La Ex Medeival History Notes by Seenaiah Sir PDF

Medieval Indian History
EARLY MEDIEVAL INDIA (700 – 1200 A.D.)
Important changes that took place during the period:

1. Pataliputra lost its importance and could never regain its prestige.
Kannauj, the capital city of Harsha assumed prominence for which wars started amogest the
Palas of Bengal, Pratihars of M.P and Rastrakutas of Karnataka. The prolonged warf tripartite
struggle or triangular war finally led to the decline of the three dynasties. However, the
Rastrakutas survived for the longest period in the struggle.
2. 700-1200 A.D. witnessed maximum decentralization of political authority. As many as
1200 regional kingdoms were formed. It was called the ‘heyday of Indian Feudalism’.
3. A new community called Rajputs emerged for the first time. According to Chand Bardoi,
the court poet of Prithviraj and the author of Prithviraj Charitra and Prithvirajaraso, the
Rajputs were born out of sacred fire at Mount Abu. The four Rajput clans were Chauhans,
Pratihars, Paramars and Solanki. These together are called Agnikula Kshatriyas.
Colonel Todd, a British officer and historian wrote Annals of Rajputana. He felt that Rajputs
were foreigners.
THE PROMINENT DYNASTIES:

2. Rastrakutas:
They ruled Maharashtra and Karnataka. Their first capital city was Ellichipuram (Ellora) and
the second capital city was Mayakatak (Malkhed). Dantidurga, the founder of the dynasty
1rganized1d the famous Dasavatar temple at Ellora.
Krishna I constructed the famous Kailashnath temple at Ellora. Druva was the first great king
of the dynasty and he was the first to conquer Kannauj by defeating Pratiharas and Palas.
Govinda III was the 2nd Rastrakuta ruler to occupy Kannauj. Amoghavarsha, the greatest
ruler of the Rastrakutas, was the last patron of Jainism. Karka was the last ruler of the
Rastrakutas. They were replaced by the Kalyani Chalukyas who were founded by Tailapa.
Rastrakutas perfected the cave temple architecture by constructing other cave temples like
Indrasabha and Kotakailasa at Ellora. In their empire, the great scholar in Mathematics,
Mahavicharya wrote Ganithasarasangraha.
2. Pratihars:
The Pratikars are also called Gurjarapratihar dynasty. They ruled M.P. with their capital city
at Binnal. Nagabhata I was the founder of the dynasty. Mihirabhoj was the greatest ruler of
the dynasty.
Sheikh Suleiman, an Arab merchant traveier visited the court of Bhoja.
Rajashekhara who wrote Karpuramanjari and Kavyamimansa, was the court poet of
Mahendrapala of the Pratihar dynasty.
Rajyapala was the last ruler of the dynasty and was killed by Vidyadhar of Chandelas in 1081
A.D for his cowardly act when Mahmud Ghazni attacked Kalinjhar fort.
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3. Palas Palas ruled West Bengal with their capital city at Monghyr. Gopala was the founder
of the dynasty and Dharmapala was the greatest ruler of the Pala dynasty. The only Pala King
to rule Kannauj with the title Uttarapatha Swamin (Lord of the North) was Mahipala, the last
great king of the Palas. He was defeated by Rajendra Chola of the Chola dynasty who took
control over Silk trade with China.
4. Senas:
Founded by Samanta Sen, they ruled Bihar and Bengal. Ballala Sen introduced a form of
landed aristocracy called Kulinism. Lakshman Sen, the greatest and last of the dynasty,
founded the city of Lakhanauti. Jaidev, the author of Gita Govinda and Doji and the author of
Pavanaduta were the court poets of Lakshmnan Sen. Lakshman Sen was defeated by Bakhitar
Khijli in 1197 A.D.
5. Eastern Ganga dynasty:

They ruled Kanliga with the capital at Tripuri. The 2rgani was founded by Choda Gangadeva.
Narasimha Choda Gangadeva constructed the famous Sun temple at Konark. Sambudeva
constructed the Lingaraj Temple at Bhubaneswar. Bhanudeva III was defeated by Feroz Shah
Tughlaq.
6. Parmars:
They ruled Southern Malwa with the capital city at Dhar (M.P.) Upendra was the founder of
the dynasty. Bhojaraj was the greatest of the Parmars, who also wrote the famous
Samaradngana Sutradhara (which deals with architecture) and Ayurveda Sarvasva
(Everything on Ayurveda).
7. Chandelas:
They ruled Bundelkhand with the capital city at Khajuraho. The dynasty was also called
Jejakabhukti dynasty (forest tribe with their family dcity as Jejaka). Yasovarman was the first
great king. His son, Vidyadhar also called Ganda was one of the greatest of all Indian kings.
He offered the most successful resistance to Mahmud Ghazni when Ghazni attacked
Kalinjhar fort in 1081 A.D. The temples at Khajuraho were constructed by Chandelas and
Mahotsavnagar.
8. Solankis:
They ruled Gujarat. The dynasty was founded by Mulraj and Anihilwad was their capital city.
In 1025 A.D. Mohd Ghazni attacked Somnath temple, the richest temple in Indian in the
Kathiawar district in Gujrat. He defeated Bhima I and looted the temple. Bhima II and Mulraj
II together defeated Mohd Ghori in the battle of Mt. Abu in 1179 A.D. Gujrat was finally
conquered by Alauddin Khilji in 1296 A.D.
9. Chauhans:
They ruled North Rajasthan and Haryana. They belonged to Sakambari cult (family deity of
Chauhans). The dynasty was founded by Simharaj Chauhan. Ajayraj Chauhan founded the
city of Ajmer. Prithviraj Chauhan was the greatest ruler of the dynasty. He became popular as
Roypithora. He married Samyukta, daughter of Jaichandra against the wishes of Jaichandra.
In 1191 A.D, Prithviraj defeated Md. Ghori in the First Battle of Tarain. In the Second Battle
of Tarain in 1192 A.D., Mohd Ghori defeated Prithviraj with the help of Jaichandra.
Chand Bardoi, the court poet of Prithviraj wrote Prithvirajraso and Prithviraj Charitra.
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10. Tomars:
They ruled Haryana and Delhi and founded the city of Delhi which was then called Dallika.
Mahipal Tomar was the greatest ruler of the dynasty.
11. Guhadwalas:
They ruled South Rajasthan with the capital city at Nagada. Jaichandra was their greatest
ruler. In 193 A.D. Ghori killed Jaichandra in the battle of Chandwa.
HISTORY OF KASHMIR:
Kalhana’s Rajatarangini is the first systematically written historical text in Indian history. It
deals with the five dynasties that ruled Kashmir.
• Lalitha Aditya Muktapada – The greatest of Karkotaka dynasty (1st dynasty to rule
Kashmir).
He constructed the famous Martanda temple in Srinagar and promoted trade between
Kashmir and China.
Avantivarma, the most popular king in the history of Kashmir promoted many irrigation
systems. With the help of his minister Suia, he constructed a dam across Vitsata river
(Jhelum). He belonged to the Utpala dynasty.
Diddadevi, the only woman ruler in the history of Kashmir, was wife of Kshamagupta and
belonged to the Poorvagupta dynasty.
New Chola Dynasty:

It was founded by Vijayalaya Chola who was a feudatory of the Pallavas. Tanjore or
Thanjavur was their Capital city. Aditya Chola was the first great king, who also defeated the
last of the Pallavas, Aparajitavarma. Parantaka I issued the famous Uttaramerur inscription
that talks about the village administarion under the Cholas.
The Rastrakuta and Chola dynastic wars began during his times. Krishna II of the Rastrakutas
was defeated by Parantaka in the Battle of Pallava in 919 A.D. Krishna III of Rastrakutas
defeated and killed Parantaka in the Battle of Tukkonam (939 A.D.).
Rajaraja Chola was the greatest of the Chola rulers. He defeated Pandyas, Cheras, Banas,
Kadambas and Western Gangas. Vimaladitya of the Eastern Chalukyas became the son-in-
law of – Rajaraja Chola. He attacked Ceylon, destroyed the capital city Anuradhapur and
annexed Western Ceylon.
ARAB CONQUEST OF SIND:

It was Calipha Wahid who declared “Jihad’ on Sind on the complaint of Al-Hazaz, the Sultan
of Persia. Dahir, the king of Sind, was a Brahmin and the majority was Buddhists. Mohd bin
Qasim led the Arab army, destroyed the golden city Multan and killed Dahir in the Battle of
Roare.
Results:
1. The interaction between Hinduism and Islam led to the emergence of Sufism in Islam and
Bhakti movement in Hinduism.
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2. The Arabs translated Ganithashstra and Charak Samhita into Arabic language called Sind
Hind, and also appropriated the popular play, Shatranj:
3. Jizia, a religious tax on all non-muslims in the Islamic state was levied for the first time in
Sind. Women, children, slaves and Brahmins were exempted from paying this tax.
TURKISH CONQUEST OF INDIA:

Mohammed Ghazni – 998 A.D-1030 A.D.
His actual name was Abu Qasim and he belonged to the Yamini dynasty that ruled Ghazni in
Afghanistan. He attacked India as many as 17 times during the winter seasons. He defeated
Saipala of Kashmir, Daud of Sind, Rajyapala of Pratihars and Bhima I of Solankis. In 1025
A.D. he looted the Somnath temple which was the richest temple in India. The Jats of
Haryana always created problems for Ghazni while on his journey back.
The Arab historians- Al-Beruni, Al-masudi and Utbi visited India along with him. Alberuni
stayed at Varanasi and read Sanskrit for 10 years. He wrote the most authoritative, authentic
source on early medieval India.
Alberuni observed that

a) India’s priestly classes were self-centered, deceptive, arrogant and indifferent.
b) The caste system was responsible for the defeat of Indians.
c) Indians had no sense of history, strategies of warfare and no innovativeness. He also wrote
Jawahir-ul-Jawahir on mineralogy and Quanun-i-Masudi that dealt with astronomy.
Firdausi, an Indian, was invited by Ghazni to write his biography. Shahnamal written by
Firdausi is called the Odyssey of Persian literature. Ghazni was impressed by Sanskrit
language and issued Silver coins with Sanskrit verses.
Mohammad Ghazni:
His actual name was Moizuddin, the Sultan of Ghori in Afghanistan. His titles were Jahan-i-
Soz (one who sets World on fire). He was also known as Burshikhan (Idol Breaker). His main
objective was to make Islam popular in India. He was very much troubled by a tribe called
Khokaras. He appointed Aibak as his representative in India.
DELHI SULTANATE (1206 – 1526 A.D.)

