BHIC 133
HISTORY OF INDIA FROM C. 1206-1707
IGNOU BHIC 133 Solved Free Assignment
BHIC 133 Solved Free Assignment July 2024 & January 2025
Assignment – I
Q 1. Discuss the importance of political chronicles as historical accounts for medieval period.
Ans. Political chronicles play a vital role in understanding the history of the medieval period.
These chronicles are essentially detailed records of political events, wars, successions, conquests, and the rule of kings and dynasties.
They were often written by court historians, chroniclers, and sometimes even by rulers themselves or people closely associated with the royal court.
For historians and researchers, political chronicles act as important primary sources, giving direct insights into the governance, administration, and power struggles of the time.
In the absence of modern documentation systems, these written records became the key tools for preserving history.
They help us understand how medieval kingdoms functioned, how rulers projected their power, and how political decisions were made and justified.
One of the biggest contributions of political chronicles is that they provide a timeline of events.
By narrating incidents in a chronological order, these texts allow historians to reconstruct the political history of a region.
Whether it was the rise and fall of dynasties or the victories and defeats in battlefields, chronicles help place events in sequence.
For example, texts like Rajatarangini by Kalhana give a detailed historical narrative of the kings of Kashmir, shedding light on not only their rule but also the political climate of the time.
Similarly, Persian chronicles like Tabaqat-i Nasiri and Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi offer deep insights into the Delhi Sultanate period, its rulers, and their administrative styles.
Another important aspect of political chronicles is that they reflect the viewpoint of the ruling elite.
Although this can sometimes be biased, it still offers an understanding of how rulers wanted to be seen and remembered.
These writings often glorify the achievements of kings, highlighting their military skills, justice, generosity, and religious devotion.
By studying these portrayals, historians get a sense of royal ideologies and the image rulers wanted to project.
It also reveals the kind of political culture that existed during the time.
For example, rulers were often shown as divinely chosen or as protectors of religion, which reveals the close link between politics and religion in the medieval period.
Political chronicles also throw light on the relationships between different kingdoms and empires. They mention alliances, treaties, rivalries, and diplomatic missions.
This helps us understand the broader political network of medieval India or any other region being studied.
These records reveal how politics was not only about wars but also about strategic marriages, shifting loyalties, and long-term planning.
Chronicles of the Mughal Empire, such as Akbarnama and Ain-i-Akbari by Abul Fazl, are excellent examples of how political and administrative details were recorded.
These works not only describe events but also analyze policies, giving a deeper understanding of the empire’s functioning.
However, it is important to understand that political chronicles were not always objective.
Since most of them were written under the patronage of kings, the chroniclers often exaggerated the achievements of their patrons while ignoring or downplaying their failures.
They sometimes presented one-sided views, particularly during conflicts or wars.
Therefore, while political chronicles are extremely useful, they must be read with a critical eye.
Historians compare different sources and cross-check information to draw accurate conclusions. Despite these limitations, the value of chronicles in historical studies cannot be denied.
In addition to political details, some chronicles also include information about society, economy, religion, and culture.
Even though these are not the main focus, they provide clues about the daily life of people, the condition of peasants, role of women, social hierarchies, and religious practices.
These glimpses make political chronicles more than just records of kings and wars—they become windows into the life of the times.
For instance, Tarikh-i-Mubarak Shahi and other such texts sometimes refer to famines, uprisings, or the construction of public works, which helps us understand the ruler’s engagement with his subjects.
Q 2. Examine the Mughal-Rajput relation in the time of Akbar.
Ans. The Mughal-Rajput relations during the time of Akbar marked a significant chapter in Indian history, showcasing a clever blend of diplomacy, tolerance, and strategic alliances.
Before Akbar’s reign, the Mughals had a more hostile relationship with the Rajputs, as earlier emperors focused primarily on military conquest.
However, when Akbar came to power, he introduced a new approach that combined military campaigns with diplomacy and respect for regional powers like the Rajputs.
His smart and inclusive policies helped to bring about peace and stability in much of northern India.
Akbar’s relations with the Rajputs were not just about politics and warfare, but also about building mutual trust and respect, which became a foundation for the long-lasting stability of the Mughal Empire.
Akbar realized that the Rajputs were not only brave warriors but also excellent administrators who had deep roots in the Indian subcontinent.
Instead of constantly fighting with them, he decided to form alliances through marriage and trust-building efforts.
One of the most well-known examples of this was his marriage to Harka Bai, a Rajput princess of Amber (later known as Jodha Bai), who became one of his prominent queens.
