Persian architectural style. Three-storeyed building with library, mosque, lecture halls, and exquisite glazed tilework. (Source: ASI)
- Tombs of later Bahmani Sultans at Ashtur, Bidar: E.g., Tomb of Ahmad Shah Wali, notable for lofty dome and interior paintings/calligraphy.
D. Current Affairs Linkage:
Monuments like the Jama Masjid (Gulbarga), Haft Gumbaz, Bidar Fort, and Mahmud Gawan's Madrasa are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Ongoing conservation and restoration work is periodically undertaken at these sites. Efforts to promote tourism to these historical sites in the Kalyana Karnataka (formerly Hyderabad-Karnataka) region are ongoing. (Source: ASI website, The Hindu)
4.2.3: The Five Deccan Sultanates
Born from the ashes of the Bahmani Sultanate, these five powerful kingdoms continued the legacy of art, culture, and conflict in the Deccan:
4.2.3.1: Nizam Shahis of Ahmednagar (c. 1490-1636 CE)
- Founder: Malik Ahmad Nizam-ul-Mulk Bahri. Founded Ahmednagar city in 1494.
- Key Rulers: Burhan Nizam Shah I (embraced Shia Islam), Hussain Nizam Shah I (fought in Battle of Talikota).
- Chand Bibi: Heroically defended Ahmednagar against Mughals (1595-96).
- Malik Ambar: Abyssinian minister, introduced land revenue reforms (Todar Mal's system) and used guerilla warfare against Mughals.
- Architecture: Ahmednagar fort, tombs of Nizam Shahi rulers, Farah Bagh palace complex. Ahmednagar school of painting emerged.
- Annexation: Berar by Akbar (1600); remaining by Shah Jahan (1636).
4.2.3.2: Adil Shahis of Bijapur (c. 1490-1686 CE)
- Founder: Yusuf Adil Shah. Claimed Ottoman descent (Afaqi).
- Key Rulers: Ibrahim Adil Shah I (reverted to Sunni, patronized Deccanis, Hindavi as court language). Ali Adil Shah I (Battle of Talikota, Jama Masjid).
- Ibrahim Adil Shah II (1580-1627): "Abla Baba" & "Jagadguru Badshah." Great patron of arts, music, literature. Authored "Kitab-i-Nauras" (songs praising Hindu deities).
- Muhammad Adil Shah (1627-1656): Builder of the Gol Gumbaz.
- Architecture: Gol Gumbaz (massive dome, whispering gallery), Ibrahim Rauza (mausoleum complex, inspiration for Taj Mahal), Jama Masjid, Asar Mahal. Bijapur school of painting flourished.
- Annexation: By Aurangzeb (1686).
4.2.3.3: Qutb Shahis of Golconda (c. 1512/18-1687 CE)
- Founder: Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk. Turkoman officer (Afaqi).
- Key Rulers: Ibrahim Qutb Shah (Battle of Talikota, patronized Telugu).
- Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah (1580-1612): Greatest ruler. Founder of Hyderabad city (1591, originally Bhagyanagar). Built Charminar (1591-92). Poet in Dakhni Urdu and Telugu.
- Abul Hasan Tana Shah (1672-1687): Last ruler, ministers Madanna and Akkanna.
- Economy: Very prosperous due to diamond mines (e.g., Kollur, source of Koh-i-Noor). Flourishing textile production (Masulipatnam).
- Architecture: Golconda Fort (acoustics, water system), Charminar, Qutb Shahi Tombs (blend of styles). Patronized Golconda painting.
- Annexation: By Aurangzeb (1687) after 8-month siege.
4.2.3.4: Imad Shahis of Berar (c. 1490-1574 CE)
- Founder: Fathullah Imad-ul-Mulk (Deccani noble).
- Capital: Ellichpur (Achalpur) and Gawilgarh.
- Short-lived kingdom, often acted as a buffer state. Did not participate in Battle of Talikota.
- Annexation: By Ahmednagar (1574).
4.2.3.5: Barid Shahis of Bidar (c. 1528-1619 CE)
- Founder: Amir Ali Barid (Qasim Barid I's son, who controlled later Bahmanis).
- Ruled over the remnants of the Bahmani kingdom around Bidar. The last Bahmani Sultans were their puppets.
- Architecture: Barid Shahi tombs in Bidar (bulbous domes, elaborate tile work). Rangin Mahal in Bidar fort embellished by them.
- Annexation: By Bijapur (1619).
