Delhi Sultanate: Literature is part of Medieval History of India. Below are notes on 10 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Amir Khusrau: His Contributions to Poetry, Music, and Language

  • Amir Khusrau Dehlavi (1253-1325 AD): Persian poet, musician, scholar.
  • Titles: Known as 'Parrot of Hindustan' (Tutie-Hind).
  • Birthplace: Patiali, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Spiritual Guide: Disciple of Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya. ity; often less ornate. Utilized grey quartzite, rubble masonry, and extensive plaster.
  • Sloping Walls (Batter): A distinctive Tughlaq architectural feature, particularly seen in fortifications and tombs, providing a fortified appearance and structural stability.
  • Tughlaqabad Fort (Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, c. 1321-1323): Founder of Tughlaq dynasty. Massive fort city with high, formidable walls, characterized by prominent sloping walls (batter).
  • Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq (c. 1325): Located adjacent to Tughlaqabad Fort. Features sloping walls (batter) like the fort. Square plan, red sandstone walls, contrasting with a white marble dome. One of the earliest examples of a dome resting on an octagonal drum.
  • Firoz Shah Kotla (Firoz Shah Tughlaq, c. 1354): Built as his new capital, Firozabad. Simpler, more utilitarian architecture. Notable for the Ashoka Pillar brought from Topra and Meerut and re-erected within the complex.
  • Chronological Context for MCQ:
    • Qutub Minar (c. 1192-1220s): Mamluk Dynasty (Qutb al-Din Aibak, Iltutmish).
    • Tughlaqabad Fort (c. 1321-1323): Tughlaq Dynasty (Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq).
    • Bada Gumbad (1494): Lodi Dynasty.
    • Fatehpur Sikri (c. 1569-1580s): Mughal Dynasty (Akbar).
  • Patronage: Served under 7 Delhi Sultanate rulers, including Balban's son Muhammad Khan, Kaiqubad, Jalaluddin Khalji, Alauddin Khalji, Mubarak Khalji, and Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. His accounts cover Balban, Alauddin Khilji, and Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. He did not extensively cover Muhammad-binTughlaq as a primary patron.
  • Poetry & Language Contributions:
    • Created a new literary style in Persian called Sabaq-i-Hindi (Indian Style).
    • Pioneered the use of Hindavi (early Urdu/local language) in poetry, composing dohas, riddles, and ghazals.
    • Stated: "Every pearl in the Royal Crown is but the crystallized drops of blood fallen from the tearful eyes of the poor peasants..."
  • Musical Contributions:
    • Blended Hindu and Iranian musical systems.
    • Evolved Qawwali, a new style of light music.
    • Introduced new musical ragas such as ghora and sanam. Also associated with qa'ul, tarana, tilana, suhila.
    • Credited with inventing/modifying musical instruments like sarangi and rabab.
  • Major Literary Works:
    • Poetic Works (Masnavis/Diwans):
      • Qiran-us-Sadain (Meeting of Kaiqubad & Bughra Khan).
      • Miftah-ul-Futuh (Victories of Jalaluddin Khalji).
      • Ashiqa (also known as Dewal Rani Khizr Khan).
      • Nuh Siphir (Nine Skies, a patriotic ode to India).
      • Tughlaqnama (History of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq).
      • Ain-e-Sikandari.
    • Prose Works:
      • Khazain-ul-Futuh (Treasures of Victories, also known as Tarikhi-Alai, chronicles Alauddin Khalji's campaigns, including the invasion of Chittor).
      • Ijaz-e-Khusravi (Collection of letters and documents).
      • Afzal-ul-Fawaid (Sufi discourses/Malfuzat of Nizamuddin Auliya).
  • Works NOT attributed to Amir Khusrau (as per MCQs):
    • Tarikh-i-Firuz Shahi
    • Sirat-i-Firuz Shahi

Courtly Romances and Epics in Persian

  • Chand Bardai: Prithvi Raj Raso.
  • Jagnik: Alha-Khand.
  • Narpati Nalh: Bisal Deo Raso.
  • Dalpati Vijay: Khuman Raso.
  • Padmanabha: Kanhadade Prabandha.
  • Hamir Raso: Not authored by Abdur Rehman (Authored by Sarangdhar/Jodhraj).
  • Abdur Rehman: Authored Sandesh Rasak.
  • Vijaypal Raso: Not authored by Narpati Nalh (Authored by Nallah Singh).

Didactic, Ethical, and Moral Literature

  • Insha Literature: Collections of personal letters and state correspondence, often serving as models for prose writing and containing didactic elements, administrative advice, and moral guidance.
  • Fakhr-i-Mudabbir (also known as Fakhr-eMudabbir): A significant literary figure of the Delhi Sultanate period.
  • Adab-ul-Harb wa'l-Shuja'a (or Adab-ulHarb): A didactic and ethical treatise authored by Fakhr-i-Mudabbir.
  • Subject of Adab-ul-Harb: Focuses on the art of war, military strategy, the ethics of warfare, and the ideal conduct expected from rulers and generals, thus embodying moral and didactic principles.

