**Razia Sultan: The First Female Ruler of the Delhi Sultanate**
Razia Sultan, also known as Razia Sultana, holds a unique and significant place in Indian history as she was the **first and only woman to rule the Delhi Sultanate**. She reigned from **1236 to 1240 CE**, challenging the deeply entrenched social, political, and gender norms of medieval India. Despite her short reign, Razia Sultan's rule stands as a symbol of courage, administrative prowess, and progressive leadership in a male-dominated society.Razia Sultan was the daughter of **Sultan Iltutmish**, one of the most powerful rulers of the Mamluk dynasty. Unlike many rulers of his time, Iltutmish recognized Razia's intelligence, leadership skills, and administrative abilities. He trained her in statecraft, military affairs, and governance, and often allowed her to participate in court matters. Historical accounts suggest that Iltutmish considered Razia more capable than his sons, many of whom were dissolute and undisciplined. Before his death, he nominated Razia as his successor,...