Sultanate in Indian context connotes ‘association’ or ‘series’ of five dynasties:
1. Slave Dynasty - 1206 A.D. – 1290 A.D.
2. Khilji Dynasty - 1290 A.D. – 1320 A.D.
3. Tughlaq Dynasty - 1320 A.D. – 1414 A.D.
4. Sayyid Dynasty - 1414 A.D. – 1451 A.D.
5. Lodhi Dynasty - 1451 A.D. – 1526 A.D
The Tughlaqs ruled for the longest and Khilji for the shortest period. The Slave dynasty had
the maximum number of sultans (10) and the Lodhis had the least (3).
SLAVE DYNASTY:
It was founded by Qutubuddin Aibak (who was popularly known as Lakh Baksh) together
with Mongbarni in Central Asia and Yalduz in Lahore, who were the two representatives of
Ghori. Aibak was also known as Akshar Baksh for his patronage given to poets. He died at
Lahore while playing Chogam (polo).
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Aram Shan, son of Aibak was the first Sultan deposed by the Sardars (military commanders).
Iltutmish or Altamash, son-in-law of Aibak, is considered the real founder of the Slave
dynasty. His reforms included:
1. Introduction of Silver coins called Tankas and Copper coins called Jittals for the first time.
2. Appointment of Sujan Roy Pandit to draft a text on administration. That took the form of
Kulsath-ul-Tawarikh.
3. An association of 40 nobles called Chahalgani was by Iltutmish for the first time.
4. He was also the first to introduce Land Assignment System called Iqtadari.
5. Iltutmish was the first to introduce the principle of hereditary succession.
It was during his time that the Mongols invaded India for the first time under the leadership
of Chengiz Khan.
Razia Sultana: She was the only woman ruler in the history of Delhi. Shc promoted an
Abyssinian slave Yakub to the highest rank of Amir-i-Alore i.e. the Chief Commander of
Cavalry. This was not at all appreciated by the nobility. She was killed by the Court officers
while returning back from Bhatinda along with Altunia, her cousin.
Minaz-us-Siraz wrote the famous Tabaqath-i-Nasiri on the administration of Nasiruddin (who

had taken over the throne after Razia).
Ghiasuddin Balban – 1265 A.D. – 1286 A.D.:

He was the greatest ruler of the Slave dynasty and his actual name was Ulughukhan.
He was first to introduce the theory of divine origin of kingship, declaring the Sultan as the
Shadow of God (Jilla-i-ilahi).
He abolished Chahalgani, the association of 40 nobles that constituted the most important
part of the nobility and was crucial to any decision making. He also 5rganized5d the lata
system for the first time in order to curb the power of nobles and created a separate
department Diwan-i-Araz for military admintration. He introduced the royal customs: Shizda
and Paibos i.e prostration, kissing the fingers/hand of Sultan and touching his feet.
The Persian New Year festival, Navaroz, was introduced for the first time.
His eldest son Prince Mohammed died in the fight against Mongols and Balban died of
shock.
Kaiqubad – 1286 A.D.-1290 A.D.:

He was the grandson of Balban and the last ruler of the Slave dynasty. Interestingly he was
the first Sultan to come to power when his father Bugra Khan was alive. Bugra Khan was the
second son of Balban and the Governor of Bengal. He was deposed by Jalaluddin Khilji as he
was incompetent and paralytic.
KHILJI DYNASTY:
It was founded by Jalaluddin Khilji (1290 – 1295 A.D.), the most democratic of all Delhi
Sultans. Mongols invaded India under the leadership of Ulagu. Jalal defeted Mongols and
converted them into Islam. The converted Mongols were called Naya Musalmans.
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Allaudin Khilji, the first son-in-law of Jalaluddin went to Devgiri and defeated Ramachandra
Dev of the Yadava dynasty. It was the first victory of the Muslims in the South (1295 A.D.)
Allaudin Khilji – 1295-1315 A.D.:

He was the greatest of the Delhi Sultans. His ambition was to conquer the world like
Alexander and to find a new religion like Prophet Mohammed. He took the title Sikander-i-
Sahani (second Alexender).
KHILJI IMPERIALISM:
1. In 1296 A.D. Rana Karnadeva of Gujarat was defeated. Alauddin captured his wife
Kamala Devi and Malik Kafur was made the Chief Commander of Alauddin.
2. In 1299 A.D. Rana Hammir Dev of Ranathambore was defeated.
3. In 1303 A.D., Alauddin attacked Mewar and defeated Rana Ratan Singh. According to
Malik Jayasi who wrote Padmavath, Rani Padmini, the wife of Rana Ratan Singh was the
main attraction for Alauddin which led to the attack.
4. In 1305 A.D. he defeated Rana Mahalakdey of Malwa and became the emperor of
Hindustan Expeditions in South India were conducted by Malik Kafur. In 1309 A.D. he
defeated Ramchandradev of Devagiri.
In 1310 A.D. Prataprudradev of the Kakatiya dynasty of Warrangal was defeated. In the
second expedition that started in 1312 A.D., Malik Kafur defeated Veeraballala III of the
Hoysala dynasty of Dwarasamudram.
In 1313 A.D., he interfered in the civil war between Sundarapandya and Veerapandya, made
Sundara the king of Madurai and installed a victory pillar at Rameswaram.
REFORMS:
To curb the nobility, Alauddin banned marriages amongst the noble families; consumption of
liquor and appointed Mohitsibs to keep an eye on the activities of the nobles. Mohitsibs were
the Royal Censor Officers to uphold the Koran but Alauddin used them as spies to check the
power of nobility.
Military Reforms.
He was the first Sultan to commission a permanent standing army. He abolished the Inamdari
system and paid salaries in cash. Each soldier was paid 234 Tankas per annum. This was
called as Italaq system. To avoid duplication, he introduced Dagh system (branding the
horses).
Market Reforms:
The main purpose of controlling market prices was to maintain the permanent standing army.
Alauddin appointed a controller of markets called Shahana-i-Mandi and also spies to oversee
the implementation of the price list. They were called Barids. Price regulation was followed
in and around Delhi only.
“Revenue Reforms:
1. He stopped the Iqta system.
2. Abolished hereditary revenue officers at the village level called Chaudhuris, Khots,
Muqaddams and Patwaris.
3. He introduced crop estimation method and a method for assessing the revenue called
Kankuth system (Grain estimation system). Of all the kings in ancient Indian history he
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charged the highest land tax (50% of the gross produce). However, it was the East India
Company that charged the highest land tax of 55% in the overall past of India.
4. He was the first Sultan to sanction loans called Taccavi and founded a separate department
called Diwan-i-Mustakharin for the purpose of collecting revenue arrears.
Religious Reforms:
He was the first Sultan to separate religion from State and who refused to pay allegiance to
the Calipha.
Malik Kafur created reign of terror after killing Khizr Khan and Shahabuddin (first Sultan
bom to a Hindu mother named Kamala Devi). Qutubuddin Mubarak Khilji, the last of the
Khilji’s took the title Calipha. He was killed by his Wazir, Nassiruddin Khusrau who come to
power with the title Khusrau Shah. Khusrau was a Hindu converted to Islam and he ordered
installing idols in mosque. He was killed by Ghiazuddin Tughlaq.
TUGHLAO DYNASTY (1320 A.D. – 1414 A.D.)

This dynasty was founded by Ghiyazuddin Tuglag or Ghazi Malik. He also founded the city
of Tughlaquabad. He was the first Sultan to introduce postal system by employing horse
couriers. He was stamped to death by an elephant.
It was Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya who gave the prophecy “the Sultan would not reach
Delhi”. Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325 A.D-1351 A.D.)
His actual name was Jauna Khan and he was the most enlightened of all the Delhi sultans. He
was a prolific scholar in Persian and Arabaic languages, maths, natural sciences, theology and
an excellent lexicographer. It was lack of practical sense of judgement and his various
measures that made the Sultan a failure.
His controversial reforms were

3. Increased land tax by 40% in the Ganga Yamuna Doab. It was the first act that made
the
Sultan unpopular.
b) Shifted the capital city from Delhi to Daulatabad (Devgiri) so that he could rule over
Deccan in a better way. He left Delhi for two years and lived in a camp called Swarga-dwari
as Delbi was ravaged by a form of plague at that time. According to the contemporary
historian, Ziauddin Barani, the real intention of the Sultan was to punish the people of Delhi.
c) Tughlaq introduced a token currency of copper coins, but the Copper coins actually
contained bronze which were minted in Tripuri at Kalinga. The effect of the copper currency
on the economy was hyperinflation and it again proved disastrous.
d) The last act that made the Sultan unpopular was his attempt to conquer Khorasan in
Central Asia. This led huge losses in the treasury and weakened the economy of the empire to
a great extent.
His other reforms were as follows:

4. He sanctioned Sandbar loans to the cultivators and founded a separate department for
agriculture called Diwan-i-Kohi.
2. He was the first Sultan to openly celebrate Hindu festivals like Holi and to go to the
temples. He held the Jain scholar Janaprabha Suri in great respect.
3. In 1341 A.D. Ibn-Batuta, a traveler from Morraco visited the court of Tughlaq. He was
made the Qazi of Delhi. He also wrote Kitab-i-Rehala.
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+ He was the first Sultan to conduct census in city of Delhi. The Sultanate Empire expanded
to its maximum during his reign. Nevertheless, it also started disintegrating during his time.
He died in 1315 A.D. while going to Tatta in Sind.
Feroz Shah Tughlaq (1351 A.D. – 1389 A.D.)

