[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Studies](https://indike.org/pramana/ins) › [General history and culture](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general) › [The Legacy of Muslim Rule in India](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992) › c8.s2.2 # The Legacy of Muslim Rule in India c8.s2.2 The Legacy of Muslim Rule in India c8.s2.2 - **Language:** English ### [c8.s2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992.c8.s2.2) The Muslim Sultanate in Hindustan was carved out and maintained by the sword, but it derived sustenance also from some moral bases of political power. These consisted of the governments unqualified propagation of the Islamic religion, adherence to the \*Shariat\* law, regard for the Ulama and Sufis, and recognition of the supremacy of the Caliph. The sultans feigned to have trumped-up geneologies and on that basis claimed respect for the regime. The Ghaznavids and Ghaurids were plebians but to acquire legitimacy they sought high pedigrees, took grandiose titles, claimed divine origin for their kingship, and connected themselves with the old ruling families of Iran and Turan.⁴⁵ Balban sought his descent from Afrasiyab, the legendary hero of Persia, and gave to his sorts and grandsons names of old Persian princes. Every sultan took high-sounding titles, and the Ulama made him and the people believe that he was the shadow of God on earth. Fictitious geneologies counted in politics, high titles created awe, and divine right and religious fervour earned the respect of high and low. - [Previous: c8.s2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992.c8.s2.1) - [Next: c8.s2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992.c8.s2.3) - [Up: c8.s2](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992.c8.s2) --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992.c8.s2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.general.lal-1992.c8.s2.2) · Pramāṇa