Emergence and Growth of Regional Vernacular Literature (e.g., Hindavi)

  • 'Udwant Prakash' was authored by Mauli Kavi.
  • Amir Khusru is known as the ‘Father of Hindi Khadi Boli’.
  • Amir Khusru was the first writer to use Urdu as a medium of poetic expression.
  • The term 'Apabhramsa' in medieval Sanskrit texts denoted early forms of some modern Indian languages.
  • 'Achaldas Khichi Ri Vachanika' is a Rajasthani language work written in both prose and poetry.
  • 'Beesaldeyo Raso' was authored by Narpati Nalha.
  • 'Khuman Raso' was authored by Dalpat Vijay.
  • 'Veli Krisan Rukmani Ri' was authored by Prithviraj Rathore.
  • 'Rao Jaitsi Ro Chhand' was authored by Shivdas Gadan.

Indo-Persian

Historiography:

Major

Chroniclers and their Works

Minhaj al-Siraj Juzjani: 1.

    • Work: Tabaqat-i-Nasiri (completed 1260 AD).
    • Content: General history of Islamic world, significant section on India, covers Balban's period.
    • Features: Lived with ruling elite, frequently used religious terminology, viewed wars between Islamic armies and 'Devil's forces', did not state causation of work solely in human hands. Ziauddin Barani: 2.
    • Work: Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi (covers from Ghiyas-ud-din Balban's period till early Firuz Shah Tughlaq's reign).
    • Work: Fatawa-i-Jahandari (political philosophy). Amir Khusrau: 3.
    • Work: Tughlaqnama.
    • Work: Kiran-us-Sadain (first written reference to the Spinning Wheel/ Charkha).
    • Work: Tarikh-i-Dilli (general reference, potentially referring to his collective works on Delhi).
    • Work: Khazain-ul-Futuh (also known as Tarikh-i-Alai).
    • Accompanied Alauddin Khalji during the Chittor Expedition in 1303 A.D. Shams-i-Siraj Afif: 4.
    • Work: Tarikh-i-Firuz Shahi (another distinct work from Barani's). Firuz Shah Tughlaq: 5.
    • Work: Futuhat-i-Firozshahi (autobiography). Al-Biruni: 6.
    • Work: Kitab-ul-Hind (also known as Tarikh-i-Hind, early 11th century). Ibn Battuta: 7.
    • Work: Rihla (famous travel book, 14th century). Isami: 8.
    • Work: Futuh-us Salatin. Hasan Nizami: 9.
    • Work: Taj-ul-Maasir (first official history of the Delhi Sultanate, begins with Qutb al-Din Aibak). Sadruddin Muhammad "Aufi": 10.
    • Work: Jawamiul Hikayat (contains the earliest reference to the use of a magnetic compass in the Indian seas). Abdul Wahid Bilgrami: 11.
    • Work: Haqaiq-i-Hindi. Ibn Miskawayh: 12.
    • Work: Tahdhibul Akhlaq. Bailaq al Qabayaki (al-Qabajaqi): 13.
    • Work: Kunzal Tijar (mentions the magnetic compass). Amir Timur: 14.
    • Work: Malfuzat-i-Timuri (also Tuzuki-Timuri, autobiography). Al-Masudi: 15.
    • Work: Al-Tanbih wa al-Ishraf. (Note: He did NOT write Kitab-ul-Hind). Gulbadan Begam: 16.
    • Work: Humayunnama. Chand Bardai: 17.
    • Work: Prithviraja-Raso (12th century). Abdul Qadir Badayuni: 18.
    • Work: Muntakhab-ut-Tawarikh. (Note: Amir Khusrau did NOT write this). Nizamuddin Ahmad: 19.
    • Work: Tabaqat-i-Akbari. Sirat-i-Firuz Shahi: Contains the painted 20. illustration of the moving of the Ashoka Pillar at Topra. Chronological Order of Texts: 21. Kitab-ul-Hind (Al-Biruni, 11th cen1. tury) Prithviraja-Raso (Chand Bardai, 12th 2. century) Tabaqat-i-Nasiri (Minhaj al-Siraj 3. Juzjani, 13th century) Fatawa-i-Jahandari (Ziauddin Barani, 4. 14th century)

Influence of Arabic Learning and Islamic Sciences on Literature

  • Al-Biruni, a prominent Islamic scholar, authored the work 'Kitab-ul-Hind'.
  • 'Kitab-ul-Hind' was written in Arabic.
  • Ibn Battuta, a Moroccan explorer, wrote the travelogue 'Rihla' (or 'Rehla').
  • Ibn Battuta's 'Rihla' was written in Arabic.

Lexicography and Grammatical Works

  • Hemachandra (12th Century Jain scholar): Authored Desinamamala (a dictionary of Prakrit words) and Siddha-Hema-Shabdanushasana (a Sanskrit-Prakrit grammar).
  • Lekhapaddhati (13th Century text): A compilation providing models for drafting various types of legal, administrative, and personal documents, offering insight into contemporary legal and land-grant practices.