This marriage was not just a personal union but a powerful political move.
It sent a clear message to other Rajput rulers that the Mughals were ready to treat them with dignity and as equals.
This move helped in winning over several Rajput kingdoms without the need for prolonged battles.
Many Rajput rulers accepted Akbar’s offer of friendship and entered into alliances with the Mughal Empire.
These rulers were given high positions in the Mughal court and were trusted with key administrative and military responsibilities.
For example, Raja Man Singh of Amber became one of Akbar’s most loyal and successful generals.
He led several important military campaigns on behalf of the Mughal Empire.
This inclusion of Rajputs in high ranks of the Mughal administration created a unique model of governance where loyalty and merit were valued over religion or ethnicity.
It was a bold and practical step that ensured long-term peace between the Mughals and many Rajput clans.
However, not all Rajput rulers were willing to accept Mughal dominance. Some kingdoms, like Mewar under Rana Pratap, chose to resist Akbar’s efforts.
Rana Pratap is remembered for his courage and his refusal to submit to the Mughal Empire, even after the famous Battle of Haldighati in 1576.
Though the battle was won by Akbar’s forces, Rana Pratap continued his resistance through guerrilla warfare and remained a symbol of Rajput pride and bravery.
Akbar respected such bravery and continued to extend gestures of peace and diplomacy even to his rivals.
This showed that while Akbar was a powerful emperor, he was also wise and generous in his political approach.
Akbar’s religious tolerance also played a major role in improving Mughal-Rajput relations. He abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims and encouraged open discussions among scholars of different faiths.
His creation of the Ibadat Khana (House of Worship) for spiritual and religious debates was a sign of his broad-mindedness.
This helped in building trust among the Hindu Rajputs, who felt more respected under Akbar’s rule.
Unlike other rulers who forced their religious views upon others, Akbar followed a policy of Sulh-i-Kul, which means “universal peace.”
This approach strengthened the Mughal-Rajput bond and allowed both communities to work together for the prosperity of the empire.
The impact of Akbar’s Rajput policy went far beyond his reign.
The unity between the Mughals and the Rajputs laid the foundation for a strong and stable empire that lasted for several generations.
It also set an example of how two powerful and culturally different groups could coexist peacefully.
The contributions of Rajputs in the Mughal court became a symbol of mutual cooperation. Art, architecture, and administration flourished under this joint partnership.
The cultural exchange between the Mughals and Rajputs gave rise to a rich blend of traditions and values, which is still appreciated today.
Assignment – II
Q 3. Evaluate the land-revenue system under Akbar.
Ans. The land-revenue system under Akbar was one of the most important administrative reforms of his reign. It played a major role in strengthening the Mughal Empire and bringing financial stability.
Akbar understood that land revenue was the main source of income for the state, and for a vast and diverse empire like his, it was necessary to have a fair, efficient, and organized system.
With the help of his trusted finance minister, Raja Todar Mal, Akbar introduced a systematic and scientific land-revenue system that was both practical and long-lasting.
This system became known as the Todar Mal Bandobast or Zabt system, and it laid the foundation for land administration in India for many years.
One of the major features of Akbar’s land-revenue system was measurement of land. For the first time, land was carefully measured using standard units.
Survey teams were sent to different areas to assess the type of land, the quality of the soil, and the crops grown.
Based on this data, land was classified into categories such as good, average, and poor.
The revenue demand was fixed according to the productivity of the land. This helped in avoiding over-taxation and made the system more balanced and just.
Farmers felt a sense of relief as they were no longer taxed blindly, and this increased their trust in the Mughal administration.
Another important part of the system was the introduction of a fixed revenue rate.
The average produce of the land for the past ten years was taken into account, and one-third of that amount was set as the state’s share.
This made the tax predictable for farmers. They knew in advance what they had to pay and could plan their farming accordingly.
Payment was usually made in cash, which encouraged trade and helped in the development of a market economy.
However, in times of difficulty, such as natural disasters or poor harvests, the state provided relief, showing that the system had flexibility and a human side.
Akbar’s revenue system was also known for its proper record-keeping. Detailed accounts were maintained, and official documents called patta (land grant) and qabuliat (agreement) were given to the peasants.
These documents clearly mentioned the amount of land held and the tax to be paid. This brought transparency and reduced chances of corruption.
The officers involved in the revenue collection, like the amil (revenue officer), were strictly supervised, and any misuse of power was punished.
