Iltutmish, also known as Altamash, was a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate in India during the early 13th century. He was a member of the Mamluk dynasty, which had originally come to India as slave-soldiers for previous rulers. However, Iltutmish was able to rise through the ranks and eventually become the sultan of Delhi, ruling from 1211 to 1236.
Iltutmish is known for his military campaigns, which helped to expand the territory of the Delhi Sultanate and strengthen its control over the region. He was able to defeat the Rajputs, a Hindu warrior caste, and also fought against the Mongols who were attempting to invade India.
In addition to his military achievements, Iltutmish is also remembered for his efforts to consolidate and reform the administration of the Delhi Sultanate. He implemented a system of land revenue collection and established a standing army, which helped to increase the efficiency and stability of the government.
Iltutmish was also a patron of the arts and is credited with fostering a culture of learning and scholarship in the Delhi Sultanate. He established a number of madrasas, or Islamic schools, and encouraged the translation of works from Arabic and Persian into Sanskrit and other Indian languages.
Despite these accomplishments, Iltutmish's rule was not without its challenges. He faced opposition from within his own court, and was eventually overthrown by his own son, Rukn ud din Firuz. However, his contributions to the Delhi Sultanate and the history of India have not been forgotten, and he is remembered as a strong and capable ruler who helped to shape the course of history in the region.
