All questions of The Delhi Sultanate for UPSC CSE Exam

Alai darwaza is a correct answer.

Ala-ud-din Khalji

Ala-ud-din Khalji was the name of the Delhi Sultan who belongs to credit for being the first sultan of Delhi to lay the foundation of a permanent standing army. He was the second ruler of the Khalji dynasty and ruled from 1296 to 1316.

Significance of Permanent Standing Army

Ala-ud-din Khalji realized the importance of a permanent standing army for the stability and security of his kingdom. He understood that a standing army could be quickly mobilized in case of any external or internal threats to the kingdom. With the help of his able general Malik Kafur, he reorganized and strengthened the army.

Composition of the Army

The standing army of Ala-ud-din Khalji was composed of infantry, cavalry, and elephants. The cavalry was the backbone of the army, and the soldiers were well-armed with swords, spears, and bows. The elephants were used for transportation and as a means of attack during battles.

Reforms in Administration

Apart from the establishment of a permanent standing army, Ala-ud-din Khalji also introduced several administrative reforms. He centralized the administration and divided the kingdom into provinces, each under the control of a governor. He also introduced a system of spies to keep a check on the activities of his nobles.

Importance of Ala-ud-din Khalji's Reign

The reign of Ala-ud-din Khalji was significant in the history of India. He was a strong and able ruler who brought stability and prosperity to the kingdom. His reforms in the army and administration laid the foundation for a strong and centralized kingdom. He was also a patron of art and literature, and several monuments were built during his reign, including the famous Qutub Minar in Delhi.

Minhaj-ud-din

Minhaj-ud-din, also known as Minhaj-i-Siraj, was the author of the Tabaqat-i-Nasiri. The Tabaqat-i-Nasiri is a valuable historical work that covers the history of India from the Ghaznavid period to the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud of Delhi. Here are some key points about Minhaj-ud-din and his work:

- Background: Minhaj-ud-din was a 13th-century Persian historian who served as the chief qazi (judge) of Delhi during the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud. He was known for his expertise in Islamic law and history.

- Tabaqat-i-Nasiri: The Tabaqat-i-Nasiri is considered one of the most important historical works on medieval India. It provides detailed accounts of the rulers, courtiers, and events of the time, offering valuable insights into the political and social landscape of the period.

- Scope: The Tabaqat-i-Nasiri covers a wide range of topics, including the Ghaznavid and Ghurid dynasties, the Delhi Sultanate, and the Mongol invasions of India. It is a comprehensive work that offers a detailed look at the history of the region during Minhaj-ud-din's lifetime.

- Importance: Minhaj-ud-din's work is highly regarded for its accuracy and detail, making it a valuable source for historians studying medieval India. The Tabaqat-i-Nasiri provides important insights into the political, social, and cultural developments of the time.

In conclusion, Minhaj-ud-din, the author of the Tabaqat-i-Nasiri, was a prominent historian of medieval India whose work continues to be studied and appreciated for its historical significance.

Squinch: An Architectural Form
Squinch is an important architectural feature, primarily used in the construction of domes and arches in various structures, particularly in Islamic and Byzantine architecture. Here’s a detailed overview:
Definition of Squinch
- A squinch is a structural element that allows for the transition between a square space and a dome or a circular base.
- It consists usually of a series of corbelled arches or brackets that extend from the corners of a square room to support the dome above.
Architectural Significance
- Squinches are crucial in enabling the construction of a dome over a square room, which was a prevalent architectural technique in many historical buildings.
- They distribute the weight of the dome, providing stability and allowing for larger and more expansive interior spaces.
Historical Context
- The use of squinches can be traced back to ancient architecture, with significant applications in the construction of mosques and churches.
- Notable examples include the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and many mosques in the Middle East, showcasing the aesthetic and structural advantages of squinches.
Visual Appeal
- Squinches often feature intricate designs and decorative elements, enhancing the visual impact of the structures they support.
- Their curved forms create a harmonious transition from the square base to the dome, contributing to the overall beauty of the architectural composition.
In summary, the squinch is not just a functional element but also an integral part of the artistic expression in architecture, making it a fundamental concept in the study of architectural forms.

