Chapter 14 Delhi Sultanate, Vijayanagar and Bahamani Kingdom
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History of Bahamani Kingdom
The Bahmani Kingdom, also known as the Bahmani Sultanate,
was a significant medieval Muslim state in the Deccan Plateau of South India.
It emerged in the early 14th century, specifically in 1347, following the
disintegration of the Delhi Sultanate, which had previously ruled over much of
North India.
Here's a
breakdown of its history and key aspects:
1. Foundation: The Bahmani
Kingdom was founded by Ala-ud-Din Hasan Bahman Shah, who was formerly a
governor under the Delhi Sultanate. After the decline of the Delhi Sultanate,
he declared his independence and established his own sultanate with Gulbarga as
its capital.
2. Territory: At its peak, the Bahmani
Sultanate controlled large parts of the Deccan region, including present-day
states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. The kingdom's
territory fluctuated over time due to conflicts with neighboring states.
3. Administration: The Bahmani Sultanate had a
sophisticated administrative system. It was divided into provinces, each
governed by a noble known as a Wali. The Sultan was the supreme authority,
assisted by ministers and advisors. The sultanate was also known for its
tolerance towards different religious and cultural communities.
4. Culture and Architecture:
The Bahmani period witnessed significant cultural and architectural
developments. The sultans were patrons of Persian and Deccani art and
literature. They encouraged the construction of mosques, palaces, and forts,
which blended Persian, Turkish, and indigenous architectural styles. The Gol
Gumbaz in Bijapur is one of the most famous architectural landmarks from this
period.
5. Decline: Internal strife and external
invasions weakened the Bahmani Sultanate over time. The kingdom faced constant
threats from the Vijayanagara Empire in the south and various Hindu kingdoms in
the Deccan. Additionally, the rise of the Mughal Empire in North India posed a
significant challenge. In the 16th century, the Bahmani Sultanate disintegrated
into five smaller states known as the Deccan Sultanates: Bijapur, Golconda,
Ahmadnagar, Berar, and Bidar.
6. Legacy: Despite its eventual
dissolution, the Bahmani Sultanate left a lasting impact on the Deccan region.
It contributed to the development of a distinct Deccani culture, which blended
influences from Persia, Central Asia, and South India. The Deccan Sultanates
that emerged from its disintegration continued to play a crucial role in
shaping the history of the region.
Overall, the Bahmani Sultanate occupies a significant place in Indian history as one of the major medieval Muslim states in the Deccan, contributing to the rich tapestry of India's cultural and political landscape.