Which ruler is associated with the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate?

Qutb ud din Aibak

Qutb ud din Aibak is commonly regarded as the founder of the Delhi Sultanate and the first ruler of the Mamluk, or Slave, Dynasty in India. After the death of Muhammad Ghori, Aibak established independent authority in the Indian territories that had been conquered by Ghori. His rule began the political tradition usually called the Delhi Sultanate, although later rulers, especially Iltutmish, consolidated and strengthened the administration and territory.

Option C is therefore the expected answer. Iltutmish was extremely important because he stabilised the early sultanate and is sometimes described as its real organiser, but he did not receive the usual textbook credit for its initial foundation. Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad bin Tughlaq ruled later dynasties and periods. The question asks for the ruler associated with establishment, so Qutb ud din Aibak is the best choice.

This is a Class 10 General Knowledge question. Chapter: Indian History. Topic: Famous Indian Rulers.