Introduction:
The Sultanate period in India began with the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate in 1206 CE by Qutub-ud-din Aibak. However, it was Firuz Tughlaq who initiated the policy of associating Indian Muslims with administration.

Firuz Tughlaq:
- Firuz Tughlaq ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1351 to 1388 CE.
- He was the third ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty.
- Firuz Tughlaq was known for his administrative reforms and policies.
- He initiated the policy of associating Indian Muslims with administration.
- He appointed Hindus to high positions in the administration and military.
- Firuz Tughlaq also started the practice of granting lands to the scholars and Sufis.

Policy of associating Indian Muslims with administration:
- Before Firuz Tughlaq, the administration was dominated by the Turks and Afghans who had come to India as conquerors.
- Firuz Tughlaq realized that the local Muslims who had converted to Islam were being ignored in the administration.
- He started appointing Indian Muslims to high positions in the administration.
- This policy helped in creating a sense of belonging among the Indian Muslims and also helped in integrating them into the mainstream society.

Impact of the policy:
- The policy of associating Indian Muslims with administration helped in creating a sense of unity among the diverse communities of India.
- It also helped in creating a new class of Indian Muslims who were loyal to the Sultan and the Delhi Sultanate.
- The policy also helped in reducing the influence of the Turkish and Afghan nobles who were often at loggerheads with each other.

Conclusion:
Firuz Tughlaq's policy of associating Indian Muslims with administration was a significant step towards creating a sense of unity among the diverse communities of India. The policy helped in integrating the Indian Muslims into the mainstream society and reducing the influence of the Turkish and Afghan nobles.

A

Historical Context
The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, located in Delhi, is recognized as one of the earliest mosques constructed in India. Its significance lies in its foundation being laid on the site of a Jain temple, which exemplifies the historical transition during the period of Islamic conquests in India.
Architectural Features
- The mosque was built in 1193 by Qutb al-Din Aibak, marking the establishment of Muslim rule in India.
- It incorporates elements of Indo-Islamic architecture, showcasing intricate carvings and the use of recycled materials from the temple.
Significance of Conversion
- The conversion of the Jain temple into a mosque symbolizes the cultural and religious transformations that occurred in India during the medieval period.
- This act was part of a broader trend where many temples were repurposed as mosques, reflecting the dominance of Islamic architecture and the changing socio-political landscape.
Archaeological Findings
- Archaeological excavations have revealed remnants of the Jain temple within the mosque structure, affirming its origins.
- The presence of inscriptions and architectural elements from the Jain tradition highlights the syncretic nature of the site.
Conclusion
In summary, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque stands as a testament to the complex history of religious interactions in India. Its establishment on the site of a Jain temple not only marks it as the earliest known mosque in India but also encapsulates the rich tapestry of cultural exchanges that shaped the subcontinent's history.

Tughlaq architecture and Sloping walls

Tughlaq architecture is a significant architectural style that was developed during the Tughlaq dynasty in India. The Tughlaq dynasty was established by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in 1320, and it lasted until 1412. The Tughlaq dynasty was known for its grand architectural designs and innovative construction techniques.

One of the most striking features of Tughlaq architecture was sloping walls or batter. The sloping walls of Tughlaq buildings gave them a unique look and also served a functional purpose. The sloping walls helped to distribute the weight of the building more evenly and also made the structure more stable. The sloping walls were also designed to make the building more resistant to earthquakes.

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and Firuz Tughlaq

While sloping walls were a significant feature of Tughlaq architecture, they were absent in the buildings of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and Firuz Tughlaq. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was the second ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, and he ruled from 1325 to 1351. He was known for his eccentricities and his unsuccessful attempts to shift the capital of the empire from Delhi to Daulatabad.

Firuz Tughlaq was the last ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, and he ruled from 1351 to 1388. Firuz Tughlaq was known for his administrative reforms and his patronage of the arts, but his architectural designs did not include sloping walls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sloping walls were a significant feature of Tughlaq architecture, and they were absent in the buildings of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and Firuz Tughlaq. The sloping walls of Tughlaq buildings gave them a unique look and also served a functional purpose, making the structure more stable and earthquake-resistant.

