The Delhi Sultanate was a powerful Islamic empire that ruled over large parts of the Indian subcontinent for over three centuries, from 1206 to 1526 AD. It comprised five successive dynasties. The very first of these was the Mamluk Dynasty, also famously known as the Slave Dynasty. It was founded in 1206 AD by Qutb al-Din Aibak, a former Mamluk (slave soldier) of Muhammad Ghori, after Ghori's assassination. Aibak established his capital at Delhi and laid the groundwork for the Sultanate.
The other options represent subsequent dynasties of the Delhi Sultanate. The Khilji Dynasty succeeded the Mamluks in 1290 AD, known for its expansionist policies. The Tughlaq Dynasty followed the Khiljis in 1320 AD, marking a period of significant administrative changes. Finally, the Lodi Dynasty was the fifth and last dynasty, ruling from 1451 AD until its defeat by Babur in 1526 AD, which led to the establishment of the Mughal Empire. Thus, the Mamluk Dynasty holds the distinction of being the first.