Manuscript Production, Calligraphy, and Illustration

  • Paper came into widespread use in India from the 13th century, coinciding with the Delhi Sultanate period, gradually replacing traditional writing materials like palm leaves and birch bark.
  • Manuscript production during the Sultanate involved specialized workshops (kitabkhanas) and skilled artisans including scribes (katibs), illuminators/painters (mussavirs), and bookbinders.
  • Calligraphy was a highly esteemed art, with Naskh (rounded script, often for Quranic texts) and Nastaliq (a more cursive, flowing Persian script) being prominent styles.
  • Illustration (miniature painting) during this era exhibited a fusion of indigenous Indian artistic traditions with significant Persian influences, characterized by vibrant colors, linear forms, and detailed ornamentation.

10. Delhi Sultanate: Miscellaneous

11. Provincial Dynasty of North India and Deccan Province

Sanskrit Literary Output and Commentaries

  • Kalhana: Rajatarangini
  • Banabhatta: Harshacharita
  • Chand Bardai: Prithvirajaraso
  • Sandhyakaranandi: Ramcharitra
  • Bilhana: Vikramankadevacharita
  • Hemchandra: Kumarapalacharitam
  • Chakrapanidatta (11th Century CE, Bengal): Bhanumati (commentary on Sushrut Samhita)
  • Jaisingh Suri: Hammirmardan
  • Jayanak: Prithviraj Vijaya
  • Somadeva (or Somendra): Lalitavigraharaja (Sanskrit drama)

Translations and Adaptations Between Sanskrit and Persian

  • Khwaza Ziya-uddin Nakhshabi translated Chintamani Bhatt's Sanskrit text 'Suka Saptati' into Persian.
  • Nakhshabi's Persian translation of 'Suka Saptati' was titled 'Tutinama' (Book of the Parrot).
  • 'Tutinama' is a collection of 52 stories narrated by a parrot to a woman over 52 nights, preventing her from leaving her husband.
  • This translation exemplifies the cultural exchange and adaptation of Indian literary works into Persian during the Delhi Sultanate.

Hasan Ganga assumed the title Alauddin 3. Bahman Shah. The first capital of the Bahmani Kingdom 4. was Gulbarga. Key Bahmani rulers in chronological order 5. include: Alauddin Bahman Shah, Firuz Shah, Ahmad Shah, and Muhammad Shah III. Alauddin Bahman Shah sought annual tribute 6. from the State of Warangal and the Reddi Kingdoms of Rajamundry and Kondaveedu, leading to frequent wars. The death of Mahmud Gawan marked 'the 7. beginning of the end' of the Bahmani Kingdom. Bahmani architecture exhibited distinct ori8. ginality and an independent style. Bahmani architectural elements were derived 9. from the Delhi Sultanate and distant Persian styles. The forts built by the Bahmanis were signi10. ficant monuments, considered to exceed contemporary constructions in Europe. Bahmani architecture reflected a harmonious 11. blend of both Hindu and Islamic styles.

Practice MCQs: Delhi Sultanate: Literature

Amir Khusrau: His Contributions to Poetry, Music, and Language

  1. Who was termed as 'Parrot of Hindustan'?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Amir Khusru
    2. Kabir
    3. Sultan Mahmud
    4. Muhammad Ghori
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Amir Khusru

    Amir Khusrau was a versatile literary figure and composer who played a significant role in the cultural synthesis of India.

  2. "Every pearl in the Royal Crown is but the crystallized drops of blood falleb from the tearful eyes of the poor peasants..." Who made this statement?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Ibn Batuta
    2. Al-Beruni
    3. Amir Khusru
    4. Badauni
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Amir Khusru

    - Amir Khusru Dehlavi (1253-1325) was a celebrated figure in the cultural history of the Indian subcontinent, associated with the Delhi Sultanate period. - This quote reflects the harsh realities of the time, highlighting the exploitation of common people, particularly peasants, whose labour and suffering contributed to the wealth and grandeur of the rulers.

  3. Consider the following statements regarding Amir Khusrau. 1. He introduced new musical ragas such as ghora and sanam. 2. He evolved a new style of light music known as qwalis by blending the Hindu and Iranian systems. 3. He authored the work Tuglaq Nama. Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2024

    1. 1 only
    2. 1, 2, 3
    3. 1, 3
    4. 1, 2
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1, 2, 3

    Amir Khusrau (1253-1325) was a celebrated Sufi musician, poet, and scholar associated with the Delhi Sultanate period. He is often referred to as the "father of Qawwali" and the "parrot of India" (Tuti- e-Hind) for his poetic genius.

  4. Which of the following are the contributions of Amir Khusrao to cultural development of India? 1. He introduced many new ragas such as ghora and sanam. 2. He evolved a new style of music known as qawwali. 3. He invented sarangi and rabab. 4. He created a new style of Persian poetry called Sabaq-i-hind

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2019

    1. 2 and 3 only
    2. 1, 2 and 4 only
    3. 2, 3 and 4 only
    4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1, 2 and 4 only

    - Statement 1 is correct. Amir Khusrao is credited with introducing many new ragas and musical forms, although specific names like 'ghora' and 'sanam' might require detailed verification, his overall contribution to Indian classical music and its fusion with Persian styles is well-established. - Statement 2 is correct. Amir Khusrao is widely regarded as the originator of the qawwali style of music, which blends Persian and Indian musical traditions. - Statement 3 is incorrect. While Amir Khusrao was a musician and contributed to musical instruments, the invention of the sarangi and rabab is not definitively attributed solely to him. The rabab existed before his time, and the sarangi evolved over a long period. - Statement 4 is correct. Amir Khusrao pioneered a new style of Persian poetry adapted to the Indian environment, known as Sabaq-i-hind or the 'Indian style'.