Despite its many strengths, the system had some drawbacks too. The reliance on officials and intermediaries sometimes led to misuse or pressure on farmers.
In some areas, it was hard to apply a standard system due to regional differences in farming. But overall, Akbar’s land-revenue reforms were a great success.
They not only increased the empire’s income but also strengthened the bond between the rulers and the rural population.
Q 4. Write a note on the rise of Ahom state in Assam.
Ans. The rise of the Ahom state in Assam is an important chapter in Indian history, especially in the context of northeastern India.
The Ahoms were originally a Tai-speaking people who came from the region of present-day Yunnan in China.
They entered Assam in the early 13th century, around 1228 AD, under the leadership of a brave and capable leader named Sukaphaa.
Unlike many other invaders, the Ahoms did not just conquer and leave; they settled down in Assam, gradually expanding their power and forming a strong and stable kingdom that lasted for nearly 600 years.
Sukaphaa, the founder of the Ahom kingdom, was not only a warrior but also a wise ruler. When he entered Assam, he did not try to dominate the local people by force.
Instead, he made friendly relations with the local tribes and communities. He married into local families, respected their traditions, and slowly built trust among the people.
This clever and peaceful approach helped him gain the support of various tribal groups. Over time, the Ahoms began to absorb local customs, languages, and practices.
This blending of cultures gave their rule a strong foundation and helped them to govern effectively.
As the years passed, the Ahoms expanded their territory by defeating rival kingdoms and tribes. They built a strong administration that focused on justice, efficient land management, and military strength.
One of their unique features was their Paik system, where every adult male had to give a certain number of days to the state in return for land.
This system gave them a steady supply of labor for farming, construction, and even the army. It also helped in creating a sense of unity and duty among the people.
The Ahoms were known for their strong resistance against powerful enemies. One of the most famous moments in their history was their successful defense against the Mughal Empire.
In the 17th century, the Mughals tried to capture Assam and fought several battles with the Ahoms. The Battle of Saraighat in 1671 was a turning point.
Under the leadership of the brave general Lachit Borphukan, the Ahoms defeated the Mughals in a naval battle on the Brahmaputra River.
This victory is remembered as a symbol of Assamese pride and resistance.
Culturally, the Ahoms made great contributions to Assam. They promoted art, architecture, literature, and the preservation of historical records.
Temples, tanks, and forts built during their rule still stand today as proof of their rich legacy.
Though they originally followed their traditional Tai religion, over time, they adopted Hinduism and became deeply involved in the social and religious life of the region.
Q 5. What is hundi? How did it become an important form of monetary transaction in Mughal period?
Ans. A hundi was a traditional financial instrument used in India, especially during the Mughal period, to carry out money transactions without the physical movement of cash.
In simple words, it was like a bill of exchange or a written note used for transferring money from one place to another.
The person who wrote the hundi was known as the drawer, and the person who received the money was the payee. It worked on trust and was widely accepted among merchants, traders, and moneylenders.
In those days, when banking systems were not well-developed, hundis served as a safe and reliable way to send money, make payments, and settle debts.
During the Mughal period, the use of hundis became more common and important due to the growth of trade and commerce.
The empire had a large and rich economy, with many local markets, trade routes, and distant trading centers.
Merchants had to carry out transactions over long distances, and carrying huge amounts of money in the form of coins was risky because of theft or robbery.
In this situation, hundis provided a perfect solution.
A person could deposit money in one city, get a hundi written by a known moneylender, and his business partner or family member could collect the money in another city by showing the hundi to the corresponding moneylender there.
One of the reasons hundis became so popular was the trust that existed among the trader community. Business families and merchant groups had networks spread across different regions.
These networks were built on reputation and honesty, so when a hundi was issued by a known person, it was accepted without hesitation. It made trade easier and safer.
Even rulers and nobles used hundis for private transactions because they were fast, secure, and didn’t involve the trouble of moving physical currency.
Hundis were also flexible and came in different forms. Some were payable on demand, while others were payable after a fixed time.
This helped traders manage credit and debt in a better way. It acted as a form of credit, which boosted economic activity.
Merchants who didn’t have immediate cash could still do business using hundis, which they promised to repay later.
This credit system helped the economy grow and allowed businesses to flourish in the Mughal period.
Another important point is that hundis were written in local languages and followed traditional practices, so they were easy to understand and use.
They did not need complex legal rules like modern bank documents. Their informal nature actually made them more user-friendly for local traders and small businessmen.
