The Chahalgani (Group of Forty) nobles were formed during the reign of:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer: Iltutmish.
Explanation:
To consolidate his rule, Iltutmish, the Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate, formed a group of 40 loyal Turkic slaves known as the 'Turk-e-Chahalgani' or 'The Forty' (Chalisa). These nobles assisted the Sultan in administration and military campaigns. After Iltutmish, this group became so powerful that they began to interfere even in the selection of the Sultan. Later, Ghiyasuddin Balban (who himself had been a member of this group) completely dismantled it in order to restore the authority of the Sultan.
Additional Points:
Qutbuddin Aibak: He is considered the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, but he did not establish the Chahalgani.
Balban: He adopted the 'Policy of Blood and Iron' and suppressed the Chalisa.
Iltutmish: He is referred to as the 'Slave of Slaves' and is also considered the de facto founder of the Delhi Sultanate.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Who dismantled the Chahalgani (Chalisa)?
Answer: Balban.
Question: Who introduced the 'Iqta' system?
Answer: Iltutmish.