Dr M Ishaque Memorial Lecture Explores Turkish Military Conquest & Governance

Aligarh : The 21st Dr M Ishaque Memorial Lecture, organized by the Iran Society, witnessed a discourse on “The Turkish Military Conquest and Governance of North India” by Professor Ali Athar. Held in memory of Dr. M. Ishaque, this annual Lecture was an intellectually stimulating and enlightening journey through history, uncovering the dynamics of Turkish conquest and governance in North India.

Professor Md. Mansoor Alam, former General Secretary of the Iran Society, graced the occasion as the chairperson and introduced the speaker. Dr. Fuad Halim provided a poignant tribute to Dr. M. Ishaque, emphasizing the significance of this lecture series. The vote of thanks was extended by Professor Ram Ahlad Choudhary, and the program was expertly moderated by Khwaja Jaweed Yusuf.

In aexploration of history, Professor Ali Athar delved into the Turkish conquest of North India, commencing in 1171. He highlighted the Central Asian forces’ prowess, including their skilled mounted archers and unique army organization, which set them apart from their Indian counterparts, particularly the Rajputs. Ghori’s army, known for stringent recruitment and advanced military equipment, achieved remarkable success in the region.

The lecture shed light on the governance strategies employed during Shahabuddin Ghori’s rule, emphasizing the cultivation of intellectual elites, the bestowal of honors upon men of letters, and the strategic granting of feudal lordships to forge alliances. Impartial dispensation of justice played a pivotal role in their administration, while coexistence with the Rajputs added another layer to their multifaceted rule.