Explain briefly the importance of the office of Sultan during the Delhi Sultanate.

The Sultan's office was the most important one in Delhi Sultanate. Most of the Sultans regarded themselves as the representative of Caliph and included the name of Caliph in the Khutba and the Sikka but Sultans from the time of Balban called themselves as Naib-e-Khuda, i.e., Deputy of God and Zill-i-Illahi, i.e., the shadow of God. The sultan was vested with all the political, legal and military powers. He was responsible for the safety and security of the state. He was responsible for maintenance of law and justice. For this purpose, judges were appointed. The sultan acted as a court of appeal from the judges. A direct appeal could be made to the Sultan against any of his officials. Sultan was also the commander-in-chief of the military forces.