On the death of Qutb-ud-din Aibak his ..................., Iltutmish, was selected as Sultan.

The correct answer is - Son-in-law

Key Points

• Iltutmish was the son-in-law of Qutb-ud-din Aibak.
• Upon the death of Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1210 AD, the nobles of the court selected Iltutmish to succeed him as Sultan because of his administrative and military abilities.
• Iltutmish had earlier been purchased as a slave by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and rose through the ranks due to his competence and loyalty.
• His selection over Aibak’s own son demonstrates the importance of capability over heredity in the early Delhi Sultanate period.

Additional Information

• Qutb-ud-din Aibak
  • He was the founder of the Mamluk Dynasty, also known as the Slave Dynasty, in Delhi.
  • He was a former slave of Mohammad Ghori and became the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate after Ghori’s death in 1206 AD.
  • He is known for initiating the construction of the Qutub Minar, which was later completed by Iltutmish.
• Iltutmish’s Contributions
  • He consolidated the Delhi Sultanate and is credited with laying a solid administrative foundation for the empire.
  • Iltutmish introduced the Iqta system, a revenue-sharing arrangement with nobles and officers.
  • He completed the construction of the Qutub Minar and established Delhi as the permanent capital of the Sultanate.
• Mamluk Dynasty Overview
  • The Mamluk Dynasty was the first dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate and lasted from 1206 to 1290 AD.
  • It was established by slaves who rose to power, emphasizing meritocracy over heredity.
  • Other prominent rulers of the dynasty include Razia Sultana, the first female ruler of Delhi, and Balban.