Nagara Style Architecture:

The tall curved spiral roof and the mandapam (ante-room) were features of the Nagara style of architecture. It is a style of architecture that is typical of North India, particularly in the regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar.

Features of Nagara Style Architecture:

1. Shikhara: The shikhara or the tower is the most prominent feature of Nagara style architecture. It is a tall and curvaceous structure that is often adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

2. Mandapa: The mandapa is an ante-room that is often placed in front of a temple. It is a pillared hall that is used for various religious and cultural activities.

3. Garbhagriha: The garbhagriha or the sanctum sanctorum is the innermost chamber of the temple where the main deity is placed.

4. Amalaka: The amalaka is a disk-shaped structure that is placed on top of the shikhara. It is often decorated with carvings and sculptures.

5. Kalasha: The kalasha is a pot-shaped structure that is placed on top of the amalaka. It is considered to be a symbol of prosperity and abundance.

6. Pradakshina Patha: The pradakshina patha is a circumambulatory path that is present around the garbhagriha. It is used for circumambulating the main deity during the worship.

Conclusion:

Thus, the Nagara style of architecture is a unique and beautiful form of architecture that is known for its tall, curvaceous towers and intricate carvings and sculptures. It is a style that is deeply rooted in Indian culture and tradition and continues to inspire architects and designers even today.

¶¶Chahalgani refers to the group of forty important nobles set up by Iltutmish.They were very powerful and were well-known to the Sultan.But after the period of Iltutmish, the power of the Chalgans was put down by Balban.

¶¶ so the option a is correct.

Author who translated Bhagavat Gita into Bengali

Author: Maladhar Vasu

Explanation: Maladhar Vasu was a 19th century Bengali author and translator who is best known for his translation of the Bhagavat Gita into Bengali. His translation, which was published in 1887, is considered one of the most accurate and faithful translations of the text in the Bengali language. Maladhar Vasu was also a prolific writer in his own right, having authored several books and essays on a variety of subjects, including religion, philosophy, and literature.

Other options:
a) Krithivas - Krithivas Ojha was a 15th century poet and scholar who is best known for his work on the Ramayana. He did not translate the Bhagavat Gita into Bengali.

b) Kavindra - There is no known author by the name of Kavindra who translated the Bhagavat Gita into Bengali.

d) Srikar Nandi - There is no known author by the name of Srikar Nandi who translated the Bhagavat Gita into Bengali.

Mitakshara was a famous Hindu school of law. It is associated with Vijnaneshwara, a renowned scholar of law and the author of Mitakshara. Let's understand this in detail.

Introduction to Mitakshara
Mitakshara is a commentary on the Yajnavalkya Smriti, which is one of the important texts of Hindu law. Mitakshara was written by Vijnaneshwara in the 12th century AD. It is considered as one of the most authoritative commentaries on Hindu law.

Vijnaneshwara
Vijnaneshwara was a Hindu scholar who lived in the 12th century AD. He was born in South India and served as a minister in the court of the Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI. Vijnaneshwara was a great scholar of law and wrote Mitakshara, which became one of the most important commentaries on Hindu law.

Mitakshara School of Law
The Mitakshara School of Law is one of the six schools of Hindu law in India. It is prevalent in North India, especially in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan. Mitakshara School of Law is based on the principle of joint family property. According to this school, ancestral property is inherited by all the sons equally. The property is not divided but is held jointly by all the members of the family. The share of each member is not fixed and can vary depending on various factors such as age, gender, and conduct.

Conclusion
Thus, Mitakshara was a famous Hindu school of law associated with Vijnaneshwara. Mitakshara is a commentary on the Yajnavalkya Smriti and is considered as one of the most authoritative commentaries on Hindu law. The Mitakshara School of Law is based on the principle of joint family property and is prevalent in North India.