He was the second Sultan born to a Hindu mother and also second Sultan to come to power
when his father was alive.
1. He abolished all the additional taxes called Abwabs and collected only four.
a) Khams – A tax on the spoils of the war i.e., 1/5th
b) Kharaz – Land Tax.
c) Zakat – Charity tax collected for the maintenance of educational institutes called
Madarasas (2 – 2.5%) on individual income per annum.
d) Jiziya – Religious tax on non-muslims (token tax). Feroz collected Jiziya even from
Brahmins.
2. He constructed four major irrigation systems or canals between river Yamuna and river
Sutlej and collected an irrigation tax called Haqi Shirb (1/10 th of the produce).
He constructed the cities Jaunpur in memory of his cousin Jauna on the banks of river Gomti.
Ferozpur, Ferozabad, Fatehpur and Fatehabad were also founded by him.
He beautified the city of Delhi with 1200 gardens.
He founded a department called Diwan-i-Bandagan for the welfare of the slaves. He was the
first Sultan to construct public hospitals called Dar-ul-shafa.
Diwan-i-Khairat was the employment bureau created by Feroz for providing employment to
the Muslim youth and to perform free-of-cost marriages.
He also revived the Iqta system and introduced the hereditary succession in army. . He wrote
his autobiography called Futuhat-i-Ferozshahi.
Ziauddin Barani and Shams Siraz Atif, the two court historians of Firoz wrote two different
text books with the same title called Tarikh-i-Ferozshahi.
Mohammed Shah Tughlag was the last of the Tughlaq dynasty. Timur, the king of Persia
attacked Delhi in 1398 A.D. and the Sultan Md. Shah Tughlaq took shelter in Gujarat. The
independent kingdoms of Jaunpur, Malwa and Gujarat were founded during his period. Timur
appointed Khizra Khan as his representative. The power of the Sultan was confined between
Delhi to Palam under Md. Shah.
SAYYİD DYNASTY-(1414 A.D.-1451 A.D.)

This dynasty was founded by Khizra Khan. They claimed descendancy from Prophet Mohd.
Mubarak Khan was the greatest king of the dynasty. His court poet Yahyabin Ahamad
Sirhindi wrote Tahrikh-i-Mubarakshahi regarding the day to day administration under Md.
Shah. Alauddin Alam Shah, the last of the dynasty was deposed by Bahlul Lodi.
LODI DYNASTY –(1451 A.D -1526A.D.):

It was founded by Bahlul Lodi. Lodis belonged to Afghan race.
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Sikandar Lodi, the greatest of the Lodi dynasty founded the city of Agra. Like Alauddin
Khilji, he also tried to control market prices. He persecuted Kabir for preaching Hindu-
Muslim unity.
Ibrahim Lodi was the last ruler of the dynasty. Alam Khan, Daulat Khan Lodi and Rana
Sanga were the enemies of Ibrahim Lodi. In 1524 A.D. they invited Babar to wage a war
against Ibrahim.
In the First Battle of Panipat (April 21, 1526, Sunday 9 A.M.), Babar killed Ibrahim Lodi and
brought an end to the Delhi Sultanate.
Sultanate Adminstration:
Sultan was assisted by four departments:
1. Diwan-i-Wazirat .was the Finance Dept headed by a Wazir. He was assisted by Mustafi-
iMumalik (Auditor General) and Mushrif-i-Mumalik (Accountant General).
2. Diwan-i-Araz was the Military Dept., created by Balban and headed by Araz-i-Mumalik.
(Chief Commander).
3. Diwan-i-Insha was the Dept. of Correspondence headed by Dabir-i-Mumalik (Chief
Correspondent).
4. Diwan-i-Risalat was the department for religious affairs, endowments and in some cases
external affairs. It was headed by a Chief Qazi.
Empire was divided into provinces called ‘Sarkars’ which were governed by Naib and Wali.
→ Sarkars were divided into districts called Shiqs ruled-by Shiqdar.
→ Ships were further divided into groups of villags called Paraganas, headed by Amil. →
Village was the lowest unit administered by hereditary Hindu officers known as Khots,
Muqaddams, Chaudhuris and Patwaris.
Terms relating to revenue administration:

Bigha – unit of land equal to 1 acre.
Biswa – 1/20th of Bigha.
Hasil – Actual crop/turnover or net crop with a person after expenses.
Jamadami – Assessed revenue.
Kankhuth – Crop estimation method introduced by Alauddin Khilji.
Bhooli – Crop sharing method.
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION:
Department of Judiciary called Qazi-ul-Qazat was headed by Sadr-us-Sudur (Chief Justice).
Qazis dealt with civil cases while the Criminal cases were dealt by Mufti, Miradi and Saeed.
Hindus had their own laws and separate Courts.
PROVINCIAL DYNASTIES:
New Chola Dynasty: Rajaraja Chola held titles such as Chola martanda, Shivapadasekhare,
Mummadicholadeva and Madurai Konda.
REFORMS:
→ He was the first to introduce the system of auditing the village accounts. He was not law
maker but a guardian of the law. It was a State with least bureaucracy. However it was a very
democratic state. Autonomy was given to village assemblies and local self government was
given importance.
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He started the practice of appointing crown prince or Yuvaraj as the head of either revenue or
military departments.
→ He was the first to issue Tamil inscriptions with detailed dynastic history. → He
constructed the famous Brihadeswaram or Rajarajeswaram temple at Tanjore, the biggest
temple in India.
Rajendra Chola – He defeated Mahipala of Bengal and took the title Gangaikonda
(Conqueror of Ganges) and constructed the city Gangaikonda Cholapuram. He completely
annexed Ceylon, destroyed the capital city of Suvarnadweep (Indonesia) called Kadaram.
The main reason behind the naval expeditions of the Cholas was to exercise monopoly in
trade with China. He was also known as Panditachola.
Adi Rajendra was the last king of Chola dynasty who was defeated by the Pandyas.
Chola Chalukya Dynasty:

Kulottanga Chola was the greatest of the dynasty. He sent a delegation of 72 merchants to
China. He was a staunch follower of Saivism and persecuted Ramanujacharya, a great
Vaishnava saint (the one who propounded Visista-advaita). He founded
Kulottangacholapuram (modern Vishakapatnam).
Chola Administration:
The unique aspect of the administration was the absolute autonomy granted to the village
assemblies. Cholas were called founding fathers of local self governments. Perundrum was
the Secretariat under the Cholas, headed by Alainayakam (Chief Secreatory).
Village Adminstration was constituted by:

1. Ur- a common village settlement for all castes.
2. Agrahara – village settlement of Brahmins.
3. Brahmadeya – villages around the temples.
4. Nagara – settlements of merchants.
Sabha was the Legislative Assembly. Elections were held for the village executive
committees electing atleast 30 members by means of lottery system. The Executive
Committee was answerable to Sabha and would be in office for three years. The most
important function of the executive committee was water distribution.
The Uttaramerur inscription talks about election code- Candidates aged between 35yrs –
70yrs, educated, men of integrity and morals, first time contestants and regular tax payers
were eligible to contest elections. Disqualifications included criminal background, men with
immoral character and sons of Devadasis. Women were not allowed to contest elections.
Chola Society:
Sanskritisation process began with Cholas. Attempt was made by the members of the lower
class to imitate upper class customs to enhance their social status thus leading to upward
mobility of lower classes. This argument was first stated by M.N. Srinivas.
Devadasi system (temple dancing girls) also started during this period.
The custom of Veeragal also started which refered to the class of warriors sacrificing their
lives for the sake of king.
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Chola Economy:
They had prosperous trade with Persia on the West Coast and China on the East Coast. The
prominent guilds under the Cholas were Manigramam (the guild of weavers), Nanadasi (the
mobile merchants) and Telekai (the guild of oil merchants). Veedhi was the settlement of
weavers. The gold coin Varaha was in large circulation.
Chola Culture:
The Dravida’ style of temple architecture reached its perfection under the Cholas. The best
example is the Brihadeswara temple or Rajarajeswaram at Tanjore. The Chola craftsmen
excelled in the art of making bronze images of Natarajaswamy. The image of Nature actually
belonged to the Chidambaram temple.
Kamban translated Ramayan into Tamil and Jayamgond wrote Kalimgattu Parni that
discusses the conquest of Kalinga by Kulottanga Chola.
REGIONAL KINGDOMS / DYNASTIES:

5. Iliyas Shahi Dynasty of Bengal
It was founded by Shamsuddin Iliyas and its capital city was Pondua. Allahuddin Hussain
Shah, the greatest of the dynasty, conquered Kamarupa i.e Assam. He was thoroughly
influenced by
Chaitanya Prabhu and regarded himself as an incarnation of Lord Krishna. He took the titles
of Jagatbhushan and Nirupatitilak. Akbar conquered Bengal in 1570 A.D. by killing the
Governor Dawood Khan of Bengal.
2. Jaunpur
It became independent in 1398 A.D. under the leadership of Malik Sawar Kwaja Jahan. He
took the title of Shah-us-Sharq (the king of the East). Ibrahim Shan Sharqi was the greatest of
the dynasty. Barbak Shah, the son of Bahlul Lodi conquered Jaunpur back.
3. Malwa
It was founded by Zafar Khan: Mandu (M.P.) was the capital city. Md. Khilji II was the
greatest ruler of the dynasty. He constructed a Keerti Stambha (victory pillar) at Mandu, in
the memory of his victories against Rana Kumbha of Mewar and Bahadur Bazbahadur.
4. Gujarat
It was ruled by Bahadurshahi dynasty, founded by Zafar Khan in 1398 A.D. He took the title
of Bahadur Shah. Mohd Shah Begara or Mohd Shah. I, the greatest of the dynasty,
constructed the Mohanmmadabad and Mustafabad. He was the first Indian to challenge the
Portugues but was defeated in the Battle of Diu by the first Portuguese Governor, Fransisco
de Almeida in 1509 A.D. He was the Sultan with unusual habits. Udayan, his court poet
wrote Rajavinoda, a biography on Mohd Shah. Ahmed Shah I founded Ahmedabad.
Akbar conquered Gujarat in 1572 A.D.
5. Rajputana: MewarIt was ruled by Sisodia dynasty founded by Rana Hammirdev against
Mohd Khilji II of Malwa and Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. The victory pillar at Chittor was
constructed by Rana Sanga. Rana Sangram Singh or Rana Sanga, the greatest of the dynasty
was at last defeated by Babar in the Battle of Kanwa in 1527 A.D.
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Marwar:
It was ruled by Gehlot dynasty founded by Chunda. King Jodha founded Jodhpur. Rana
Maldeo, the powerful ruler of the dynasty, was defeated by Sher Shah in the Battle of
Kalanjir in 1545 A.D.
6. Kashmir:
It was ruled by Shahmirza dynasty. During the times of Sikander Shah, for the first time
Hindus were outnumbered by the Muslims. He founded a separate department Sheikh-ul-
Islam to promote Islam and banned the custom of Sati. Jain-ul-Abedin was the actual name of
Shahi Khan, who was popular as “Akbar of Kashmir.” He renovated Hindu temples, banned
cow slaughter, encouraged Sati and got Mahabharat translated into Persian by appointing
Srinara and Jonadeva (court poets who also continued the Rajatarrangini). He also
constructed the Wular Lake and Jaina tank in Kashmir.
VIJAYNAGAR EMPIRE –(1336 A.D.)

It was founded at the instance of Swami Vidyaranya on the banks on River Tungabhadra.
Hampi was the capital city of the empire. It was ruled by 4 dynasties.
1. Sangama (1336 A.D. – 1485 A.D.)
2. Saluva (1485 A.D. – 1505 A.D.).
3. Tuluva (1505 A.D. – 1570 A.D.)
4. Araveeti (1570 A.D. – 1643 A.D.)
Sangama Dynasty:
Hariharara and Bukka were the court commanders of Prataparudra of Warangal (Kakatiya
dynasty). At the foundation of the empire, they were in the court of Veeraballala of the
Hoysala dynasty.
→ Harihara became the 1st ruler of the dynasty. He was defeated by Allahuddin Hassan of the
Bahmani Empire. The main cause for the frequesnt wars between Bahmanis and Vijaynagar
empire was the control over Raichur Doab, the land between Krishna and Tungabhadra
rivers.
→ Bukka was the second king and sent a delegation of merchants to China. His daughter-in-
law Gangadevi wrote Maduravijayam (the conquest of Madura by her husband
Veerakamparaya).
→ Devaraya I constructed a dam on river Tungabhadra at Hampi. According to Persian

chronicler Ferista, he was defeated by Tajuddin Feroz, the Bahmani Sultan in the Battle of
Mudgal, fought for the sake of Nahal who was a beautiful daughter of a blacksmith of
Raichur.
→ Devaraya II, the greatest ruler of the dynasty was the 1 st Vijayanagar king to conquer
Ceylon. He employed Muslims to train the Vijayanagar cavalry. He also constructed a
mosque for Muslims at Humpi.
The Italian traveler Nicholo Conti and Persian ambassador Abdur Razak visited Hampi in
1442 A.D. and 1443 A.D. respectively.
Praudadevaraya, wrote the famous Mahanataka Sudhanidhi, a text on music. His literary
assembly was called Mutyasala (Palace of Pearls).
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- Virupaksha II was the last of the dynasty; he was deposed by Saluva Narasimha.
Saluva Dynasty:
It was founded by Saluvanarasimha. He was the chief patron of Annamacharya who has
composed maximum number of songs in World literarture (39000 Kirtans).
Veerananarasimha was the last king of the dynasty.
Immudinarasimha was his son, who was killed by Tuluva’s son Veeranarasimha
(Veeranarasimha Krishnadevaraya Achyuta Sadashiv).
Tuluva Dynasty:
It was founded by Tuluva Narasanayaka.
Sri Krishnadevaraya, second son of Narasa was the greatest in the whole history of the South.
• In 1509 A.D., he defeated Adil Shaha of Bijapur and took the title of
Yavanarajasthapanacharya.
In 1510 A.D., he entered into a treaty with the Portuguese governor Albuquerque. Portuguese
agreed to supply horses and 13rganized from Persia, and to train Vijayanagar artillery. In
return,
Krishnadevaraya promised to shift Goa from the control of Sultan of Bijapur to the
Portuguese.
• In 1511 A.D., he defeated Prataparudra Gajapti of Kalinga, destroyed capital city Cuttack, -
married his daughter Annapurna and installed victory pillars at Simhachalam and Patnur.
Battle of Talikota Or Rakasi – Tangadi Battle fought in 1565 A.D.
It ended the giory of Vijayanagar Enipire. It was a battle between the forces of Vijayanagar
commanded by Aliya Rama Raya and the Bahmani confederacy commanded by Hussain. The
main cause of the war was Aliya’s foreign policy of divide and rule. Except Berar, all the
other four states of the confederacy participated. Sadashivaraya was the king of Hampi during
the war.
Araveeti Dynasty:
It was founded by Tirumalaraya, the brother of Aliya Ranaraya Venkatapatiraya II, the
greatest of the dynasty. He defied Akbar and shifted the capital city from Chandragiri to
Vellore. He also constructed a church for the Portuguese at Vellore. In 1643 A.D., the
dynasty ended when Mir Jumla, the PM of Goleonda (Hyderabad) occupied Vellore.
Vijaynagar Administration:
Rayasam was the Secretariat which was headed by Chief Secreatory Mahakaranikam.
The ‘Nayaka’system was the system of civil servants. The Nayakas discharged civil and
military functions on behalf of the emperor and in return were given lands called Amaramas.
At the village level, a system of 12 village functionaries was introduced called Ayagars. They
were given rent free lands called Mirasi (for their own subsistence). Athavana was the
revenue department which was headed by Mahanayakacharya (Finance Minister).
Kandаchera was the military department headed by Chief Commander called
Mahadandnayaka. Kavaliga was the police officer who was incharge of internal security.
Vijayanagar Society:
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Fernao Nuniz, a Portuguese traveler gives detailed account of Vijayanagar society and gives a
graphic description about Sati and talks about prostitution. He refers to a tax called
Seethasunkam on brothel houses. Krishnadevaraya abolished the system called Kanyasulkam
i.e., the system of purchasing brides.
Vijayanagar Economy:
Bhatkal on the West Coast and Masola or Machilipatnam on the East Coast (A.P.) were the
two important ports. Horses were imported from Persia. Amuktamalyada, a text written by
Krishnadevaraya talks about horse trade.
Kalankari textiles (printed cloth) were exported from Masola.
Golconda and Vajrakarur were famous for diamond industry.
The popular guilds were Panchamavaru (association of five craftsmen) and Kaikollas (guild
of weavers).
Land tax that was the major source of economy was called Siat. Nuniz tells us that it was
9/10th of the produce.
Vijayanagar Culture:
The Vijayanagar style of architecture is characterized by:
6. Kalyanamandapas which were the marriage halls within the temple complex.
2. Ammangudi refered to the temple for the consort of the lord. Both were built within the
temple complex.
Krishnadevaraya constructed the Hazar Rama temple in Hampi with 1000 Ramayan pictures.
Padma Mahal that was constructed by him in Hampi is the best example of Indo-Islamic
architecture.
Art and Music:

The Carnatic music tradition developed during this age.
Swami Vidyaranya wrote Sangeetha Saraswam.
Mahanataka Sudhanidhi writtin by Praudadevaraya also deals with music.
The trio of Carnatic music – Muthuswamy Dikshitar, Shyamashastri and Thygaraj belonged
to the court of Tanjore.
Dance:
Bharatanatyam, the most popular dance form was introduced by Bharata Muni. He wrote
Natyashastra which consists of the deatailed exposition of Bharatnatyam. The other popular
dance forms were –Kuchipudi, introduced by Siddendra Yogi; Perininatyam (the tribal dance
form of Katatiyas); Yakshaganam (the dance form with the themes exclusively derived from
Bhagavatam).
Literature:
Vijayanagar age is considered the golden age of Telegu and Kannada literature. Astadiggajas
meaning the eight great scholars/literary giants were present in the court of Krishnadevaraya.
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Allasani peddana wrote Manucharitra (The birth of Manu). He was called the ‘father of
Prabanda yuga’.
The literary assembly of Krishnadevaraya was called Bhuvanavijayam. He was a great

scholar in Sanskrit and wrote the popular texts called Madalasa Charitra, Ushaparinayam
Styavadhuparinayam and Jambavatiparinayam and Sakalakathas (the essence of all stories).
Amuktamalyada, written by Krishnadevaraya in Telugu is rated as one of the

