Ala-ud-din Khalji

Ala-ud-din Khalji ascended the throne of the Delhi Sultanate after assassinating his uncle Jalal-ud-din Khalji. He consolidated power by eliminating rivals and implementing a centralized administration.

Ala-ud-din Khalji defeated a Mongol invasion led by Qutlugh Khwaja near Delhi. He subsequently repelled several Mongol incursions between 1299 and 1306, using a combination of fortifications and military tactics, securing the Delhi Sultanate's northern frontier.

Ala-ud-din Khalji led a campaign against the Vaghela kingdom of Gujarat, defeating King Karna II. He annexed Gujarat and plundered the Somnath temple, bringing immense wealth to the Delhi Sultanate.

Ala-ud-din Khalji implemented a system of price controls for essential goods, including grain, cloth, and horses. He established state granaries and fixed wages, aiming to maintain a stable economy and support his large army.

Ala-ud-din Khalji's general Malik Kafur led campaigns into the Deccan, defeating the Yadava, Kakatiya, and Hoysala kingdoms. These conquests extended Delhi's rule to the southern tip of India and brought tribute from the Deccan states.