Overview
This lecture covers the division and features of the Medieval period in Indian history, highlighting key dynasties, cultural developments, and major sources of historical information from the era.
Periodization of Medieval India
- The Medieval period in India spans from the 8th to the 18th century, lasting about 1,100 years.
- It is divided into the Early Medieval (8th–13th century) and Late Medieval periods (13th–18th century).
- Early Medieval India was dominated by the Palas, Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, Cholas, and Rajputs.
- The Late Medieval period saw rule by Turks, Afghans, and Mughals.
Names and Cultural Changes
- India has been known by various names such as Bharat, India, Hindustan, and in ancient times as Jambudwipa.
- The term "India" originally referred to the land by the river Sindhu.
- This period saw a mixing of cultures, especially between North and South, and between Hindus and Muslims.
- Cultural exchanges promoted a unified Indian culture above regional and caste differences.
Political Stability and Cultural Growth
- Dynasties like the Mughals provided stability, supporting increased trade and urban growth.
- Trade and foreign interaction introduced new cultural elements to India.
- Islam spread, as did the Bhakti and Sufi movements, emphasizing devotion and kindness.
Sources of Medieval Indian History
- Archaeological sources: temples, palaces, mosques, tombs, coins, inscriptions, utensils, tools, weapons, ornaments, and paintings.
- Temples in South India provide rich religious and cultural insights.
- Coins reveal political events and economic conditions; "Dry Pratiksha" is a book about coins from Alauddin Khalji's reign.
- Writings are abundant due to the easy availability of paper, including chronicles, biographies, autobiographies, and official records.
Important Written Records
- Chronicles: Detailed accounts of reigns, usually in Persian or Turkish.
- "Rajatarangini" covers Kashmir's kings.
- Ziauddin Barani's works and those by Amir Khusro detail Delhi Sultans.
- Autobiographies: "Baburnama" (Babar), "Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri" (Jahangir).
- Biographies: "Prithviraj Raso" (Chand Bardai), "Humayun Nama" (Gulbadan Begum), "Akbarnama" (Akbar's reign).
Accounts by Foreign Travelers
- Foreign travelogues provide details on society, geography, and interactions.
- Notable travelers: Alberuni, Marco Polo, Nicola Conti, Duarte Barbosa, Ralph Fitch, William Hawkins, Sir Thomas Roe, Jean-Baptiste Tavernier.
- Their writings offer valuable perspectives on medieval India.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Medieval Period — The era in Indian history from the 8th to the 18th century.
- Chronicle — A detailed historical record, especially of a king’s rule and court life.
- Bhakti Movement — A devotional movement emphasizing love and devotion to God.
- Sufi Movement — Islamic mystic tradition promoting love, tolerance, and devotion.
- Travelogue — An account recorded by a traveler about the places visited and experiences.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the listed dynasties and movements of Medieval India.
- Read excerpts from important chronicles and travelogues mentioned.
- Prepare a brief summary of archaeological and literary sources from the period.