Did Alauddin Khilji Defeat the Mongols and Save India from Invasion?
Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi from 1296 to 1316, is often remembered for his military conquests and harsh policies. However, historical records suggest that his actions may have inadvertently saved the Indian subcontinent from the Mongol invasion. A closer look at the events reveals a complex interplay of alliances, betrayals, and unexpected outcomes.
Alauddin Khilji and Mongol Soldiers
Yes, Alauddin Khilji did hire Mongol soldiers to learn their tactics. Not a fan of Khilji, the Mongols' intentions were somewhat ambiguous. They were part of Khilji's military campaigns, especially during his invasion of Gujarat in 1300. However, when returning, these Mongols revolted and allied with the Songara Chauhans of Jalore, attacking Khilji's Muslim camp and killing many officials.
Interestingly, these Mongols sought shelter under Hammirdeva Chauhan of Ranthambore, where they fought alongside the Rajputs. Despite the betrayal of Hammir's generals, the Mongols remained loyal to their cause. Additionally, Mongol warriors under Rai Karan supported the Vaghela resurgence in Gujarat. They were also part of Malik Kafur's invasion of the Pandyan Empire, though a Mongol commander named Abachi tried to conspire against Khilji but failed.
The Role of Alauddin Khilji in Mongol Conflicts
Despite these incidents where Mongol warriors fought against Khilji, the Mongol attacks on the Indian subcontinent were primarily aimed at the Delhi Sultanate. The battles at Kili Amaroha and Ravi River bear witness to this fact. No Mongol attack was directed against any native Indian ruler.
The Massacre Order
The turning point came when the Mongol leaders became resentful of Khilji. They planned to assassinate him during his flight with a small contingent of Mongol horsemen. However, Alauddin's agents unearthed the conspiracy, leading to a brutal order of his own. According to Barani, 20,000 to 30,000 Mongol men were massacred. This event suggests that while Khilji's actions may have contributed to the Mongols' retreat, he also played a role in weakening them within his own dominion.
Conclusion: A Complex Legacy
While Alauddin Khilji may not have directly defeated the Mongols, his actions, including the use of Mongol mercenaries and the subsequent massacre, may have indirectly contributed to the Mongols' retreat. However, the Mongol invasion did not end with Khilji; decades later, the Turko-Mongol ruler Timur's invasion brought a new wave of troubles to the Delhi Sultanate, finally bringing an end to the Tughlaq Dynasty.