Bahlul Lodi, in the nearly four decades of Pashtun rule over the Delhi Sultanate, has expanded the miniscule territory bequeathed by the last Sayyid ruler to include all of Punjab and the present state of Uttar Pradesh, as well as parts of Rajasthan.

Sikandar, the son of Sultan Bahlul Khan Lodi and Bibi Ambha, the daughter of a Hindu goldsmith of Sirhind, had become Sultan upon the death of his father on July 17, 1489.

His rise to power was troubled, as his older brother, Barbak Shah, the viceroy of Jaunpur, also lays claim to the throne, even though their father had nominated Sikandar.

However, Sikandar is able to ascend to the throne without massive bloodshed, and even allowshis brother to continue ruling Jaunpur.

He also settles differences with an uncle, Alam Khan, who is also suspected of seeking to seize power.