With reference to Indian history, who of the following were known as "Kulah-Daran"?

UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:

With reference to Indian history, who of the following were known as "Kulah-Daran"?

a) Arab merchants

b) Qalandars

c) Persian calligraphists

d) Sayyids

Correct Answer: Option d) Sayyids

Learn more about the Sayyid Dynasty in the given explanation below.

Explanation:

The Sayyids, who belonged to the theological class during the Delhi Sultanate era, were called as Kulah-Daran (cap-wearers). It was the distinctive pointed cap which gave them unique identity among the larger section of theologians who were generally referred to as Dastar-bandan (turban-wearers) which was their official head-dress.

The Sayyid Dynasty

• The Sayyid dynasty (1414-1451) was the fourth dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate, with four rulers ruling for 37 years. The first ruler of the dynasty, Khizr Khan, who was the Timurid vassal of Multan, conquered Delhi in 1414, while the rulers proclaimed themselves the Sultans of the Delhi Sultanate under Mubarak Shah, which succeeded the Tughlaq dynasty and ruled the Sultanate until they were displaced by the Lodi dynasty in 1451.
• The Sayyid dynasty was a period of relative stability for the Delhi Sultanate, after the turmoil of the preceding Tughlaq dynasty. The Sayyid rulers were able to consolidate their power and expand their territory, bringing much of northern India under their control. They also patronized the arts and sciences, and built a number of impressive monuments, including the Khizr Khan Mosque and the Mubarak Shah's Tomb in Delhi.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

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