Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15

Approach

• Introduction:
  • Commence by discussing the emergence of Persian literature during the Turkish rule’s establishment.
• Body:
  • Examine the reflection of the contemporary spirit in the literature.
  • Political Aspects: Delve into the genealogy of kings, conquests, and related themes.
  • Economic Aspects: Explore essential reforms, economic features, and urban developments.
  • Social Aspects: Investigate religious, cultural customs, rituals, and artistic expressions, including dance and music. Support these points with examples from works such as Khusro, Barani, Afif, Abu Fazal, etc.
• Conclusion:
  • Emphasize the significance of Persian literature as a valuable historical source.

Introduction

The convergence of Mughals, Turks, and Afghans facilitated an intricate exchange between Islamic and Indian cultures. Persian gained prominence as the predominant language during the medieval era, gradually superseding Sanskrit in regions under Muslim rule.

Body

Persian writers and literary works that embody the essence of their era

• Amir Khusrau’s notable works include Panch Ganj, Matla-ul-Anwar, Shirin wa Khuarav, Laila wa Majnun, Aina-i-Sikandari, and Hasht Bihisht.
  • He integrated Hindi words and themes into his Persian compositions.
  • His ghazals featured a blend of Persian and Hindi.
• Shams Siraj Afif’s Takih-Firoz Shahi provides insights into Firoz Shah Tughlaq’s (14th century) reign.
  • Details about Firoz’s policies, such as the irrigation tax and his passion for creating gardens, are featured.
• Khawaja Najm-ud-Din Hasan’s Fawaid-ul-Faud chronicles conversations with Nizamud-Din Aulia, serving as a valuable resource for Sufi philosophy.
• Abu’l Fazl’s Akbarnama and Ain-i-Akbari are masterpieces depicting the Mughal era.
  • They offer glimpses into Akbar’s policies of religious and social tolerance, exemplified by the concept of Sulh-e Kul.
  • Ain-i-Akbari describes the Mughal Empire’s administrative system, Hindu sciences, Akbar’s household, army, revenues, and geography.
• Dara Shikoh’s translations of Hindu scriptures include the Upanishads, compiled as Sirr-i-Akbar (1657), and the Bhagavad Gita.
  • His efforts were aimed at fostering a connection between Hindu and Islamic traditions.

Conclusion

As the Muslims arrived in the subcontinent, Persian, an Aryan language closely related to Sanskrit, was introduced to India, a land characterized by the convergence of various faiths, languages, and cultures. This diverse environment has a rich tradition of assimilation and amalgamation, resulting in a harmonious cultural synthesis amidst diversity.

To complete UPSC Polity Notes, Click Here

Join our Official Telegram Channel HERE
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel HERE
Follow our Instagram ID HERE