Khizr Khan was the founder of the Sayyid dynasty, the
fourth and penultimate dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. After the death of Sultan Mahmud, the
last ruler of the Tughluq dynasty, in 1413, the nobles of Delhi entrusted Daulat
Khan Lodi with the task of ruling Delhi. However, in
March 1414, Khizr Khan, who was appointed
Governor of Multan, Lahore
and Dipalpur by the Mangol leader Timur Lang or Tamerlane who won
these places after invading India and sacking Delhi in 1398-99, defeated Daulat
Khan who was sent to Hissar Firuza as a prisoner.
According to some historians, Khizr Khan traced his descent to the Prophet. However, this view has been contested by other authorities. It seems probable that his ancestors might have belonged to Arabia.
Instead of assuming sovereign title, Khizr Khan choose to rule as viceroy of Timur's fourth son and successor, Shah Rukh. His reign of seven years was devoid of any important event. Delhi Sultanate was reduced to the extent of a small principality and Khizr Khan held sway over only a few districts adjoining the capital and his authority was challenged even in these places by the Hindu zamindars.
Khizr Khan died in 1421. He was succeeded to the throne by his son Mubarak Shah.
Khizr Khan has been described by the medieval historian Ferishta as "a just, generous and a benevolent prince". However he was not a strong ruler.
The Sayyids put on a pointed cap ( Kulah ) and they were known as Kulah – Daran.
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