4.2.3.6: Cultural Contributions of Deccan Sultanates
Dakhni Urdu
Flourished as a literary language, blending Persian, Arabic, Turkish with local languages (Marathi, Kannada, Telugu). Rulers like Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and Ibrahim Adil Shah II were poets in Dakhni.
Deccani Painting
Distinct schools emerged (Ahmednagar, Bijapur, Golconda). Characterized by rich colors, sensuousness, and a blend of Persian, Turkish, European, and indigenous Indian traditions. (Source: Mark Zebrowski)
Architecture
Each Sultanate developed unique styles, continuing Bahmani legacy with more local elements. Examples: Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, Charminar, Qutb Shahi Tombs.
Music and Literature
Patronage of music, dance, and literature in Persian, Dakhni Urdu, and local languages (e.g., Ibrahim Adil Shah II's Kitab-i-Nauras).
Syncretic Culture
Fostered interaction and influence between Hindu and Muslim traditions, creating a unique cultural identity.
4.2.3.7: Current Affairs Linkage
- UNESCO Nomination: "Monuments and Forts of the Deccan Sultanate" are on India's Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage status (since 2014), including sites from Bijapur, Bidar, Gulbarga, Golconda. (Source: UNESCO, ASI)
- Conservation Efforts: ASI and state archaeological departments undertake regular conservation work at major sites (Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, Charminar, Qutb Shahi Tombs, Mahmud Gawan's Madrasa, Barid Shahi tombs).
- Studies and Exhibitions: Academic research, publications, and museum exhibitions continue to bring Deccani art, architecture, and history into focus. E.g., Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) is involved in Qutb Shahi era stepwell restoration. (Source: News reports)
Quick Overview: Summary Tables
Summary Table: Bahmani Sultanate
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Period | 1347 – c. 1527 CE |
| Founder | Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah (Hasan Gangu) |
| Capitals | Gulbarga (Ahsanabad), later Bidar (Muhammadabad) |
| Key Rulers | Muhammad Shah I, Tajuddin Firuz Shah, Ahmad Shah Wali, Muhammad Shah III. |
| Mahmud Gawan | Persian noble, PM. Administrative reforms, military success, Madrasa at Bidar. Executed 1481. |
| Factionalism | Deccanis vs. Afaqis – major cause of instability. |
| Admin | Based on Delhi Sultanate model. Tarafs (provinces). Use of firearms. |
| Economy | Agrarian, trade via ports (Dabhol, Chaul). |
| Culture | Sufi influence (Gesudaraz). Architecture: Gulbarga (Jama Masjid, Haft Gumbaz), Bidar (Fort, Madrasa, Tombs). |
| Decline | Execution of Gawan, weak rulers, factionalism, rise of provincial governors. |
Summary Table: The Five Deccan Sultanates
| Sultanate | Founder | Capital(s) | Key Features/Rulers | Annexation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ahmednagar (Nizam Shahi) | Malik Ahmad Nizam-ul-Mulk | Ahmednagar | Chand Bibi's defense, Malik Ambar. Participated in Talikota. | Mughals (Shah Jahan, 1636) |
| Bijapur (Adil Shahi) | Yusuf Adil Shah | Bijapur | Ibrahim Adil Shah II (Kitab-i-Nauras), Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza. Participated in Talikota. | Mughals (Aurangzeb, 1686) |
| Golconda (Qutb Shahi) | Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk | Golconda, Hyderabad | Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah (Hyderabad, Charminar), diamond mines. Participated in Talikota. | Mughals (Aurangzeb, 1687) |
| Berar (Imad Shahi) | Fathullah Imad-ul-Mulk | Ellichpur, Gawilgarh | Short-lived, buffer state. | Ahmednagar (1574) |
| Bidar (Barid Shahi) | Amir Ali Barid | Bidar | Ruled remnants of Bahmani, Barid Shahi tombs. | Bijapur (1619) |
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The Bahmani Sultanate and its successor Deccan Sultanates represent a crucial chapter in the history of medieval Deccan. They established a strong Muslim political presence that co-existed and often conflicted with the Hindu Vijayanagara Empire, profoundly shaping the region's political landscape for over three centuries. Beyond warfare, these Sultanates fostered a unique and vibrant Deccani culture, marked by significant achievements in art, architecture (Gol Gumbaz, Charminar, Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan), and literature (especially the development of Dakhni Urdu).
Mahmud Gawan's administrative acumen and tragic end, along with the persistent Deccani-Afaqi factionalism, highlight the internal dynamics that characterized Bahmani rule. The successor states, while often mutually antagonistic, continued this cultural efflorescence until their eventual absorption by the expanding Mughal Empire. Their legacy endures in the magnificent monuments and rich cultural traditions of the Deccan.
