Qutubuddin Aibak died as a result of a horse-riding accident sustained during a polo match in 1210 CE.
The Fatal Polo Accident
Qutubuddin Aibak, the founder of the Mamluk dynasty in India, met his unfortunate end while playing chaugan, a medieval form of polo. In 1210 CE, just five years after he became the leader of India following Mu'izz al-Din's death in 1205 CE, he was involved in a grave accident during a match.
- The Incident: While playing polo, Qutubuddin Aibak fell from his horse.
- Injuries: The fall inflicted severe injuries, specifically fractured ribs.
- Cause of Death: These fractured ribs tragically punctured his lungs, leading to his swift demise.
His death was sudden and unexpected, bringing an end to his relatively short but impactful reign as the first Sultan of Delhi.