Panchamahakavyas (five great literary works of Telugu literature). He was also called
Andhrabhoja for his literary contribution to Telugu literature.
BAHMANI EMPIRE:
It was founded by the chief tax collectors called Saddamamla who revolted against Mohd bin
Tughlaq at Devagiri in 1346 A.D., under the leadership of Zafar Khan. He took the title of
Sultan Alauddin Hassan Bahman Gangu. Their first capital city was Gulbarga and second
capital city was Bidar. Ahmed Shah I shifted the capital city to Bidar. Azari, the Persian poet
wrote Bahmannamah in the court of Ahmed Shah.
Mohammad Gawan:
He was the most popular Prime Minister of Mohd Shah III of the Bahmani empire. He
expanded the empire and divided it into 8 tarafs (administrative units) instead of four as in
earlier times. He founded a Madarasa at Bidar on the model of Samarkand University of Iran
with a library having 2000 books. His revenue reforms even inspired Raja Todar Mal. Gawan
was executed at Kondapalli in 1498 A.D.
Bahmani Confederacy included 5 States:

7. Bijapur ruled by Adil Shahi dynasty. Founded by Adil Shah, it was the biggest and
the most powerful State in the confederacy. Ibrahim Adil Shah was the greatest ruler,
called Jagatguru for his secular outlonk. Aurangzeb conquered Bijapur first in 1656
A.D. and later again in 1686 A.D.
2. Bidar – It was ruled by Baridshahi dynasty founded by Kasim Barid.
3. Berar – It was ruled by Imadshahi Dynasty found by Futullah Imad-ul-Mulk. It was the
smallest and the weakest of the confederacy.
4. Ahmednagar- It was ruled by Nizamsbahi dynasty founded by Nizam Khan. Rani Chand
Bibi was the most popular woman ruler. She was defeated by Abul Fazl sent by Akbar in
1600 A.D. It was the first state conquered by Mughals in the South among the confederacy.
Malik Ambar was the most popular dewan of Ahmednagar.
It was the first state to introduce guerilla warfare in South.
It was also the first to introduce a Council of eight ministers called Astapradhans.
5. Golconda was ruled by Qutub Shahi dynasty. It was founded by Quli Qutub Shah. Ibrahim
Quli Qutub Shah was the first great king and participated in Talikota Battle. Mohd Quli
Qutub Shah was the greatest ruler of the dynasty. He constructed the famous Charminar and
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Mecca mosque in the city Bhagyanagar (founded in memory of Bhagmati, a Hindu woman).
Aurangzeb conquered Golconda in 1687 A.D. by defeating Abul Hasan Tanisha.
MUGHAL EMPIRE (1526 A.D.-1857 A.D.)

Babur
His actual name was Zahiruddin Mohammed, son of Omar Sheikh Mirza, the king of
Ferghana in Afghanistan. His ambition was to conquer Samarkand, the seat of Timur. In 1527
A.D., Babur defeated Rana Sanga in the Battle of Kanwa. In the Battle of Chanderi (1528
A.D.), Babur defeated Mediniroy. In the Battle of Gogra in 1529 A.D., Babur defeated Mohd
Lodi, brother of Ibrahim Lodi and conquered Bengal. Babur wrote his memories in Turkish
language. It was called Tuzak-i-Babari or Babamamah.
Humayun (1530 A.D. – 1555 A.D.):

Humayun means the most fortunate’. In 1537 A.D., he conquered Gujarat. His arch enemy
was Sher Shah. Humayun defeated Sher Shah Suri in the Battle of Chunar in 1539 A.D. Sher
Shah defeated Humayun for the first time in the Battle of Chausa in 1540 A.D. and for the
second time in the Battle of Bilgram (1540 A.D.) The Mughals lost Delhi in the Battle of
Bilgram for the first time. Humayun took shelter in the court of Rana Prasad of Amarkot. In
1542 A.D., Humayun defeated Sikandar Shah of the Suri dynasty in the Battle of Sarhind and
got back Delhi. He fell from his personal library at Dinpanah and died.
Akbar – (1556 A.D. – 1605 A.D.):

Second Battle of Panipat (October 1556 A.D.) was fought between Akbar and Hemu. Hemu
took the title of ‘Raja Vikramajeet’. Akbar was declared the Emperor of Hindustan at
Kalanoor in Sind without being coronated by his tutor Bairam Khan. The Mughals got back
Delhi in the second Battle of Panipat by killing Hemu. Upto 1562 A.D., the government was
called ‘Purdah Government’ as Maham Anaga Begum, the first wife of Humayun, Hamida
Banu Begum and Bairam khan managed the administration.
AKBAR’S CONQUESTS:
In 1562 A.D., Ranj Durgavati of Gondwana was defeated.
In 1564 A.D, Baz Bahadur of Malwa was defeated.
In 1970 A.D., Dawood Khan of Bengal was killed.
In 1572 A.D., Muzaffar Shah of Gujarat was defeated.
In 1585 A.D., Akbar conquered Kashmir defeating Md. Padshah.
In 1600 A.D., Rani Chand Bibi of Ahmednagar was defeated by Abul Fazl who sent by
Akbar.
This was the last conquest of Akbar.
Akbar’s Rajput Policy:

In 1567 A.D., Akbar defeated Rana Udaya Singh of Mewar. The famous Battle of Haldighati
was fought in 1567 A.D. between Maharana Pratap and Raja Man Singh who was sent by
Akbar.
The Sisodias of Mewar continued to defy the Mughals upto 1615 A.D. The only State that
remained unconquered by Akbar was Mewar.
AKBAR’S RELIGIOUS POLICY:

In 1562 A.D., Akbar banned forced conversion.
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In 1563 A.D., the pilgrim tax on Hindus was abolished.

In 1564 A.D., Jizia tax was abolished.
In 1575 A.D., Akbar constructed Ibadatkhana at Fatehupur Sikri for religious discourses and
discussions to be conducted every Thrusday.
Akbar invited Father Monsuratte and Father Aquinois to speak on Christianity, Pt.
Puroshottam on Hinduism, Jainasena Suri on Jainism and Raza on Parsi religion.
In 1579 A.D., he issued his famous decree of infallibility” called Mahazir or Mahzarnama. It
was drafted by Sheikh Mubarak. With the decree, Akbar became Mir-i-Adil (Chief
Interpretor of Koran). In 1582 A.D., Akbar founded a new faith called Dif-i-illahi. It was also
called Tauhid-iillahi meaning Universal Faith. Its main theme Sul-i-khul interpreted as ‘peace
and harmony’, was introduced for the first time by Abdul Latif, the teacher of Akbar. Din-i-
ilahi was openly criticized by Raja Bhagwan Das.
Jahangir (1605 A.D. – 1628 A.D.):

His pet name was Sheikh Baba. He hung the ‘bell of justice’ in Agra Fort. He executed his
son Khusrau and also the fifth Sikh guru Arjun Dev for supporting him. Mehr-un-nisa begum
was given the title of “Noorjahan’ and she became popular as Padshah Begum. She founded
her own group called junta consisting of herself, her father Mirza Ghiaz Beg (Itamad-ud-
Daula) and her brother Asaf Khan.
Khurram (Shahjahan) made Rana Amar Singh of Mewar accept Mughal suzerainty in 1615
A.D. In 1616 A.D., Khurram conquered Ahmadnagar and was given the title ‘Shahjahan’.
In 1622 A.D., Persians occupied Kandahar and the Mughals lost Kandahar forever. Jahangir
died at Lahore and was buried at Shahdra near Lahore.
Shahjahan (1628 4.D-1658 A.D)):

In 1629 A.D., Gujarat and Deccan famine resulted in the loss of men and material.
In 1630 A.D., Portuguese in Hoogly revolted and were driven away from Hoogly by Kasim
_Khan, the Governor of Bengal.
In 1631 A.D., Mumtaz died.
Civil War:
It was fought between Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Shahjahan and Aurangzeb, the third
son. Begum Jahan Ara supported Dara and Roshan Ara supported Aurangzeb. The secular
Dara followed Qadri Sufi Order and translated Upanishads into Persian whereas Aurangzeb
followed Naqsh Bandi order.
Aurangzaeb and his alliance with the fourth son Murad defeated the imperial armies
commanded by Dara and Raja Jaswant Singh in the Battles of Varmat and Samugarh in 1658
A.D. Shahjahan was imprisoned on the charges of misusing public money. He died in 1665
A.D. Aurangzeb defeated Dara for the third time in the Battle of Deorai, performed
coronation twice and came to power with the title ‘Alamgir’ meaning ‘King of the world’.
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Aurangzeb (1658 A.D – 1707 A.D.): After coming to power, Aurangzeb brought about
many changes. He abolished the ‘Kalimas (inscribing Quranic verses on coins). Mohitisib,
the royal censor officer was entrusted with the responsibility of enforcing Koran.
The customs duties were fixed at 2.5% for Muslims and 5% for Hindus.
In 1669 A.D, he ordered for the destruction of temples. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple and
Keshavraya temple at Mathura were the prominent ones to be destroyed.
In 1679 A.D. Jizia was reimposed.
He abolished both, vocal and instrumental music. He also restrained court astrologer and
historians, banned celebration of Diwali and Persian Navaroz festival.
REVOLTS:
1. The Bundelas were the first to revolt against Mughal land revenue policy under the
leadership of Chatrasal.
2. Satnamis, a peasant tribe of Haryana also revolted against the revenue policy.
3. The Jats revolted under the leadership of Gokul for the first time and later continued the
revolt under the leadership of Churamal and Badan Singh. They founded an independent
empire called Bharatpur.
4. The Sikhs revolted under the leadership of Guru Gobind Singh in 1675 A.D. The ninth
Sikh guru Tegh Bahadur was executed.
5. The Rajput rebellion: In 1679 A.D., Raja Jaswant Singh died without a successor.
Aurangzeb refused to accept his declared son, Raja Ajit Singh as the ruler of Marwar. Rajputs
revolted under the leadership of Raja Durga Das. Prince Akbar sent by Aurangzeb revolted
against Aurangzeb and finally took shelter in the court of Shambuji, son of Shivaji. In 1681
A.D., Aurangzeb left Agra, came down to Deccan and remained in Deccan till his death.
6. Other expeditions- In 1686 A.D., he conquered Bijapur.
In 1687 A.D., he conquered Golconda.