Significance:
- Established a powerful counterpoise to Vijayanagara in the Deccan.
- Fostered a unique Indo-Islamic Deccani culture, distinct from North India.
- Pioneered administrative and military innovations (e.g., Mahmud Gawan's reforms, use of artillery).
- Their architectural and artistic achievements are a lasting testament to their rule.
- The political vacuum created by their decline was ultimately filled by the Mughals and later, the Marathas.
UPSC Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Prelims MCQs:
1. Who among the following Bahmani Sultans shifted the capital from Gulbarga to Bidar?
Options: (a) Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah (b) Muhammad Shah I (c) Tajuddin Firuz Shah (d) Ahmad Shah Wali
Answer: (d) Ahmad Shah Wali
Hint/Explanation: Ahmad Shah Wali shifted the capital to Bidar around 1424-1429 CE due to its strategic advantages and better climate.
2. Mahmud Gawan was the famous minister of which kingdom?
Options: (a) Kakatiya (b) Bahmani (c) Vijayanagara (d) Yadava
Answer: (b) Bahmani
Hint/Explanation: Mahmud Gawan served as Prime Minister (Vakil-us-Sultanat/Peshwa) under Bahmani Sultans, notably Muhammad Shah III.
3. Consider the following statements: 1. The Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur is the mausoleum of Muhammad Adil Shah. 2. The Charminar at Hyderabad was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. Which of these statements is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Hint/Explanation: Gol Gumbaz is indeed Muhammad Adil Shah's tomb. Charminar was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, founder of Hyderabad.
Mains Questions:
1. "Mahmud Gawan was the most distinguished personality in the Bahmani kingdom." Discuss his contributions and the reasons for his tragic end.
Direction/Value Points:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce Mahmud Gawan and his context in Bahmani politics.
- Contributions: Administrative Reforms (8 Tarafs, curbing governors' powers, land revenue survey, strengthening central control); Military Achievements (Conquests like Konkan, Goa, Orissa); Patronage of Learning (Madrasa at Bidar, his scholarship); Statesmanship (Efforts to maintain stability).
- Reasons for Tragic End: Afaqi-Deccani Rivalry (Gawan was an Afaqi, resented by Deccanis); Jealousy and Conspiracy (His success bred jealousy, forged treasonous letter); Weakness of the Sultan (Muhammad Shah III easily swayed).
- Impact of his Execution: Weakened the Sultanate, accelerated its decline, intensified factionalism.
- Conclusion: Reiterate his pivotal role and how his death was a turning point.
2. Analyze the development of art and architecture under the Bahmani Sultanate and its successor Deccan Sultanates. Highlight the distinctive features of Deccani style.
Direction/Value Points:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce the period and scope – Bahmani and Deccan Sultanates.
- Bahmani Architecture: Gulbarga Phase (Jama Masjid, Haft Gumbaz); Bidar Phase (Bidar Fort, Solah Khamba Mosque, Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, Tombs like Ahmad Shah Wali's).
- Deccan Sultanate Architecture: Bijapur (Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, Jama Masjid); Golconda (Golconda Fort, Charminar, Qutb Shahi Tombs); Ahmednagar/Bidar (briefly mention key structures).
- Distinctive Features of Deccani Style: Synthesis of Persian, Turkish, Tughlaq, and indigenous elements; Use of domes, arches, minarets; Elaborate tilework and stucco decoration; Local materials/craftsmanship; Grandeur/scale; Regional variations.
- Deccani Painting: Briefly mention characteristics (rich colors, Persian-indigenous blend).
- Conclusion: Summarize the rich, syncretic, and regionally distinct nature of Deccani art and architecture.
3. What were the causes for the rise and subsequent disintegration of the Bahmani Kingdom?
Direction/Value Points:
- Introduction: State the period of the Bahmani kingdom.
- Causes for Rise: Decline of Delhi Sultanate under Muhammad bin Tughlaq; Rebellion of disgruntled nobles (Amiran-i-Sadah); Leadership of Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah; Desire for regional autonomy; Strategic location.
- Causes for Disintegration: Factionalism (Afaqi-Deccani strife - most critical); Execution of Mahmud Gawan (removed key unifying force); Weak and Incompetent Successors; Over-ambitious Provincial Governors (asserted independence); Vastness of the Empire; Constant Warfare (drained resources).
- Conclusion: Emphasize that internal decay, particularly factionalism, was the primary cause.