  5. Amir Khusrau has been regarded as the greatest Persian poet of the period of Delhi Sultanate. Which among the following Works was not written by him ?

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2014

    1. Tarikh-i-Firuz Shahi
    2. Ashiqa
    3. Qiran-us-Sadain
    4. Mifrah-ul-Futuh
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Tarikh-i-Firuz Shahi

    Tarikh-i-Firuz Shahi is a historical work detailing the history of the Delhi Sultanate up to the reign of Firuz Shah Tughlaq. There are two famous works with this title: one written by Ziauddin Barani and another by Shams-i-Siraj Afif. Neither of these was authored by Amir Khusrau.

  6. Consider the following statements :

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2015

    1. Amir Khusro created a new literary style in Persian which came to be known as Sabaq-i-Hindi.
    2. Amir Khusro was a disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya.
    3. He introduced the Perso-Arabic ragas etc. Which of the above statements is/are correct ? Select the code for the correct answer from the options given below : A. A only B. A and C only C. B and C only
    4. A, B and C
    Show answer

    Answer: D. A, B and C

    Amir Khusro was a multifaceted personality of the Delhi Sultanate period, excelling in poetry, music, and spirituality. His contributions had a lasting impact on Indian culture.

  7. Who among the following wrote the book 'Khazain-ul-Futuh' ?

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Hasan Nizami
    2. Amir Khusrau
    3. Minhas-us-Siraj
    4. Ziauddin Barni
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Amir Khusrau

    Amir Khusrau was a renowned poet, musician, and scholar who served several sultans of Delhi, including Alauddin Khalji. He is often called the "Parrot of India" (Tuti-e-Hind).

  8. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below: List-I List-II

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2019

    1. Mulla Daud 1. Chandayan
    2. Damodar Kavi 2. Ashiqa
    3. Somnath 3. Padmavati Katha
    4. Amir Khusro 4. Rag Vibodh Codes: A B C D (a) 1 3 2 4 (b) 1 3 4 2 (c) 2 4 1 3 (d) 1 2 3 4 A. 1 3 2 4 B. 1 3 4 2 C. 2 4 1 3 D. 1 2 3 4
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Damodar Kavi 2. Ashiqa

    - Mulla Daud is known for composing "Chandayan," a famous Awadhi romance, considered one of the earliest works of Hindi literature in the Sufi tradition. - Damodar Kavi wrote "Padmavati Katha" in Gujarati, a medieval work distinct from Malik Muhammad Jayasi's "Padmavat" written in Awadhi. - Somnath is the author of "Rag Vibodh," a significant treatise on Indian classical music (Raga). - Amir Khusro, a renowned poet, musician, and scholar associated with the Delhi Sultanate period, wrote "Ashiqa" (also known as Deval Rani-Khizr Khan), a historical masnavi. - The correct match is A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2. Comparing this with the given options, code (b) is the correct one.

  9. Who is known as the 'Parrot of India'?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. Jimutavahana
    2. Al-Beruni
    3. Ibn-Batutah
    4. Amir Khusru
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Amir Khusru

    - Amir Khusru was a central figure in the cultural history of the Indian subcontinent. - His contributions spanned poetry (in Persian, Hindavi), music (development of instruments like the sitar and tabla), and philosophy. - He served under several sultans of the Delhi Sultanate, from Balban to Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq.

  10. Ameeer Khusrowassssss court poet of:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1995

    1. Mohammad-bin-Tuglak
    2. Allauddin Khilii
    3. Shershah Suri
    4. Humayun
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Allauddin Khilii

    - Ameer Khusrow was a contemporary of the mystic saint Nizamuddin Auliya. - He is often called the "Parrot of India" (Tuti-e-Hind). - His work includes poetry in Persian and Hindavi (an early form of Hindi/Urdu). - He is credited with contributions to the development of Hindustani classical music, including innovations in ragas and musical instruments.

Courtly Romances and Epics in Persian

  1. Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2010

    1. Abdur Rehman - Hamir Raso
    2. Chand Bardai - Prithvi Raj Raso
    3. Jagnik - Alha-Khand
    4. Narpati Nalh - Bisal Deo Raso
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Abdur Rehman - Hamir Raso

    Hamir Raso is generally attributed to Sarangdhar or sometimes Jajjal, detailing the exploits of Hammir Dev of Ranthambore. Abdur Rehman is known for his work 'Sandesh Rasak'. The other pairs are correctly matched: Chand Bardai wrote Prithvi Raj Raso, Jagnik composed Alha-Khand, and Narpati Nalh wrote Bisal Deo Raso.