In 1689 A.D., he killed Sambhuji.
In 1700 A.D., he defeated Rajaram, second son of Shivaji but he failed to suppress Maratha
movement.
He died in 1707 A.D., at Ahmednagar and was buried at Aurangabad.
Anglo- Mughal realtions under Aurangzeb:

In 1690 A.D., Aurangzeb declared war on English and captured their settlements. In 1690
A.D., he conferred a ‘farman’ on the English East Indian Company with certain terms and
conditions.
MUGHAL ADMINISTRATION:
Sources
1. Ain-i-Akbari written by Abul Fazal deals with Akbar’s administration.
2. Akbamamah, also written by Abul Fazal deals with Akbar’s administration.
3. Muntaqab-ul-Tawarikh by Mullah Badauni deals with Akbar’s religious policy and its
critique.
4. Iqbalnamah Jahangiri written by Mutamad Khan deals with Jahangir’s administration.
5. Padshahnamah written by Abdul Hamid Lahori deals with Shahjahan’s administration.
6. Muntakab-ul-Lubab by Khafi Khan deals with the administration of Aurangzeb.
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Central Government Administration:

Diwan was the Finance Minister assisted by Mir-i-mal (Royal Exchequer) and Mir-i-Taan (in
charge of Crown lands called Khalisa lands).
Mir Bakshi (Chief Commander)
Mir Saman (in charge of royal palace)
Mir-i-Tuzak (in charge of royal ceremonies)
Mir-i-Dakchowki (Post master)
Waqa-i-Nawis (Royal Correspondent)
Harkhara (Royal Spy)
Mohitsib (Censor Officer)
The empire was divided into provinces called Subats, each of which was headed by
Subedaar/Sipahsalar from the times of Akbar. Subahs were further divided into districts
called Sarkars, headed by Fauzdar and assisted by a revenue officer called Poddar and a Qazi
for judicial administration. Kotwal was the officer-in-charge of the city administration.
Paraganah was the group of villages, administered by Amil (Chief Revenue Officer). At the
village level, the Hindu aristocracy continued as before.
Revenue Administration:
Akbar initially followed Sher Shah’s revenue systems, particularly the Zabt System. Raja
Todal Mal was made the Revenue Minister of Akbar and was known as ‘Diwan-i-Ashraf’.
Todar Mal introduced ‘Bandobast’, a revenue assessment system classified into four
categories: Polaj (best tract), Parauti (second best), Checher (third grade) and Banjar (least
fertile). On the basis of the average produce for the last 10 years, the category of land was
decided and accordingly tax was levied. Dastur-ul-Amal was the price list for every area’s
agricultural commodities. Akbar appointed supervisors for revenue collection called Karoris
at Paraganah level.
Military Administration:
The Mansabdari system was the unique admistrative system under the Mughals. Though
introduced by Babur, it was perfected by Akbar. The Mansabdars were the civil servants
selected on merit. They discharged civil, military and judicial functions on behalf of the
State/Emperor and were given land called Jagirs. The highest rank in Mansabdari of above
5000 was conferred hy Akbar on Raia Man Singh and Azizuddin Kuka (11,000 Sawars).
Mir-i-Atish was in-charge of artillery.
Mir-i-Bahari was in-charge of Navy.
Mir-i-Askan was in-charge of the military offences.
Judicial Administration:
Department of Judiciary called Qazi-ul-qazat was headed by a Chief Justice known as Sadr-
usSudur. He disposed justice on behalf of the king. Dharmashalas, the rest house for beggars
were set up in different parts of the empire.
SHER SHAH:
His actual name was Farid. He was the Jagirdar of Sasaram, Khawaspur and Tanda and was
given the title of Sher Shah by Babar Khan Lohani who was the ruler of Bihar.
He founded the Sur dynasty in Delhi after defeating Humayun.
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His reforms:
8. He introduced a new revenue system called ‘Zabt System’ which became the basis of
Raja.
Todar Mal system of revenue collection.
2. He was the first to introduce the Ryotwari System.
3. He developed communication system like GT Road from Sonargaon to Rohtasgarh, Agra
to Jodhpur, Jodhpur to Sasaram and Lahore to Multan.
4. He introduced the most standard rupee called Dam which was accepted even by the
Britishers.
5. He constructed Purana Qila in Delhi and his own tomb in Sasaram.
6. Abbas Khan Sherwani wrote Tarikh-i-Shershahi on Sher Shah’s administration.
He died in the Battle of Kalinjar in 1545 A.D. after defeating Rana Maldev.
INDO-ISLAMIC CULTURE:
Bhakti MovementThe movement emerged in response to the challenges posed by Islam. It
developed under two different schools of thought
1. Nirgunabhakti which believed in formless worship. It was introduced first by Adi Shankara
and later followed by Kabir, Guru Nanak, Malak Das, Dadu Dayal, Birban and Ghora.
2. Sagunabhakti believed in the worship of form. It believed that God is the biggest
manifestation of everything perfect. It was championed by the Vaishnava philosophers like
Ramanuja, Nimbaraka, Madhva, Vallabha, Meera Bai, Chaitanya, Tulsidas, Surdas and
Sundaradas.
All the reformers followed a defensive policy of reforming Hinduism except Swami
Vidyarana, his brothers Sayana and Parthasarathy.
ADISHANKARA / SHANKARACHARYA:
He was born at Kaladi in Kerala and became a saint at the age of five. He was the disciple of
Govindacharya. He wrote commentaries on Brahmasutras. His popular works were
Vivekachuramani and Saundaryalahari. He founded the philosophy of Advaitasiddhant which
upheld Sanatan Dharma. To preach and protect the dharma, he found Ashramas/Mathas at
Sringeri in Karnataka, Dwaraka in Gujarat, Puri and Badrinath. He died at the age of 32. The
followers of Shankara were called Smratas.
RAMANUJA ACHARYA:
He was born at Sriperumbudur. He was the disciple of Yamuna Muni and Vedprakash. He
found the philosophy called Visistha Advaita and preached Vaishnavism. He was banished
from Sriperumbudur by Kulottanga Chola. He wrote Srivashya and was the head of
Srirangam Vaishnava Math.
NIMBARAKA:
He was the disciple of Ramanuja. He was the first to introduce Radhamadhav Cult which was
centered on the worship of Radha and Madhav. He founded the philosophy called Dwita
advaita on balance between Advaita and Visista advaita.
MADHYA ACHARYA:
He was born in Udipi..He was the first to compose commentaries of Brahmasutras in
Kannada language. He founded the philosophy called Dwita Siddhanta.
VALLABHA ACHARYA:
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His actual name was Achinita Bhadra. He was the first to preach and promote Krishna bhakti
on the basis of Maha Bhagwad Purana. He founded the philosophy Shuddha advaita which
believed in absolute union. He prescribed Pushtimarga as the means for salvation (extreme
devotion to God).
RAMANAND:
He was the most popular Bhakti reformer from Uttar Pradesh. He was the first to preach
Ramabhakti and the first to preach in Hindi. Also he was the first reformer to accept disciples
from the lower castes. His disciples were Dhana (a Jat farmer); Sena (a Barber); Ravi Das (a
Cobbler) and Kabir (a weaver). He composed Ananda bhasya.
KABIR:
Born at Prayag, he was the most popular Bhakti reformer. He was the first reformer to preach
Universal Religion and Hindu-Muslim unity. He was the most important disciple of
Ramanand and also accepted a Sufi Saint, Pir Taqvi as his Guru. He was persecuted by
Sikander Lodi for preaching Hindu-Muslim unity. The sayings of Kabir are popular as
Dohas. Bizaks were the compiled works of Dohas.
The followers of Kabir were called Kabirapanthis.
GURU NANAK:
Born at Talwandi, he was influenced by Kabir. ‘Sach Akhand’ (Ultimate Truth) was the main
theme of his teachings. Nanak preached Universal Brotherhood and Monotheism. The
followers of Nanaks called themselves ‘Sikh’ (followers of Nanak).
MEERA BAI:
The most popular woman Bhakti reformer, Meera, was born in Kurki in Rajasthan. She
belonged to the family of Sisodias and was the wife of Rana Bhojraj. She was the first to
introduce Giridhara Gopala Cult of Brindavan and also the first to introduce Bhajans in
Bhakti moyement.
CHAITANYA:
He was the most popular Bhakti reformer from Bengal. He was bom at Nabadwip (Nadia).
He was the disciple of Keshav Bharti. His other names were Gouranga and Vishwambar. He
was the first to preach Vaishnavism in Bengal and Orissa. Puri was the main centre of his
activities and he was first to introduce Kirtans in Bhakti movement. He died in a state of
ecstasy.
TULASIDAS:
He was a contemporary of Akbar and he wrote the all time great Ramcharit Manas.
SURDAS:
He preached Krishnabhakti and wrote Sursagar.
SUNDARDAS:
He wrote Sundaravilasa that deals with six Indian philosophical systems.
DADU DAYAL:
Born in the community of weavers at Ahmedabad, he preached Nirgunabhakti. His teachings
were compiled in the form of Dadu Dayaram Ki Bani.
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BIRBAN: Bom at Karnal in Haryana in the community of farmers, he preached