Wrong

The Hindu Work: Khaliq Bari
The Khaliq Bari is a significant literary work in the history of Hindu literature, often attributed to the renowned poet and scholar Amir Khusrau. Understanding the context and contributions of Amir Khusrau is essential to appreciate this attribution.
Who is Amir Khusrau?
- Amir Khusrau (1253-1325) was a prominent Sufi poet, musician, and scholar in the Indian subcontinent.
- He is often referred to as the "father of Urdu literature" and is credited with enriching both Persian and Hindi literature.
Significance of Khaliq Bari
- Khaliq Bari is primarily known for its poetic expressions and philosophical insights.
- The work reflects Khusrau's deep understanding of spirituality, love, and the human condition.
Literary Contributions
- Khusrau's writings often blend elements of Persian, Arabic, and local Indian languages, showcasing the cultural syncretism of his time.
- His use of metaphors and imagery in Khaliq Bari illustrates his mastery over language and his ability to convey profound truths.
Influence on Later Literature
- The impact of Khaliq Bari extends beyond its time, influencing subsequent poets and writers in the subcontinent.
- Khusrau's work laid the groundwork for future literary movements, making him a pivotal figure in South Asian literary history.
Conclusion
In summary, the attribution of Khaliq Bari to Amir Khusrau is justified due to his unparalleled contributions to literature and the unique blend of cultural influences in his work. His legacy continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of Khaliq Bari in the broader context of Indian literature.

Tughlaq architecture was a distinctive style of architecture that flourished during the Tughlaq dynasty in India. This architecture was characterized by a unique blend of Islamic, Indian, and Persian architectural styles. One of the significant features of Tughlaq architecture was the deliberate attempt to combine the principles of the arch and the lintel and beam in their buildings.

Firuz Tughlaq was one of the most prominent rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty, and he was known for his architectural prowess. The unique combination of the arch and the lintel and beam can be found in a marked manner in the buildings of Firuz Tughlaq.

Below are some of the examples of Tughlaq architecture that showcase this unique feature:

1. Tughlaqabad Fort: The Tughlaqabad Fort was built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, but it was completed by Firuz Tughlaq. The fort is an excellent example of Tughlaq architecture, and it showcases the unique combination of the arch and the lintel and beam.

2. Adilabad Fort: The Adilabad Fort was built by Muhammad Tughlaq, and it is another example of Tughlaq architecture. The fort features the unique combination of the arch and the lintel and beam.

3. Hauz Khas: Hauz Khas is a complex of buildings that was built during the reign of Firuz Tughlaq. The complex showcases the unique blend of Islamic, Indian, and Persian architectural styles, and it features the unique combination of the arch and the lintel and beam.

In conclusion, the deliberate attempt to combine the principles of the arch and the lintel and beam in their buildings was a significant feature of Tughlaq architecture. This unique feature can be found in a marked manner in the buildings of Firuz Tughlaq. The Tughlaqabad Fort, Adilabad Fort, and Hauz Khas are some of the examples of Tughlaq architecture that showcase this unique feature.

(A)

D

Introduction to Tughlaq Architecture
The Tughlaq dynasty, ruling from the 14th to the 16th century, is renowned for its distinct architectural styles that mark significant shifts in Indian architecture. One of the notable rulers, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, made a remarkable contribution to this transformation.
Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq's Tomb
- Significance: The tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, located in Delhi, is a pivotal example of the architectural evolution during this period.
- Elevated Platform: The tomb is constructed on an elevated platform, which was a departure from previous architectural norms, enhancing its prominence and visibility.
- Marble Dome: The structure is topped with a striking marble dome, symbolizing a shift towards more grandiose and visually impactful designs.
Architectural Innovations
- Skyline Impact: The use of a dome not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the skyline of the area, making it a landmark.
- Influence on Future Architecture: This style influenced later Mughal architecture, paving the way for iconic structures like the Taj Mahal.
Conclusion
In summary, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq's tomb represents a significant architectural advancement, marked by its elevated platform and marble dome. This innovation highlights the Tughlaq dynasty's role in shaping the architectural landscape of India, making it a key historical site worthy of recognition and study.

