Suri Dynasty

During the period extending from the year 1540 to 1545, Delhi was ruled by the Suri Dynasty. This dynasty was established by Sher Shah Suri. Before capturing Delhi he had ruled parts of eastern India. He defeated Humayun, the then Mughal ruler of Delhi and set the foundation of the Suri dynasty.

During his short reign of about 5 years, Sher Shah Suri extended his empire from Bengal in the east to the Indus River in the west. Development work was undertaken in a large scale. The administrative setup was tuned to efficiency. The Grant Trunk Road, linking Afghanistan with India was built during this period. This road, constructed with the view of connecting the remote parts of the Suri Empire, bears testimony to the administrative skill of the emperor.

Following his death in 1545, Sher Shah Suri was succeeded by his son Islam Shah Suri. The Suri Empire was ruled by Islam Shah till 1553. The dynasty however disintegrated due to internal conflicts. Taking advantage of the downfall, Humayun, who was in exile, recaptured Delhi. The last ruler of the Suri dynasty was Adil Shah, who ruled the empire till 1555.