Sultan Raziyya: Ruler of Delhi Sultanate

April 1, 2023

Sultan Raziyya (16th century) was the only female ruler ever to rule the Delhi Sultanate. It is said that she refused to be treated differently as a women. She took the title “Sultan” instead of Sultana. She wore gender-neutral clothes and ordered coins to be minted in her name. She was not only trained in military skills and warfare but was also a brave warrior. Many opponents were against her being a woman, as a ruler. Along with other rebels, they conspired against her and planned to attack. Razia then led an army out of the fortified city of Delhi to fight the rebels. She setup a camp on the banks of the river. Seeing her undefeated courage, the rebel leaders decided to accept defeat and joined her.  Apart from this, she was wise and generous benefactor to her realm. She was a major patron who setup educational institutes and libraries that facilitated researchers to work on the Quran and traditions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). She established peace and order in her domain. She enhanced the base of the nation by building streets while encouraging trade. She planted trees, burrowed wells and built places for exploration. She contributed in the field of craftsmanship and culture and supported scholars, poets, artists and musicians. Many historians praised of her bravery and courage. Firishta, an 18th century historian writes, “Though Razia was a woman, she had a man’s head and heart and was better than 20 sons”