Introduction:
With the arrival of the Turks in India, there was a significant influence on architecture, leading to the introduction of new elements in construction.

Arch:
- The use of arches became prevalent in Indian architecture with the influence of Turkish architectural styles.
- Arches not only added structural strength but also provided aesthetic appeal to the buildings.

Minaret:
- Minarets, tall slender towers typically found adjacent to mosques, were introduced on a large scale with the coming of the Turks.
- These minarets served as visual markers for mosques and were used for the call to prayer.

Dome:
- Domes, hemispherical structures that often crown buildings, also became prominent in Indian architecture due to Turkish influence.
- Domes were used to cover large interior spaces and were a symbol of grandeur and power.

Impact of Turkish Influence:
- The introduction of arches, minarets, and domes transformed the architectural landscape of India.
- These elements not only added to the beauty of buildings but also showcased the technological advancements in construction techniques.
- The fusion of Turkish and Indian architectural styles created a unique blend that continues to influence architecture in the region.
In conclusion, the arrival of the Turks in India brought about a significant change in architecture, with the widespread use of arches, minarets, and domes. These elements not only added to the structural integrity of buildings but also contributed to the visual appeal and grandeur of Indian architecture.

The correct answer is option 'C' - I, II, III.

Explanation:
I. The Hindu and Muslim upper classes did not have much social intercourse between them in the Sultanate period.
- In the Sultanate period, which lasted from the 13th to the 16th century, there was a significant divide between the Hindu and Muslim upper classes.
- The ruling Muslim elite considered themselves superior to the Hindu upper classes, and as a result, there was limited social interaction between the two groups.
- The Muslim elites held positions of power and authority in the Sultanate, while the Hindu upper classes were often marginalized and excluded from political power.
- This lack of social intercourse between the two groups was a reflection of the social and political divide that existed during this period.

II. The Hindu upper castes applied to the Muslims the restrictions they applied to the Shudras.
- The Hindu caste system divided society into hierarchical groups, with the Brahmins at the top and the Shudras at the bottom.
- The upper castes, including the Brahmins and Kshatriyas, enjoyed higher social status and privileges compared to the lower castes.
- During the Sultanate period, some of the upper castes applied the same restrictions they applied to the Shudras to the Muslims.
- This was done in an attempt to maintain their social superiority and to differentiate themselves from the ruling Muslim elite.
- However, it is important to note that not all Hindu upper castes applied these restrictions to Muslims, and there were variations in social interactions between different regions and communities.

III. Caste restrictions had not closed social intercourse between the Muslims and the upper caste Hindus and the Shudras.
- Despite the social divide and restrictions imposed by the Hindu upper castes, social intercourse between Muslims and upper caste Hindus and Shudras was not completely closed during the Sultanate period.
- There were instances of intermarriage and social interaction between the two communities, particularly in regions where the divide was not as rigid.
- Trade and commerce also facilitated some level of social interaction between Muslims and upper caste Hindus and Shudras.
- It is important to recognize that social interactions were not uniform across the Sultanate period and varied based on regional and local dynamics.

In conclusion, during the Sultanate period, there was limited social intercourse between the Hindu and Muslim upper classes. The Hindu upper castes did apply some restrictions to Muslims, similar to those applied to the Shudras, but this was not universal. Despite these restrictions, social intercourse between Muslims and upper caste Hindus and Shudras was not completely closed, with instances of intermarriage and trade facilitating some level of interaction.

Answer is d here

Jizaya in Islamic history
Jizaya was a religious tax imposed on non-Muslims, particularly Hindus, in Islamic societies. Here are the key points about jizaya:

Payment in lieu of military services: Jizaya was a tax paid by non-Muslims as a substitute for military service. This tax was often seen as a way for non-Muslims to be exempt from serving in the military.

Payment by specific groups: Certain groups of non-Muslims, such as money-changers, cloth dealers, landowners, merchants, and physicians, were required to pay the maximum amount of jizaya. This tax was often based on the profession and income of the individual.

Graduated scale according to means: Jizaya was payable on a graduated scale according to the means of the individual. This meant that wealthier individuals paid a higher amount of tax compared to those with lower incomes.

