Question

In how many groups was society divided during the Sultanate period? Discuss the functions of each group.

Answer 1

The society during the Sultanate was divided into four groups, namely

1. Aristocracy
2. Priests
3. Town Dwellers
4. Peasants

Functions of each group are:

1. Aristocracy: This was the ruling class. It consisted of the Sultan, the nobles, the Hindu rajas, and princes and landlords. This was the most powerful social group because they had wealth and power.
2. Priests: This group included the ulemas, maulvis, qazis and Brahmanas. The Ulemas were the chief advisors of the Sultans. The brahmanas were generally honored in the Hindu society. They both played an active role in the administration.
3. Town Dwellers: It consists of officials, artisans, craftsmen, merchants, slaves, and domestic servants. Among these, the merchants were quite prosperous.
4. Peasants: The peasants during that time were very poor and they had to lead a very hard life. They had to do all kind of small jobs and had to pay heavy taxes to government.