During the Sultanate era an exotic Indo-Muslim culture came into being which was the blend of Arabic, Turkish, Afghan, Persian, Central-Asian and Indian traditions. Initially, the conquests from Afghanistan culturally influenced the northern India as Lahore, which turned into a smaller Ghazni and later Delhi became the most significant cultural centre in the Muslim East. After the fall of Baghdad in 1258, Delhi became the most important cultural center of Muslim East. When the centers of learning in Central and Western Asia were devastated, Delhi turned out to be the bulwark of Muslim power. It generously afforded refuge to the talented Muslims who came in increasing numbers and added to the splendor of the court of Delhi. Balban had great regard for these distinguished refugees. The next reign was that of Ala-ud-din Khalji famous for patronage of men of letters. Muhammad Tughluq and Firuz Tughluq were also keen supporters of learning. The cultural life of the Sultanate received a fresh stimulus during the reign of Sikandar Lodhi. It was undoubtedly on the foundations laid by the sultans of Delhi that the great edifice of cultural development was erected by the Mughal rulers.
This article was last updated on Monday, Jan 03, 2005