Exemptions: Women, children, and Brahmanas were often exempted from paying jizaya. This exemption was based on specific criteria set by Islamic rulers.
Therefore, all the statements about jizaya mentioned in the options - payment in lieu of military services, payment by specific groups, graduated scale according to means, and exemptions for certain individuals - are correct.

Majlis-i-Am or Majlis-i-Kahlawat were important councils during the Sultanate period in India.

Meaning of Majlis-i-Am/Majlis-i-Kahlawat:
Majlis-i-Am means the council of the common people, while Majlis-i-Kahlawat refers to the council of nobles.

Purpose of Majlis-i-Am/Majlis-i-Kahlawat:
The purpose of these councils was to ensure good governance and effective administration of the state.

Functions of Majlis-i-Am/Majlis-i-Kahlawat:
1. Advice to the Sultan: Both Majlis-i-Am and Majlis-i-Kahlawat were the advisory bodies to the Sultan. They advised the Sultan on important matters of the state.

2. Administration: Majlis-i-Am was responsible for the administration of the state. They were in charge of the accounts and receipts.

3. Law and Order: Majlis-i-Kahlawat was responsible for maintaining law and order in the state. They were the custodian of peace and order.

4. Judicial Functions: The councils had the power to settle disputes and make decisions on legal matters.

Conclusion:
In a nutshell, Majlis-i-Am and Majlis-i-Kahlawat were important councils during the Sultanate period. They played a crucial role in the governance of the state, advised the Sultan on important matters, and ensured law and order in the state.

Nature of Muslim State in India during Sultanate Period

During the Sultanate period in India (1206-1526), a number of Muslim dynasties ruled India, including the Delhi Sultanate, the Khilji Dynasty, the Tughlaq Dynasty, and the Lodi Dynasty. The nature of the Muslim state in India during this period can be described in the following ways:

Militaristic and Aristocratic

- The Muslim rulers of India during the Sultanate period were primarily military men, who had come to India as conquerors. They were often referred to as sultans, which means "chiefs" or "commanders" in Arabic.
- The Muslim state in India was militaristic in nature, with the sultan and his army at the center of power. The sultan was the ultimate authority in the state, and his word was law.
- The Muslim state was also aristocratic, with the sultan and his courtiers living in luxury and surrounded by wealth and privilege. The sultan's court was a place of great pomp and ceremony, with elaborate rituals and ceremonies.

Notion of Privileges and Power

- The Muslim state in India was not based on the idea of equality, but on the notion of privileges and power. The sultan and his courtiers enjoyed many privileges and exemptions from the law that were not available to ordinary people.
- The Muslim state was also characterized by a hierarchical social order, in which people were ranked according to their class, occupation, and religion. At the top of the social hierarchy were the Muslims, who enjoyed the greatest privileges and power, while at the bottom were the low-caste Hindus and other marginalized groups.

Tacit Sharing of Power

- Despite the hierarchical nature of the Muslim state in India, there was some degree of tacit sharing of power between the rural Hindu aristocracy and the city-based administrators. The sultan relied on the support of the local elites to maintain his authority, and often appointed Hindu officials to important positions in the state.
- However, the relationship between the Muslim rulers and the Hindu elites was often uneasy, and there were frequent conflicts and power struggles between the two groups.

Overall, the nature of the Muslim state in India during the Sultanate period was complex and multifaceted, characterized by a mixture of militarism, aristocracy, hierarchy, and power struggles.

Notably, the Turks, who invaded India during the 12th century, brought with them various instruments that were later assimilated into Indian classical music. Let's understand the instruments brought by the Turks and the one that was not brought.

Instruments brought by the Turks to India:

1. Rabab: Rabab is a stringed instrument that originated in Afghanistan. It was brought to India by the Turks during their invasion. Later, Rabab underwent a transformation and gave rise to another instrument called Sarod.

2. Sarangi: Sarangi is a bowed instrument that is popularly used in Indian classical music. It is believed to have originated in Central Asia and was brought to India by the Turks.