Trend Analysis: UPSC Questioning Style
Prelims:
- Focus on key personalities (Founders, influential ministers, notable rulers).
- Architectural landmarks: Builders, locations, unique features.
- Cultural aspects: Literary works, Dakhni Urdu, Sufi saints.
- Key events/chronology: Shifting of capital, Battle of Talikota, establishment dates.
- Questions are often direct and factual, sometimes matching.
- Less emphasis on intricate political history, more on enduring contributions.
Mains:
- Cultural contributions: Art, architecture, literature (Dakhni) – very common.
- Role of key individuals: Mahmud Gawan is a perennial favorite.
- Administrative system: Features, comparison, reforms.
- Causes for decline/disintegration: Factionalism is a key analytical point.
- Regional polity: Nature of Bahmani state, relation with Vijayanagara, successor states.
- Questions are generally analytical ("discuss," "analyze," "evaluate").
- The distinct identity of Deccani culture is an underlying theme.
Overall Trend: UPSC focuses on lasting aspects – cultural achievements, key figures, and fundamental reasons for political change. For Mains, synthesizing information on culture, administration, and political dynamics is crucial.
Original MCQs for Prelims
1. Consider the following pairs regarding Bahmani/Deccan Sultanate administration: 1. Amir-i-Jumla : Head of Finance 2. Tarafdar : Provincial Governor 3. Sadr-i-Jahan : Head of Military Intelligence. Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
Explanation: Amir-i-Jumla was indeed the head of the finance department. Tarafdar was the designation for a provincial governor. Sadr-i-Jahan was the head of religious affairs and judiciary, not military intelligence.
2. The famous Bahmani minister Mahmud Gawan established a renowned Madrasa (college) known for its Persian architectural style and extensive library. This Madrasa is located in:
Options: (a) Gulbarga (b) Daulatabad (c) Bidar (d) Ahmednagar
Answer: (c) Bidar
Explanation: Mahmud Gawan's Madrasa, a significant center of learning and an architectural marvel with distinct Persian influences (like tilework), was established in Bidar, the later capital of the Bahmani Sultanate.
3. Which ruler of the Deccan Sultanates was known by the titles "Abla Baba" (friend of the poor) and "Jagadguru Badshah," and authored the "Kitab-i-Nauras"?
Options: (a) Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of Golconda (b) Ibrahim Adil Shah II of Bijapur (c) Malik Ambar of Ahmednagar (d) Ali Barid Shah of Bidar
Answer: (b) Ibrahim Adil Shah II of Bijapur
Explanation: Ibrahim Adil Shah II of Bijapur was known for his benevolence, religious tolerance, and patronage of arts and music. He authored "Kitab-i-Nauras," a work on music and aesthetics in Dakhni Urdu.
Original Descriptive Questions for Mains
1. "The Bahmani Sultanate, despite its internal schisms, laid the foundation for a distinct Deccani cultural identity that blossomed further under its successor states." Elaborate.
Key Points/Structure for Answering:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce the Bahmani Sultanate and its successor states in the Deccan context.
- Bahmani Foundations for Deccani Identity: Political Independence; Administrative Amalgamation; Patronage of Sufis; Architectural Beginnings; Early Dakhni Language.
- Blossoming under Successor States: Architecture (unique styles like Gol Gumbaz, Charminar); Painting (distinct schools); Literature (Dakhni Urdu maturing, patronage of local languages); Music and Dance; Syncretism.
- Internal Schisms (as a backdrop): Mention how Afaqi-Deccani conflict still influenced culture.
- Conclusion: Reiterate how the Bahmani period initiated a cultural synthesis that matured and diversified under the Deccan Sultanates.
2. Critically evaluate the role of factionalism between the Deccanis and Afaqis in the political trajectory and eventual decline of the Bahmani Sultanate.
Key Points/Structure for Answering:
- Introduction: Define Deccanis and Afaqis and state the context of their rivalry.
- Origins and Nature of Factionalism: Who were they, struggle for power, resources, and influence.
- Impact on Political Trajectory: Instability, administrative inefficiency, weakening of Sultan's authority, military impact, Mahmud Gawan's case.
- Role in Eventual Decline: Execution of Mahmud Gawan (key factor), breakdown of central authority, assertion of independence by Tarafdars, inability to present united front.
- Critical Evaluation: Was it the sole cause? Acknowledge other factors, but emphasize factionalism as the primary internal factor.
- Conclusion: Factionalism corroded the Bahmani state from within, leading to fragmentation.