  2. Who among the following pair is not correctly matched? (1) Khuman Raso - Dalpati Vijay (2) Kanhadade Prabandha - Padmanabha (3) Prithviraj Raso - Chand Bardai (4) Vijaypal Raso -Narpati Nalh (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Archaeology and Museums Dept. Exam 2023 (Exploration and Excavation Officer) 2023

    1. Khuman Raso - Dalpati Vijay
    2. Kanhadade Prabandha - Padmanabha
    3. Prithviraj Raso - Chand Bardai
    4. Vijaypal Raso - Narpati Nalh
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Vijaypal Raso - Narpati Nalh

    The correct attributions are: - Khuman Raso - Dalpati Vijay - Kanhadade Prabandha - Padmanabha - Prithviraj Raso - Chand Bardai - Vijaypal Raso - Nal Singh - Bisaldev Raso - Narpati Nalh

  3. Who is the author of famous treatise Kanhadade Prabandha? (1) Malik Muhammad Jayasi (2) Suryamal Misran (3) Ranchhod Bhatt (4) Padmanabha (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Officer) 2024

    1. Malik Muhammad Jayasi
    2. Suryamal Misran
    3. Ranchhod Bhatt
    4. Padmanabha
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Padmanabha

    Padmanabha is the author of the Kanhadade Prabandha, a significant medieval literary work that details the bravery and resistance of Kanhadade of Jalor against the invading forces of Alauddin Khilji.

Didactic, Ethical, and Moral Literature

  1. What do you understand by Insha Literature? (1) Land grant letters (2) Poetic compositions (3) Personal letters and State correspondence (4) Biographies (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Scholar) 2024

    1. Land grant letters
    2. Poetic compositions
    3. Personal letters and State correspondence
    4. Biographies
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Personal letters and State correspondence

    Insha literature encompasses formal and informal written communications.

  2. Name of the book written by Fakhr-i- Mudabbir on the art of war was

    Asked in: UPPSC ACF RFO gs 1 2021

    1. Kitab-as-Saydana
    2. Chachnama
    3. Tutinama
    4. Adab-ul-Harb
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Adab-ul-Harb

    The book written by Fakhr-i-Mudabbir on the art of war was "Adab-ul-Harb".

Emergence and Growth of Regional Vernacular Literature (e.g., Hindavi)

  1. The author of 'Udwant Prakash' is

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 60 62rd

    1. Mauli Kavi
    2. Bodhraj
    3. Paramala
    4. Vidyapati
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Mauli Kavi

    The text primarily deals with the history and lineage of the Ujjainiya Rajputs of Bihar.

  2. Who among the following is known as the ‘Father of Hindi Khadi Boli’ ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. Amir Khusru
    2. Malik Muhammad Jaisi
    3. Kabir
    4. Abdul Rahim-Khan-i-Khanan
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Amir Khusru

    Amir Khusru's works often incorporated words and phrases from the local vernacular spoken around Delhi, contributing significantly to the foundation of Khari Boli.

  3. The first writer to use Urdu as the medium of poetic expression was

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1999

    1. Amir Khusru
    2. Mirza Ghalib
    3. Bahadur Shah Zafar
    4. Faiz
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Amir Khusru

    Amir Khusru Dehlavi (1253–1325 AD) was a prolific poet, musician, and scholar who lived during the Delhi Sultanate period. He wrote in Persian and also composed poetry in Hindavi, which is considered a precursor to modern Hindi and Urdu. He played a significant role in the development of the language and its literary forms.

  4. The term apabhramsa was used in medieval Sanskrit texts to denote

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1996

    1. outcastes among the Rajputs
    2. deviations from Vedic rituals
    3. early forms of some of the modern Indian lan‐ guages
    4. non-Sanskrit verse metres
    Show answer

    Answer: C. early forms of some of the modern Indian lan‐ guages

    Apabhramsa was a stage in the evolution of Indo- Aryan languages, bridging the gap between Prakrit and modern Indo-Aryan languages.

  5. Which of the following work of Rajasthani language was written in both prose and poetry?

    Asked in: PTI and Librarian (Sanskrit College Edu.) 2024

    1. Kanhadde Prabandh
    2. Achaldas Khichi Ri Vachanika
    3. Harikeli
    4. Veli Krisan – Rukmani Ri
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Harikeli

    'Kanhadde Prabandh' is an epic poem in Gujarati, not Rajasthani, and is primarily in verse. 'Achaldas Khichi Ri Vachanika' is a prose work that narrates the story of Achaldas Khichi. 'Veli Krisan – Rukmani Ri' is a famous epic poem written in the Marwari dialect of Rajasthani.

  6. Who was the author of Beesaldeyo Raso?

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Sec. Edu.) Comp. Exam 2022

    1. Chand Bardai
    2. Mahesh Das
    3. Suryamall Mishran
    4. Narpati Nalha
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Narpati Nalha

    (G.K. Group A)-2022 'Beesaldeyo Raso' is a significant work of Rajasthani literature attributed to Narpati Nalha. It is an epic poem that recounts the legends and deeds of Bisaldev (Vigraharaja IV) of the Chauhan dynasty.

  7. which of the following pair is not correctly matched?

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Spl. Edu.) 2015

    1. bisaldev raso (book) - narpati nalha (author)
    2. khuman raso (book) - dalpat vijay (author)
    3. veli-krishan-rukmani-ri (book) - prithviraja rathore (author)
    4. rao jaitsi ro chhand (book) - shivdas gadan (author)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. rao jaitsi ro chhand (book) - shivdas gadan (author)

    The book 'Rao Jaitsi ro Chhand' was written by Bitthu Suja, not Shivdas Gadan. All other listed pairs are correctly matched.

