12th Century Beginnings: Delhi’s significance as a city began to escalate in the 12th century. Initially, it was under the rule of the Tomara Rajputs, a clan known for their administrative and military skills.

Chauhans Of Ajmer: The Tomaras were eventually defeated by the Chauhans, another powerful Rajput clan, who continued to develop Delhi as an important commercial hub. The city’s prosperity during this time is indicated by the presence of wealthy Jaina merchants and the construction of numerous temples.

Economic Importance: The minting of coins, known as dehliwal, underlines Delhi’s commercial significance, with these coins being circulated widely across the region.

Delhi Sultanate: The real transformation of Delhi into a capital of a major kingdom began with the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate in the early 13th century.

Five Dynasties: The Delhi Sultanate was ruled by five successive dynasties, which were the Mamluks (or Slave dynasty), Khilji dynasty, Tughlaq dynasty, Sayyid dynasty, and the Lodi dynasty. Each of these dynasties contributed to the expansion and consolidation of Delhi’s power.