Ala ad-Din Khilji was a prominent ruler of the Khilji dynasty in India, reigning from 1296 to 1316. He is known for his military conquests, which expanded the Delhi Sultanate significantly. His reign marked a period of economic growth and administrative reforms, including the introduction of market regulations and price controls. Khilji is also recognized for his ambitious campaigns against the Mongols and his efforts to strengthen the military. He is often associated with the construction of grand architectural projects, including the famous Alai Darwaza in Delhi, which showcases the Indo-Islamic architectural style of the time.