Indo-Persian Historiography: Major Chroniclers and their Works

  1. The painted illustration of the moving of the Ashoka Pillar at Topra is found in

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2021

    1. Tarikh-i-Firuz Shahi
    2. Tarikh-i-Shahi
    3. Sirat-i-Firuz Shahi
    4. Akbar Nama
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Sirat-i-Firuz Shahi

    - Sirat-i-Firuz Shahi is an anonymous contemporary account of the reign of Firuz Shah Tughlaq (1351-1388). - This text describes Firuz Shah's various activities, including his passion for public works and his interest in historical monuments. - It specifically mentions and illustrates the process by which Firuz Shah had two Ashoka pillars transported to Delhi – one from Topra (near Ambala) and the other from Meerut.

  2. Which of the following is not correctly matched?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2023

    1. Ibn Battuta - Rihla
    2. Al-Masudi - Kitab-ul-Hind
    3. Hiuen Tsang - Si-Yu-Ki
    4. Megasthenes - Indica
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Al-Masudi - Kitab-ul-Hind

    Kitab-ul-Hind (Book of India) is the famous work by Al-Biruni, an Iranian scholar who travelled to India in the 11th century. Al-Masudi was an Arab historian and geographer from the 10th century, known for his work 'Muruj al-dhahab' (The Meadows of Gold).

  3. The earliest reference of the use of magnetic compass in the Indian seas was by

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Marco Polo
    2. Ibn Battuta
    3. Sadruddin Muhammad "Aufi"
    4. Nicolo Conti
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Sadruddin Muhammad "Aufi"

    Sadruddin Muhammad "Aufi" was a Persian writer who lived in the early 13th century (arriving in India around 1228 AD). His work "Jawami ul-Hikayat wa Jawami ul-Rawayat" (Collection of Stories and Collection of Narratives) contains an anecdote that mentions the use of a magnetic compass by sailors navigating in the Indian Ocean, making it one of the earliest known references to its use in this region.

  4. Match the following texts with their authors and select the correct option: a) Haqaiq-i-Hindi b) Tahdhibul Akhlaq c) Kunzal Tijar d) Jawamiul Hikayat i) Ibn Miskawayh ii) Sadruddin Muhammad "Aufi" iii) Abdul Wahid Bilgrami iv) Bailaq al Qabayaki

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. a – iii b – i c – iv d – ii
    2. a – ii b – iv c – i d – iii
    3. a – iii b – i c – ii d – iv
    4. a – i b – ii c – iii d – iv
    Show answer

    Answer: A. a – iii b – i c – iv d – ii

    The correct match is as follows: a) Haqaiq-i-Hindi - iii) Abdul Wahid Bilgrami: This text by Abdul Wahid Bilgrami (16th century) explores the connections between Indian/Hindu concepts and Sufi terminology. b) Tahdhibul Akhlaq - i) Ibn Miskawayh: This is a renowned work on ethics by the Persian philosopher, historian, and physician Ibn Miskawayh (10th-11th century). c) Kunzal Tijar - iv) Bailaq al Qabayaki: This book, also known as Kitab Manfa'at al-Hayawan, by Bailaq al-Qabayaki (13th century), is a nautical manual which includes an early description of the magnetic compass. d) Jawamiul Hikayat - ii) Sadruddin Muhammad "Aufi": This is a vast collection of historical anecdotes and stories compiled by Muhammad 'Aufi (13th century), who lived in India during the Delhi Sultanate.

  5. Who is the author of "Tarikh-i-Firojshahi" ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. Shams-i-Siraj Afif
    2. Ziauddin Barni
    3. Khwaja Abdul Samad Isami
    4. Sirajuddin Ali Yazdi
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Shams-i-Siraj Afif

    Both Ziauddin Barani and Shams-i-Siraj Afif wrote historical chronicles titled "Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi". However, Ziauddin Barani's work is a general history of the Delhi Sultanate up to the early years of Firuz Shah Tughlaq's reign (around 1357-1360), whereas Shams-i-Siraj Afif's "Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi" is specifically and entirely dedicated to the reign of Firuz Shah Tughlaq (1351-1388). Given that the title refers to Firoz Shah, Afif's work is the comprehensive history of his reign under that title and is often the primary text referred to for details of his rule.

  6. Match the following: Authors Writings

    Asked in: PPSC CS Prelims 2013

    1. Minhaj al-Siraj Juz‐ 1. Malfuzat-i-Timuri jani 2. Fatwa-i-Ja‐
    2. Ziauddin Barani handari
    3. Isami 3. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri
    4. Amir Timur 4. Futuh-us Salatin Choose the correct code : A. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4 B. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4 C. A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1 D. A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Isami 3. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri

    - Minhaj al-Siraj Juzjani is known for his historical work Tabaqat-i-Nasiri, a general history of the Muslim world, including the Delhi Sultanate up to 1260, dedicated to Sultan Nasir-ud-din Mahmud of the Mamluk dynasty. - Ziauddin Barani was a chronicler during the reigns of Muhammad bin Tughluq and Firuz Shah Tughluq. His notable works include Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi (not listed) and Fatwa-i-Jahandari, a treatise on political theory and the duties of a Muslim ruler. - Isami was a 14th- century Indo-Persian historian who wrote Futuh-us Salatin, a verse epic detailing the history of Muslim rulers of India from the Ghaznavids to the Bahmani dynasty. - Amir Timur (Tamerlane) is associated with Malfuzat-i-Timuri, which is considered his autobiography or memoirs, recounting his life and campaigns.

