The play centers on the erratic and controversial reign of the fourteenth-century Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, whose complex psyche drives the narrative toward inevitable political collapse. Karnad presents the Sultan as a multifaceted intellectual—a scholar, poet, and mystic—whose idealistic visions clash violently with the harsh realities of his empire. The narrative follows Tughlaq’s descent into perceived madness as he attempts to implement radical reforms, facing opposition from religious factions, political rivals, and his own disillusioned subjects. Written as a play, the work utilizes a non-linear exploration of historical events to mirror the instability of the Sultan's rule. The structure forces the audience to confront the tension between the Sultan's philosophical intentions and the brutal consequences of his governance.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the play's effectiveness in using historical allegory to critique modern political systems. Discussion often centers on the nuanced portrayal of Tughlaq, who is depicted not merely as a madman but as a tragic figure trapped by his own intellect. The pacing is noted for its sharp, intellectual intensity, balancing character-driven monologues with the chaotic momentum of the Sultan's failing administration. Many scholars emphasize the work's enduring relevance, noting that its exploration of power and disillusionment remains a cornerstone of twentieth-century Indian drama.