_____ wrote Ain-i-Akbari.a)Abul Fazlb)Maratha Rajputsc)Ahom Saidd)Kaya...
Abul Fazl
Abul Fazl, a prominent Persian historian and statesman, wrote the Ain-i-Akbari. It is a detailed historical document that provides a comprehensive account of the reign of Emperor Akbar, the third Mughal emperor of India. The Ain-i-Akbari is a part of the larger work called Akbarnama, which was written in Persian and completed in 1590.
Background
Abul Fazl served as the court historian and chief minister of Akbar's empire. He was a close confidant of the emperor and played a key role in the administration of the Mughal Empire. Abul Fazl was not only a historian but also a scholar, poet, and philosopher. He was well-versed in various fields of knowledge, including astronomy, mathematics, and philosophy.
Contents of Ain-i-Akbari
The Ain-i-Akbari is divided into five books, also known as "daftars." Each book focuses on a different aspect of Akbar's reign:
- Daftar I: This book provides a detailed account of the administrative structure of the Mughal Empire, including the organization of the imperial court, revenue system, and military administration.
- Daftar II: It describes the provinces, their geographical boundaries, and the revenue collected from each province.
- Daftar III: This book discusses the imperial household, including the emperor's daily routine, the harem, and the ranks and responsibilities of the court officials.
- Daftar IV: It focuses on the imperial army, including its organization, ranks, and military tactics.
- Daftar V: This book covers various aspects of the social, cultural, and economic life of the Mughal Empire, including agriculture, trade, and religion.
Significance of Ain-i-Akbari
The Ain-i-Akbari is considered a valuable historical source as it provides a detailed and systematic account of the Mughal administrative system and the socio-economic conditions of Akbar's time. It offers insights into the policies and governance of the Mughal Empire and helps in understanding the cultural and social fabric of the period.
The work is also significant because it reflects Akbar's emphasis on religious tolerance and his efforts to create a syncretic culture. Abul Fazl's writings portray Akbar as a just and enlightened ruler who respected all religions and promoted a policy of religious harmony.
The Ain-i-Akbari remains an important resource for historians studying the Mughal Empire and provides valuable information about the society, economy, and administration of that era.