Who founded the Gujarat Sultanate, marking the beginning of Islamic rule in the region?

The correct answer is: a) Zafar Khan (Muzaffar Shah I).

Zafar Khan, also known as Muzaffar Shah I, was the founder of the Gujarat Sultanate. He was a member of the Muzaffarid dynasty and came to power in 1391 after overthrowing the Vaghela dynasty. He ruled Gujarat until his death in 1411.

Muzaffar Shah I was a successful military leader and expanded the Gujarat Sultanate to include much of present-day Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. He also built a number of important buildings in Gujarat, including the Jama Masjid in Ahmedabad.

The other options are incorrect because:

• b) Mahmud Begada was the third Sultan of the Gujarat Sultanate. He ruled from 1458 to 1511.
• c) Alauddin Khalji was the second Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1296 to 1316.
• d) Qutb-ud-din Aibak was the first Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1206 to 1210.