This slave was Alauddin Khalji’s obsession, and he met a horrific end

Gaining authority in the turbulent hallways of Delhi in the thirteenth century often came at a high cost. This is best summed up in Alauddin Khilji’s compelling story, which is filled with ambition, intrigue, and eventually treachery.

After taking the Delhi throne in 1296, Alauddin Khilji had several difficulties from the start of his rule. The security of his authority was endangered by Mongol invasions, thus he needed a strong ally. Let me introduce Malik Kafur, a historical person whose impact would be enduring throughout the Sultanate.

According to legend, Alauddin was so taken by Malik Kafur’s skill that he was appointed as the Sultan’s right hand and given command over important military operations and choices. Alauddin aimed to conquer South India, building on the expansionist strategies of his forebears, and Kafur played a crucial role in realizing these goals.

However, history often demonstrates that power has two sides. One key factor turned out to be the attraction of Chittor’s Queen Padmavati. Kafur had encouraged Alauddin to lay siege to Chittor, but the prize had escaped him, which had increased his anger and mistrust of his reliable adviser.

There were murmurs of plans to overthrow Alauddin’s throne and rumors about Kafur’s desire. Historians who believe Kafur poisoned the Sultan as part of his covert power play. However, other stories surface, blaming natural causes for Alauddin’s death and raising questions about Kafur’s involvement.

After Alauddin’s death, Kafur seemed certain to rise to the throne, putting his own son in line. But things took a terrible turn with destiny. Alauddin’s devoted bodyguards exacted a cruel punishment, making sure Kafur suffered a terrible death.

Alauddin Khilji and Malik Kafur’s story is a warning against unbridled ambition and the forming and breaking of alliances in the sake of power.