  7. The earliest reference of ‘Magnetic Compass’ is found in

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2012

    1. Miftahul Fuzala
    2. Chachnama
    3. Ranazatu's Safar
    4. Jawamiul Hikayat
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Jawamiul Hikayat

  8. Of the following, which one was written by Ziauddin Barani ?

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2024

    1. Tarikh-i-Mubarak Shahi
    2. Fatawa-i-Jahandari
    3. Zain-ul-Akhbar
    4. Tarikh-i-Muhammadi
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Fatawa-i-Jahandari

    - Ziauddin Barani was a contemporary of Muhammad bin Tughluq and Firoz Shah Tughluq. - His writings provide valuable historical and political insights into the Tughluq dynasty.

  9. Which of the following is NOT correctly matched? (Books) (Writers)

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2019

    1. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri - Minhaj-us-Siraj-Juzjani
    2. Turikh-i-Firozshahi - Shams-i-Siruj-Alif
    3. Tughlaqnama - Ibn Battuta
    4. Humayunnama - Gulbadan Begam
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Tughlaqnama - Ibn Battuta

    Tughlaqnama is a historical masnavi (poem) written by the famous Indo-Persian poet Amir Khusrau. It details the rise to power of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. Ibn Battuta was a Moroccan traveler who visited India during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq and wrote his famous travelogue "Rihla", which contains detailed accounts of the Tughlaq period, but he did not write the "Tughlaqnama". The other pairs are correctly matched: Tabaqat-i-Nasiri by Minhaj-us-Siraj Juzjani, Tarikh-i-Firozshahi by Ziauddin Barani (and Shams-i Siraj Afif for a later part), and Humayunnama by Gulbadan Begum.

  10. Consider the following text and arrange them in chronological order: 1. Fatawa-i-Jahandari 2. Prithviraja-Raso 3. Kitab-ul-Hind 4. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2020

    1. 2, 3, 4, 1
    2. 3, 1, 2, 4
    3. 4, 3, 1, 2
    4. 3, 2, 4, 1
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 3, 2, 4, 1

    Let's arrange the texts by their approximate periods of composition or the era they primarily describe: 1. Kitab-ul-Hind by Al-Biruni: Completed around 1030 AD (early 11th century). 2. Prithviraja-Raso attributed to Chand Bardai: Deals with the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan III (late 12th century). While the final text might be later, the author was contemporary to Prithviraj. 3. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri by Minhaj-i- Siraj Juzjani: Completed around 1260 AD (mid-13th century). 4. Fatawa-i-Jahandari by Ziauddin Barani: Written during the reign of Firuz Shah Tughluq (mid-14th century). Arranging these by date gives the order: 3 (1030) -> 2 (late 12th/ early 13th) -> 4 (c. 1260) -> 1 (mid-14th).

Influence of Arabic Learning and Islamic Sciences on Literature

  1. Al-Biruni's Kitab-ul-Hind is written in which of the following language? (1) Persian (2) Arabic (3) Turkish (4) Urdu

    Asked in: Headmaster (Secondary School) 2018

    1. 1
    2. 2
    3. 3
    4. 4
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2

    This question is about the language of a significant historical account of India written by a foreign traveler during the medieval period. Al-Biruni was an important scholar who accompanied Mahmud of Ghazni.

  2. The famous literary work 'Kitabul - Hind' was written by:

    Asked in: Civil Judge 2018

    1. Alberuni
    2. Badayuni
    3. Zia – ud – din Barni
    4. Kaphi – khan
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alberuni

    The renowned literary work 'Kitabul-Hind' was authored by Alberuni, a Persian scholar who traveled to India in the 11th century alongside Mahmud of Ghazni. The book is a comprehensive treatise on the history, geography, culture, and sciences of India.

  3. In which language Ibnbatuta has written travelogue ‘Rihla’ ?

    Asked in: Executive Officer and Tax & Revenue Inspector Exam 2023

    1. Persian
    2. Arabic
    3. Turkish
    4. Uzbek
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Arabic

    Ibn Battuta's famous travelogue 'Rihla' detailing his journeys was written in the Arabic language.

  4. In which language Ibanbatuta wrote his travel account "Rehla" ?

    Asked in: Lab Assistant Higher Education (Group C) Exam 2023

    1. Persian
    2. Arabic
    3. Turkish
    4. Portuguese
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Arabic

    Ibn Battuta's travelogue, "Rehla," was written in Arabic.

Lexicography and Grammatical Works

  1. Desinamamala is a treatise written by

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2023

    1. Surdas
    2. Hemachandra
    3. Tholkappiyar
    4. Kumarapala
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Hemachandra

    Hemachandra (c. 1088–1172 CE) was a polymath and a prolific writer who contributed significantly to Jainism, philosophy, grammar, and literature in Sanskrit and Prakrit. 'Desinamamala' lists words of Desi origin (local or popular words not derived from Sanskrit) found in Prakrit dialects.

