Need to reinterpret history of Delhi Sultanate

Speakers at a seminar at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) called for a comprehensive review of the history of the Delhi Sultanate which ruled parts of India for 320 years.

The contribution of the five dynasties which formed the Delhi Sultanate from 1206 to 1526 was in no way less significant than that of the Mughals who followed them, the speakers said.

Organised by the Centre of Advanced Study in the university's history department, a large number of historians and scholars from Delhi, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan also participated in the seminar.

AMU's Pro-Vice Chancellor S. Ahmad Ali highlighted several achievements when the Sultanate reigned supreme

Professor Tariq Ahmad said the Delhi Sultanate period was "marvellous and full of achievements" -- a la the later Mughal Empire.

He praised Iltutmish's monetary system and the transformation of Delhi as a cultural centre.

Professor Ali Athar, convener of the seminar, said there was a need to re-interpret the history of the Delhi Sultanate.

The first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate was Qutb-ud-din, and the Afghan Lodis were the last.