Over time, the system became highly organized and was trusted even by foreign traders visiting India.
Assignment – III
Q 6. Economic Role of Temples in Vijayanagar.
Ans. In the Vijayanagar Empire, temples were not just religious places; they played a key role in the economic life of the people.
Temples owned large pieces of fertile land, which were given to them by kings and rich people.
These lands were cultivated by farmers, and the produce helped in running temple activities and festivals. Many temples acted like small economic centers.
They gave work to sculptors, artists, weavers, cooks, and even musicians.
Temples also served as banks. People deposited money and gold in temples, and the priests used this wealth to give loans for trade and farming.
Temple towns like Hampi grew into major business centers, attracting traders from different parts of India and abroad.
Temples also supported local craftsmen and acted as marketplaces during festivals.
In short, Vijayanagar temples were deeply connected with the economy — they gave employment, promoted art, encouraged trade, and helped in managing wealth.
Their influence went beyond religion and touched the daily lives of common people, making them an important part of the empire’s prosperity.
Q 7. Rural Intermediaries in Sultanate.
Ans. During the Delhi Sultanate period, rural intermediaries played a major role in managing villages and collecting taxes.
These intermediaries were people like khuts, muqaddams, and chaudharis, who acted as a link between the rulers and the village population.
The Sultanate was too vast for direct control over every village, so these local leaders helped in implementing the state’s orders.
They collected land revenue from peasants and passed it on to the government after keeping their share. They also helped maintain peace and order in the village.
In return, they were given special rights, land, or a share of the collected revenue. These intermediaries had social status and influence in their communities.
Sometimes they used their power to exploit farmers, which led to tension. But their role was also useful, as they had knowledge of local customs, land, and people.
They helped the Sultanate rule such a large and diverse region.
So, rural intermediaries were like the backbone of village administration during that time — sometimes helpful, sometimes unfair — but always important for the working of the empire.
Q 8. Printing press in medieval India
Ans. The printing press came to India during the late medieval period, introduced by the Portuguese in Goa around 1556.
It was a big development, even though it took time to spread across the country.
Before printing, all books were copied by hand, which was slow and expensive. The printing press made it possible to produce multiple copies of books in a shorter time.
In Goa, the first printed books were religious, mostly Christian texts in Latin and later in Konkani and other local languages.
The press helped in spreading religious ideas, learning, and education among the people.
However, in the rest of India, the impact of the printing press was slow at first. This was because rulers and traditional scholars still relied on hand-written manuscripts.
But over time, the printing press helped spread ideas, supported learning, and laid the foundation for modern education in India.
Though its reach was limited in the medieval period, it was still an important step that changed how knowledge was shared.
Q 9. Rudrama Devi
Ans. Rudrama Devi was one of the few powerful female rulers in Indian history. She belonged to the Kakatiya dynasty and ruled in the 13th century in present-day Telangana.
Her father, Ganapati Deva, had no male heir, so he trained Rudrama Devi to be his successor. She ruled with great courage and intelligence.
To gain acceptance in a male-dominated society, she even took on a male title, “Rudradeva.” She fought bravely against rebellious nobles and external enemies.
Her rule was known for strong administration, public welfare, and protecting her kingdom from attacks.
She encouraged building tanks, temples, and forts, which helped in both development and defense. People respected her for her fairness and leadership.
Despite being a woman in a time when female rulers were rare, she proved her ability and maintained the strength of the Kakatiya kingdom.
Rudrama Devi’s reign is remembered as a symbol of women’s power and capable governance in medieval India.
Q 10. Caliphate and Delhi Sultanate
Ans. The Caliphate was the spiritual and political leadership of the Islamic world after the death of Prophet Muhammad.
The Caliphs were seen as the rightful successors of the Prophet, and their approval held religious importance.
During the Delhi Sultanate, especially under rulers like Iltutmish, the sultans sought recognition from the Caliph to gain religious legitimacy.
Iltutmish even received a robe of honor and a letter of investiture from the Abbasid Caliph in Baghdad, which made his rule more acceptable to the Muslim population.
However, the Delhi Sultans were practically independent in their rule.
The Caliph had no real control over India, but his blessings gave moral support.
Over time, the link with the Caliphate weakened as the Delhi Sultans gained more power and confidence.
Still, in the early years, the Caliphate’s recognition helped the Sultans establish their rule and strengthen their position among Indian Muslims. It was a mix of religious respect and political need.
IGNOU BHIC 132 Solved Free Assignment