3. Sitar: Sitar is a plucked stringed instrument that is commonly used in Indian classical music. It is believed to have been derived from the Persian instrument called Seh-tar. The Turks introduced this instrument to India, and it underwent several modifications before taking its present form.

4. Tabla: Tabla is a percussion instrument that consists of two drums - the smaller one is called the Dayan or Tabla and the larger one is called the Bayan. The Turks brought this instrument to India, and it became an integral part of Indian classical music.

Instruments not brought by the Turks to India:

1. Veena: Veena is a plucked stringed instrument that is native to India. It has been depicted in ancient Indian sculptures and paintings, and its history can be traced back to the Vedic period. Hence, it was not brought by the Turks to India.

In conclusion, the Turks brought several instruments like Rabab, Sarangi, Sitar, and Tabla to India, which enriched the Indian classical music. However, the Veena is a native Indian instrument and was not brought by the Turks.

Introduction to Allasani Peddana
Allasani Peddana, a celebrated poet of the 16th century, is often regarded as one of the greatest poets in Telugu literature. His contributions were particularly significant during the reign of the Vijayanagar Empire.
Vijayanagar Empire
- The Vijayanagar Empire, established in the 14th century, was a prominent South Indian kingdom known for its patronage of arts and literature.
- The empire's rulers, particularly Krishnadevaraya, were great admirers of literature and encouraged poets and scholars.
- Peddana flourished in this environment, gaining recognition as a poet in the royal court.
Peddana's Contributions
- Peddana is best known for his epic poem "Manucharitam," which reflects the rich cultural heritage of the time and showcases his mastery of the Telugu language.
- His works often combined elements of mythology, philosophy, and moral lessons, making them not only artistic but also educational.
Historical Context
- The Vijayanagar Empire was a melting pot of various cultures, and Peddana's works encapsulate the spirit of this diversity.
- The support from the empire's rulers allowed for a flourishing of literature, art, and architecture, making it a golden age for Telugu literature.
Conclusion
In summary, Allasani Peddana belonged to the Vijayanagar Empire, where he made significant contributions to Telugu poetry and literature. His works remain a testament to the rich cultural legacy of the empire, affirming the importance of the kingdom in shaping literary traditions in South India.

Adhai din ka Jhonpra at Ajmer is the architectural work that was formerly a monastery.

Explanation:

- Adhai din ka Jhonpra is a mosque located in Ajmer, Rajasthan, India. It is one of the oldest mosques in India and holds historical significance.
- The name "Adhai din ka Jhonpra" translates to "shed of two and a half days" in English. This name is derived from the legend that the mosque was constructed in just two and a half days.
- The mosque was originally a Sanskrit college and a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It was believed to have been built in the 12th century during the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan.
- However, in the year 1198, the mosque was destroyed by Mohammad Ghori, a Turkish ruler. The mosque was then rebuilt using the remnants of the Hindu temple.
- The architecture of Adhai din ka Jhonpra reflects a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. The entrance of the mosque is adorned with intricate carvings and Quranic inscriptions.
- The main prayer hall of the mosque is supported by a series of pillars with beautiful arches. The walls of the mosque feature delicate screens with geometric patterns.
- The mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca, is placed in the central part of the mosque. It is decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions.
- Adhai din ka Jhonpra is known for its unique architectural style and historical significance. It attracts visitors from all over the world who are interested in exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of India.
- Today, the mosque is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and is open for visitors to explore and appreciate its architectural beauty.

In conclusion, Adhai din ka Jhonpra at Ajmer was originally a monastery but was later transformed into a mosque with a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

Answer:



The Atala Devi masjid and the Lal-Darwaza mosque are two famous mosques situated in the city of Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh. These two historical monuments were built by Sharqi rulers who ruled Jaunpur from 1394 to 1479. The Sharqi dynasty was established by Malik Sarwar, who was a governor of Jaunpur under the Tughlaq dynasty. During the Sharqi period, Jaunpur became an important center of Islamic culture, art, and learning. The Sharqis built many mosques, tombs, palaces, and other architectural structures in and around Jaunpur. Among them, the Atala Devi masjid and the Lal-Darwaza mosque are the most famous ones.

