Slaves
Explanation
During the early Delhi Sultanate, particularly under the Ilbari Turks (Slave Dynasty), the administration relied heavily on a unique institution of military slavery. The Sultans often preferred special slaves purchased for military service over their own sons or landed chieftains for maintaining control over the empire.
Detailed Analysis:
- The Persian term "Bandagan" (singular: banda) literally translates to slaves.
- These were not ordinary domestic slaves but were carefully selected and trained to man some of the most important political and military offices in the kingdom.
- Since they were totally dependent upon their master (the Sultan), the Sultan could trust and rely upon them more than the hereditary nobles who often had their own independent ambitions.
- This system was notably consolidated by Sultan Iltutmish, who organized his most trusted slaves into a corps known as Turkan-i-Chahalgani (The Forty).
Key Takeaway:
Bandagan refers to the special military slaves in the Delhi Sultanate who were trained for high administrative positions and were considered more loyal than hereditary aristocrats.