Qutbuddin Aibak, founder of the Slave Dynasty, built the Dhai Din Ka Jhonpra Mosque in Ajmer shortly after conquering the region from the Chauhans. The mosque was constructed using portions of earlier Hindu-Jain temples, resulting in a distinctive architectural fusion. Its name, meaning “shed of two-and-a-half days,” may refer to the rapid early construction phase, although later additions continued beyond that period. As one of India’s earliest surviving mosques, it reflects the transitional phase of Indo-Islamic architecture. Aibak’s construction of this mosque symbolized the establishment of Muslim rule in Rajasthan and showcased early Sultanate architectural experimentation.

Iltutmish understood that the Doab — the fertile belt between the Ganga and Yamuna — was crucial to the Sultanate’s wealth and stability. Control over this region meant dependable agricultural revenue, a steady grain supply for the capital and a secure resource base for maintaining an army. Consequently, he placed administrative emphasis on consolidating authority there, improving land revenue arrangements and ensuring loyal local governance. This economic foresight helped stabilize the early Sultanate’s finances and allowed subsequent rulers to fund campaigns and public works. Iltutmish’s strategic focus on the Doab laid the groundwork for later administrative and fiscal policies in northern India.