  2. The 13th Century text Lekhapaddhati gives us information on which one of the following topics?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 1 2022

    1. Art of writing
    2. Essay writing
    3. Legal document
    4. Epigraphic style
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Legal document

    Lekhapaddhati is a medieval Sanskrit and Prakrit text originating from Gujarat. It is a collection of model documents, including various types of legal deeds, administrative orders, land grants, agreements, and private letters. It served as a practical guide for drafting documents and provides valuable insights into the administrative, legal, and socio- economic conditions of the period.

Manuscript Production, Calligraphy, and Illustration

  1. Paper came to be used in India in the

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 63rd

    1. 12th century
    2. 13th century
    3. 14th century
    4. 15th century
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 13th century

    Paper technology and usage spread significantly in India during the Delhi Sultanate era, starting around the 13th century.

Sanskrit Literary Output and Commentaries

  1. Which one of the following pairs of author and literary work is correctly matched?

    Asked in: UPSC Geoscientist 2021

    1. Banabhatta : Ramacharita
    2. Kalhana : Rajatarangini
    3. Chand Bardai : Prithvirajavijaya
    4. Padmagupta : Harshacharita
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Kalhana : Rajatarangini

    Rajatarangini is considered one of the earliest examples of historical writing in India that attempted a systematic chronological account, although it includes mythological elements alongside historical events.

  2. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using codes given below this list: List-I (Author) List-II (Book)

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2024

    1. Sandhyaka-rananandi (i) Vikramankade-vacharita
    2. Bilhana (ii) Ramcharitra
    3. Hemchandra (iii) Prithbirajaraso
    4. Chand Bardai (iv) Kumrapala-charita Codes : A B C D (1) (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (2) (iv) (iii) (ii) (i) (3) (ii) (i) (iv) (iii) (4) (iii) (iv) (ii) (i) A. (1) B. (2) C. (3) D. (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Hemchandra (iii) Prithbirajaraso

    - Sandhyakaranandi wrote Ramcharitra, a historical Kavya about the Pala king Ramapala, using a double meaning (slesha) to also refer to the epic Ramayana. - Bilhana was a Kashmiri poet who wrote Vikramankadevacharita, a biographical epic about the Kalyani Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI. - Hemchandra was a Jain scholar who wrote Kumarpalacharita, a biography of the Chaulukya king Kumarapala of Gujarat. - Chand Bardai was a court poet of Prithviraj Chauhan and is credited with writing Prithvirajaraso, an epic poem about the life of Prithviraj Chauhan.

  3. Which one of the following texts is a commentary written by Chakrapanidatta (11 Century CE from Bengal) on the Sushrut Samhita ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 1 2024

    1. Sabdachandrika
    2. Bhanumati
    3. Nitiratnakara
    4. Lohasarvasava
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Bhanumati

    - Chakrapanidatta was an 11th-century physician from Bengal. - He wrote commentaries on key Ayurvedic texts. - His commentary on Sushruta Samhita is called Bhanumati. - His commentary on Charaka Samhita is called Ayur-veda-dipika.

  4. Jaisingh Suri was author of:

    Asked in: RPSC RAS Prelims 2007

    1. Hammirmardan
    2. Hammir Mahakavya
    3. Hammir Math
    4. Hammir Raso
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Hammirmardan

    Jaisingh Suri (or Jayasimha Suri) was a Jain scholar who wrote the historical play "Hammiramardana" (Suppression of Hammira). This work primarily focuses on the invasion of Gujarat by Alauddin Khilji and includes references to Hammir of Ranthambore sheltering the refugees from the invasion.

  5. Who was the author of 'Prithviraj Vijaya'?

    Asked in: School Lecturer (Sanskrit Edu.) 2022 5 2022

    1. Chand Bardai
    2. Jayanak
    3. Nayanchand Suri
    4. Malik Mohammad Jayasi
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Jayanak

    'Prithviraj Vijaya' is an epic poem in Sanskrit that eulogizes the life and reign of Prithviraj Chauhan III. It was composed by Jayanak, a Kashmiri poet and scholar patronized by Prithviraj.

  6. The drama 'Lalitvigraharaj' was written by

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Sanskrit Edu.) Exam 2018 2 2018

    1. Hemchandra Suri
    2. Rajeshkhar
    3. Somendra
    4. Chand Bardai
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Somendra

    The drama 'Lalitvigraharaj' was written by Somendra (also known as Somadeva). It is a significant Sanskrit play from the medieval period, known for its poetic quality and dramatic structure.

Translations and Adaptations Between Sanskrit and Persian

  1. Who among the following had translated Chintamani Bhatt's Sanskrit text 'Suka Saptati' in Persian and gave it the title 'Tutinama'?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2022

    1. Khwaza Ziya-uddin Nakhshabi
    2. Abdur Razzak
    3. Shihabuddin-al-Umari
    4. Amir Khusro
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Khwaza Ziya-uddin Nakhshabi

    This question relates to the cultural and literary exchanges between Sanskrit and Persian traditions during the medieval period in India.