Atala Devi Masjid:


The Atala Devi masjid is a beautiful mosque built by Sultan Ibrahim Sharqi in 1408. The mosque is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture and is considered one of the most magnificent structures of Jaunpur. The mosque is named after Atala Devi, the wife of Sultan Ibrahim Sharqi. The mosque is built on a high platform and has three domes. The central dome is the largest one, and the other two are relatively smaller. The mosque has beautiful calligraphy and intricate designs on its walls. The mosque also has a large courtyard and a prayer hall.

Lal-Darwaza Mosque:


The Lal-Darwaza mosque is another beautiful mosque built by the Sharqis in Jaunpur. The mosque was built by Sultan Mahmud Sharqi in 1450. The mosque was named after the red sandstone gate (Lal-Darwaza) that was used to enter the mosque. The mosque has a large prayer hall with beautiful arches and pillars. The mosque also has a beautiful courtyard and a water tank. The mosque has intricate designs and calligraphy on its walls, which adds to its beauty.

Conclusion:


The Sharqi dynasty played an important role in the development of Islamic art and architecture in India. The Atala Devi masjid and the Lal-Darwaza mosque are two beautiful structures that represent the rich cultural heritage of India. These two mosques are not only important religious places but also serve as a major tourist attraction in Jaunpur.

Answer:

Gujarat was a seat of Hindu craftsmanship.

Explanation:

Hindu craftsmen were known for their skills in creating exquisite works of art. The province of Gujarat was one of the most important centers of Hindu craftsmanship in India. The craftsmen of Gujarat were known for their intricate metalwork, textile production, and wood carving. They created beautiful pieces of art that were highly valued and sought after.

The craftsmen of Gujarat were skilled in many different techniques. They were experts in metalwork, and they created beautiful pieces using gold, silver, and copper. They were also skilled in textile production, and they created intricate designs and patterns on fabrics such as silk and cotton. The craftsmen of Gujarat were also known for their wood carving, and they created beautiful pieces of furniture, doors, and windows.

The art of Hindu craftsmanship in Gujarat was influenced by many different factors. The craftsmen were influenced by the religion and culture of the region, as well as by the natural environment. They used local materials such as wood, cotton, and silk to create their works of art. They were also influenced by the trade routes that passed through the region, and they incorporated elements from other cultures into their work.

In conclusion, Gujarat was a seat of Hindu craftsmanship. The craftsmen of Gujarat were known for their skills in metalwork, textile production, and wood carving. They created beautiful pieces of art that were highly valued and sought after. The art of Hindu craftsmanship in Gujarat was influenced by many different factors, including religion, culture, and the natural environment.

Understanding the Masnavi Form
The masnavi is a poetic form consisting of rhyming couplets, commonly used in Persian literature. This structure allows for a narrative style that is particularly effective for storytelling and philosophical discourse.
Amir Khusrau's Contribution
- Amir Khusrau (1253-1325) is renowned for his significant contributions to Persian literature, particularly in the masnavi form.
- He is often referred to as the "father of Urdu literature" and is celebrated for blending Persian and Indian cultural elements in his works.
- Khusrau's masnavis, such as "Tuhfat-ul-Hind" and "Nuh Sipihr," showcase his mastery of this poetic form, using intricate rhyme and meter.
Comparison with Other Options
- Zai Nakshabi: While he contributed to Persian literature, he is not as prominent or widely recognized for the masnavi form as Khusrau.
- Malik Muhammad Jaisi: Best known for his epic poem "Padmavat," Jaisi primarily wrote in the narrative style but did not focus on the masnavi as a form.
- None of These: This option is incorrect since Khusrau is indeed a significant figure in Persian masnavi literature.
Conclusion
In summary, Amir Khusrau stands out as the best-known poet for the Persian form of masnavi, effectively integrating cultural narratives through his distinctive poetic style. His works have left an enduring legacy in both Persian and Urdu literature, demonstrating the versatility and depth of the masnavi form.