Alauddin Khilji, born Ali Gurshasp, was the second ruler of the Khilji dynasty and Sultan of Delhi from 1296 to 1316. He is known for his military conquests, including the expansion of the Delhi Sultanate into southern India, and for his administrative and economic reforms. He also successfully defended his empire against numerous Mongol invasions. Early Life and Rise to Power: Early Life and Rise to Power: Alauddin was the nephew and son-in-law of Jalaluddin Khilji, the founder of the Khilji dynasty. He was appointed governor of Kara by Jalaluddin. In 1296, Alauddin murdered Jalaluddin and seized the throne, establishing himself as Sultan of Delhi. He initially sought to legitimize his rule by distributing wealth and gifts to the nobles, religious leaders, and common people, aiming to secure their support. Military Campaigns and Expansion: Alauddin Khilji was a highly ambitious military leader, undertaking extensive campaigns to expand his empire. He conquered Gujarat (1299), Ranthambore, Chittor, Malwa, Siwana, and Jalore. His general, Malik Kafur, led campaigns into the Deccan region, reaching as far south as Madurai, effectively extending the Delhi Sultanate's influence over much of the Indian subcontinent. He successfully defended his empire against numerous Mongol invasions at Jaran-Manjur, Sivistan, Kili, Delhi, and Amroha. He is credited with building a strong frontier defense system and improving military technology to deter future Mongol incursions. Administrative and Economic Reforms: Alauddin implemented significant administrative and economic reforms. He introduced land revenue reforms, including land measurement and collection of taxes in cash. He implemented price control measures to stabilize the market and ensure the availability of essential goods. He created a strong standing army, paid in cash, and introduced measures like branding horses (Dagh) and keeping a detailed description of soldiers (Chehra) to prevent corruption and improve military efficiency. He established a spy network (Bariid and Munhin) to monitor potential threats and maintain control. Legacy: Alauddin Khilji's reign was marked by both expansion and control, with significant achievements in military conquest and administrative reforms. He is remembered for his ambition, military prowess, and efforts to strengthen the Delhi Sultanate. His legacy is complex, marked by both success and the use of harsh methods to maintain power. Alauddin Khilji died in January 1316, and his death was followed by a period of instability and succession struggles within the Khilji dynasty.