Nirgunabhakti and emphasized on Satyam or Truth. His followers were called Satnamis.
Pothi is the sacred text of Satnamis.
SHANKAR DEV:
He was the first to preach Vaishnavism in Brahmaputra Valley (Assam). He was the founder
of Eka Saranadharma and Veerapurushamarga (to defend one’s faith).
Maratha Bhakti Reform Movement:

The main theme of the movement was Maratha-dharma, which essentially meant the
protection of Maratha culture. Its ultimate aim was to secure an independent state for the
Marathas called Swaraj.
GNANESHWAR:
The first and earliest of Maratha reformers wrote a commentary in Sanskrit on Bhagwad Gita
called Gnaneswar, popular as Maratha Bhadwad Gita and also called Bhavardha Deepika.
ΕΚΝΑΤΗ:
He was the first Maratha reformer to emphasize on Marathi language and also got
Gnaneswari –translated into Marathi.
NAMDEV:
He was a 22rgani vy profession (was earlier a dacolt). He emphasized on cultural unity of the
Marathas by introducing a tradition called Mahapurusha Sampradaya (worshipping the great
saints).
TUKARAM:
He was the greatest Marathi bhakti reformer, who made popular Vittob Cult (worshipping
Vitalaswamy.of Pandaripur). He composed devotional songs on Vitalaswamy called
Abhangs.
RAMDAS:
As the Guru of Shivaji, he inspired Shivaji for founding Swaraj. The messages of Guru
Ramdas were compiled in the form of the text called Dasabodha.
GHORA:
A mali (gardener) by profession, he preached monotheism.
BAHINA BAI:
Sister of Tukaram, she was the most popular woman Bhakti reformer in Maratha movement.
She promoted Vitalaswamy cult.
SUFI MOVEMENT: (The word suf meant wool which implied simplicity)
Sufism can be defined as Islamic mysticism. Its main theme was Wahad-ul-Wajud (Unity of
God). It developed first in Iraq. The first Sufi saint was Begum Rabia of Bashera in Iraq. Sufi
orders were called Silsilas. Maximum number of orders were found in Afghanistan which
spread to India.
SILSILAS:
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9. CHISTIIt was founded by Sheikh Abdul Chisti. Owever, it was introduced in India by
Sheikh Moinuddin Chisti. His dargah is at Ajmer. Qutubuddin Bakhtiar Kaki was the
chief disciple of Moinuddin. Il tutmish dedicated Qutub Minar to Bakhtiar Kaki.
2. Sheikh Nizamuddin was the most popular Sufi saint in India. Amir Khusro, the greatest
musician and literay giant was also the disciple of Sheikh Nizamuddin.
A system called Nadasampradaya was followed which meant burying disciples near guru as
one family.
Sheikh Salim Chisti was the last great saint of Chisti order. He was held in great respect by
Akbar.
Qamkhana were hermitages of Chisti saints outside the city.
2. SUHRAWARDI:
It was founded by Shihabuddin Shuhrawardi and introduced in India by Bhauddin. It was the
richest order and very soon became unpopular.
3. FIRADAUSIA:
It was the only Sufi order which was founded and developed within India. Founded by
Sharafuddin, it was confined to Bihar. He composed Maqtubat and Mulfazat literature (it
dealt with the lives and teachings of Sufi Saints).
4. QADRI This most secular order was founded by Sheikh Jilani Qadri. Dara Shikoh, son of
Shahjanan followed this order.
5. NAQSHBANDI It was founded by Sheikh Biqabullah but Sheikh Niyamtulla was the
greatest scholar in this School of thought which was most conseryative. Aurangzeb followed
this order.
INDO-ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE:
The Islamic style is called Dome and Arch method. The native Hindu style that was prevalent
during that time is called Slab and Beam method. The other aspects of Islamic style were
huge buildings with lofty gateways and wide entrances. The Muslims also introduced floral
designs. They borrowed decorative elements like Kalasa, Swastik and Lotus from the Hindus.
Hindus appropriated the domes and arches.
Architectural development took place in two stages:

10. Imperial Architecture: It is witnessed in Delhi, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The
architecture reflects the personal taste and interest of the Sultan and Mughal Badshah.
Qutubuddin Aibak constructed Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, the first pure Islamic
construction and Adhai-din-ka-Jhopra (made by destroying a monastery). It was the
place where he gave darshan at Ajmer. He laid the foundation for Qutub Minar to
commemorate the victory of Islam on Indian soil. He could complete only the first-
two storeys. The remaining was completed by Iltutmish and dedicated to Bakhtiar
Kaki. In Qutub Minar, black limestone was used. Sanskrit versus were found there.
Balban constructed Lal Mahal in Delhi. The simple Islamic style became decorative and
grand under Alauddin Khilji. He constructed Alai Darwaza, an entrance to Qutub Minar;
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Hauz-i-Alai; Jamat Khana Masjid and also a city called Siri Delhi (this was the first time
Delhi was expanded).
Under Tughlaqs, for the first time, thick sloping walls were built (for protection against
extreme weather and for strength). They made extensive use of cheaply available grey
sandstones. Ghiazuddin Tughlaq 24rganized24d the city of Tughlaqabad. Md. Bin Tughlaq
constructed Swarga Dwara on the banks of river Ganga. Feroz Shah Tughlaq constructed five
cities apart from Feroz Shah Kotla, the tomb of his finance minister Telangani and Hauz-i-
Khas in Delhi. Significant changes in architecture took place under the Lodis. They were the
first to construct structures on grafted plateforms. They were the first to construct double
domed structures, angular and octagonal structures and structures in Garden setting (e.g. Lodi
Gardens in Delhi). The best example of Lodi architecture is the Jamnat Khana Masjid
constructed by Sikandar Lodi in Agra.
Mughal Architecture:
It reflected basically the grand Persian style. Babur was responsible for Noor-ul-Afshan
gardens in Kabul.
Humayun’s tomb in Delhi was constructed by his wife Salima Begum. It was the first
structure in India reflecting the Mughal style.
Akbar was the real founder of Mughal architecture. His attempt was to synthesize the native
styles with the grand Islarnic styles particulary in his Mahal construction. Akbar was
influenced by Buddhist Stupas. In Agra, he completed the fortification and constructed
Akbari Mahal, Jahangiri Mahal and Birbal Mahal. Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas in Agra
were also built by him.
Fatehpur Sikri:
It was 24rganize a Jain settlement. However, Akbar constructed the Mori Masjid and the
tomb of Sheikh Chisti. The secular constructions here were Buland Darwaza constructed in
1572 A.D. to mark his victory against Gujarat. In the construction, Akbar used a new
technique called half purple dome borrowed from Persia. Jodha Bai Palace, Mariam Mahal
and Panch Mahal were the other structures.
Jahangir constructed the tomb of his father at Sikandra near Agra. He was responsible for
Shalimar Bagh Gardens in Kashmir. Noorjahan constructed the tomb of Abdur Rahim Kahn,
son of Bairam Khan in Delhi; the tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula (her father) in Agra and tomb of
Jahangir at Shahdra near Lahore.
A new technique called Petradurra (inlaid mosaic work) was introduced for the first time
under Jahangir and was used in Itamad-ud-Daula’s tomb for the first time. It was also the
basis for Taj Mahal.
Shahjahan’s reign was the Golden age in Mughal architecture. He was called Engineer and
the Architect for his technical perfection. In Agra, he constructed Khas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal,
Angoori Bagh, Machehi Mahal, Mausambari and also built Moti Masjid in the Red Fort. Taj
Mahal, built from 1631 A.D. to 1653 A.D., it took 22 years for completion. Till then Mumtaz
Mahal’s coffin was kept in Burhanpur where she was born. It is the only pure white marble
building constructed with an estimated cost of 3 crore Dams. Ustad Isa Khan, the chief
architect of Shahjahan had drawn the plan of Taj. A Venician engineer, Zerimano Verraneo
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was also consulted. In Delhi, Shahjahan constructed the Red Fort and within the fort, Diwan-
i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam and Rang mahal were built.
The Jami Masjid, the biggest mosque of India was also built by him.
Aurangzeb construted the tomb of his queen Raha-ud-Durrani at Aurangabad on the model of
Taj Mahal called Bibi Ka Maqbara (Mini Taj Mahal).
2. Regional / Provincial Architecture:

The Jaunpur School of acrchitecture was developed by the Sharqi dynasty. Its unique aspect
was the absence of minarets. The Ataladevi Masjid, constructed by Ibrahim Shah Sharqi is
the best example.
In Bengal, the Iliyaz Shahi style developed within the capital city Pondua. Its unique aspect
was – that minarets were smaller than the main structure. Sikander Shah constructed Adina
Masjid at Pondua, the biggest mosque in North-East, constructed on the model of the Great
Damascus Masjid (Syria).
In the Bahmani style of architecture, Red Sandstone was extensively used. Very huge domes
were built. Minarets were part of the structure. Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur, constructed by Md.
Adil Shah II, is the world’s second biggest dome.
MUSIC:
The Muslim introduced instruments like Rahab, Shehnai and Sarangi. They borrowed
Mridangam and Nadaswara from the Hindus. Gunwat-ut-Munga is the earliest among the
four forms of music that developed – Drupad, Khayal, Thumri and Tappa. Sultan Hussain
Shah of Jaunpur was the first to introduce Khayal. Feroz Shah Tughlaq got the text
Ragdarpan, that dealt with native music traditions translated into Persian. Raja Man Singh of
Gwalior was responsible for the composition of Mankutuhal, the text that deals with all the
modes of Islamic music. Amir Khusrau, called the ‘Parrot of india’ was the greatest musician
of his times, introduced new rages – Sanam, Ghora and Aiman. Instruments like Sitar and
Tabla were also introduced by him. Qawaali, the devotional from of music also started with
Amir Khusrau.
Baz Bahadur, the king of Malwa and his queen Roopmati were experts in Hindustani music.
Mian Tansen, the greatest musician in the court of Akbar, was an expert in Deepak, Darbani
and Meghamallar ragas. He belonged to the Gwalior Gharana.
Akbar was an expert in playing Nagara (drums). Of all the Mughals, Jahangir composed
maximum number of songs. Shahjahan was the best known singer and was an expert in
Drupad. Jagannath Pandit Roy was the greatest singer in the court of Shahjahan. Tlis son Lal
Khan was given the title “Gunasagar’ by Shahjahan. Auragzeb banned music but was an
accomplished Veena player.
PAINTING:
It started under Humayun. The great Persian Painters in his court were Mir Sayed Ali and
Abdus Samad. They were responsible for the text on Mughal painting Daftar-i-Hamza or
Hamzanamah which contained 1200 paintings. The Mughal painters used green, blue and
gold colours for outlines. The themes of the paintings were either Court proceedings or
palace life. Humayun encouraged more miniatures.
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Akbar was the real founder of Mughal School of painting. Eor him, ‘painting was the means
torealize God’. Khorasan Qul and Farukka Beg were the great Persian painters. Lal, Basava,
Daswant and Mukund were the Hindu painters. A new technique called “Fore Shortening”
was introduced influenced by Renaissance during Akbar’s time. Akbar encoureaged more
frescoes and mural paintings.
During the reign of Jahangir painting received maximum patronage. His mastery in painting
was such that he could name the painter on seeing the painting. Ustad Mansoor was the
greatest painter in the court of Jahangir, popular as the ‘Raphael of the East’. He was good in
drawing birds, animals and natural objects. He was also invited by the Persian emperor. The
two developments under Jahangir were that the life size portraits were drawn for the first time
and the technique of drawing the staright face was introduced for the first time.
LITERATURE:
The Arab historians’ were the first to introduce the tradition of writing chronicles,
autobiographies and regional history. Ardhakathanika, written by Banarsi, a Jain monk was
the first autobiography by an Indian. Hasan Nizami wrote Taj-ul-Mahatir, a text on slave
dynasty. Isami wrote Futuf-us-Salatin, a text on Bahmani Sultans.
Amir Khusrau was the greatest literary giant of his times. He introduced a new literary style
called Sbak-i-Hind by mixing Persian with Hindavi (classical Hindi). He wrote the famous
Mistah-ul-Futah on the conquests of Alauddin Khilji, Futuh-us-Khazain (on Khiljis coming to
power), Tughlaqnama and a collection of five short stories called Khamsa. The story
LailaMajnu is one of the five short stories. In the text called Nusipher, while describing the
beauty of Kashmir, he observed that “the most beautiful place in the Universe is Kashmir”.
Gulbadan Begum, sister of Humayun wrote Humayunnama. Akbar got Mahabharata

translated into Persian and called it Ramzanama.
MARATHA STATE AND CONFEDERACY:

Shivaji (1627 A.D. – 1680 A.D.) was born at Shivner in 1627 A.D. His parents were Shahji
Bhonsle (Sisodia) and Jijabai. Dadani Khondey was the tutor of Shivaji and Samardh
Ramdas, his Guru. At the age of 19, Shivaji became the Jagirdar of Pune. He conquered the
forts of Bijapur – Torna, Kondana, Mahuli and Mahud; constructed the fort Raigarh at Torna
which became his capital city. Chandrakant More, the head of the Muvali tribes was his close
friend. The Sultan of Bijapur sent Afzal Khan against Shivaji. Krishnaji Bhaskar became the
mediator between the two. Shivaji killed Afzal Khan at Pratapgarh and defeated the Mughal
armies sent by Aurangzeb under the leadership of Shasta Khan. In 1664 A.D., he attacked
Suratm, the richest city in 17th Century India. In 1665 A.D., Shivaji was defeated by Raja Jai
Singh sent by Aurangzeb and was forced to sign the Treaty of Purandhar. As per the treaty,
Shivaji surrendered. 22 Mughal forts (out of 35 that he had captured).
Sambhuji, son of Shivaji became the Mughal Mansabdar. Both Shivaji and Sambhuji were to
pay a personal visit to the Emperor. In 1666 A.D., both Shivaji and Sambhuji visited Agra but
they were imprisoned. Raja Ram Singh, son of Jai singh was made the custodian. They
escaped from Agra jail and returned to the Maratha State via Mathura, Allahabad, Varanasi,
Patna, Bhubaneshwar and Telangana. In 1670 A.D., Shivaji attacked Surat for the second
time. Surat lost its importance and Bombay rose to prominence.
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In 1674 A.D., Shivaji declared the formation of Swaraj, performed his coronation and took
the titles ‘Chatrapati’ and Haindava Dharmoddarak. A priest named Gagabhatt officiated the
ceremony. Lohan Nischal Puri, another priest conferred the status of Kshatriya upon Shivaji.
In 1675 A.D., Shivaji conquered Zinzi, Thiruvannamalai and Vellore forts with the co-
operation from the Sultan of Golconda, Abul Hasan Tanisha. In 1680 A.D., Shivaji died of
cancer.
Shivaji’s Administration:
Shivaji was influenced by the famous Wazir of Ahmeadnagar Malik Ambar in his
administration. There were 27 departments at the Central level. Chatrapati was assisted by a
Council of 8 ministers called Astapradhans.
1. Peshwa-PM
2. Amatya – Finance Minister, also known as Majumdar.
3. Mantri-Chronicler; also known as Waqa-i-Navis.
4. Senapati – Chief Commander, also known as Sar-i-Naubath.
5. Sachiva – For internal affairs. He was also known as Shrunavis.
6. Suman – In-charge of external affairs and also known as Dabir.
7. Pandit Rao – In-charge of ceremonies, education and religious affairs, also known as
Danadakshya.
8. Nyayadeesh – In-charge of law.
The last two were exempted from participating in wars.
Swaraj was divided into – Pranth (provinces). Tarafs Paraganahs Gramas (Gaam).
REVENUE ADMINISTRATIONK:
Kathi was the yardstick for measuring the land, first introduced by Malik Ambar. Shivaji first
introduced Ryofwari System and later replaced it with Jagirdari system.
The land tax in Swaraj was initially 30% but later made 40%. The two controversial taxes
collected by Shivaji were Chauth and Sardeshmukhi. Both were colletcted from the Marathas
outside Swaraj. However Chauth was exclusivey from the Maratha states under the control of
Mughals or the Sultan of Bijapur. Sardeshmukhi was from the territories where the influence
of Marathas was felt and their authority acknowledged. Chauth was ¼th of the land lax
whereas Sardeshmukhi was 1/10th of the individual income per annum.
MILITARY ADMINISTRATION:
There were two types of armies:
1. Berzis – Standing or permanent army.
2. Shiledars – Mercemaries.
The military officers were Nayak (10), Hawaldar (50), Jamadar (250), Hazar (1000) and
Panchhazari (5000). Khafi Khan, a Mughal historian says that Shivaji commanded 200
warships stationed at Kolaba. Shivaji suppressed the pirates called Zinziras and Angrias in
the Konkan Coast with his navy.
Shivaji’s Welfare Measures:
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Secularism was the declared State policy. Forced conversions were banned throughout the
empire. Child-marriages and money lending by Marwari money lenders were also banned.
Sambhuji – (1680 A.D. – 1689 A.D.):

He was the first son of Shivaji. He gave shelter to Akbar, who had revolted against
Aurangzeb.
He was killed by Aurangzeb at Sangameswar bank of river Godawari in 1689 A.D. Sahu, son
of Sambhuji was deported to Agra.
Rajaram (1689 A.D. – 1700 A.D.):

For eight years, he took shelter in Zinzi. For the first time, he introduced a new office called
Pratinidhi (representative). He was killed by Aurangzeb in 1700 A.D. at Pratapgarh.
Tarabai (1700 A.D.-1714 A.D.):

She was the wife of Rajaram and the most popular woman leader of the Marathas. In 1707
A.D., Sahu was released by the Mughai emperor Bahadur Shah I. Shah defealed Tarabai in
the Battle of Khed with the support of Danaji Jadav and Balaji Vishwanath. The Maratha
State was divided into two parts. Shah became Chatrapati at Satara and Tarabai remained
powerful at Kolhapur.
AGE OF THE PESHWAS (1713 A.D.-1818 A.D.):

11. Balaji Vishwanath (1713 A.D.-1720 A.D.):
An accountant in the Court of Danaji Jadav, he was given the title of ‘Senakarta’ by Sahu and
was made Peshwa in 1713 A.D. The office of Peshwa was made hereditary on the request of
Balaji Vishwanath. In 1719 A.D., Balaji struck a treaty with Syyid Brothers called Delhi
Treaty.
Under the treaty, the Marathas on behalf of the Mughals were to maintain law and order in
Deccan and for that they would collect Chauth in 6 Mughal subahs in Deccan.
Yesubhai, mother of Sahu was released from Agra jail under the treaty.
The First Peshwa founded the Maratha Confederacy of 5 states with himself as the Head of
the Confederacy.
The 5 States were –

1. Peshwa of Pune
2. Bhonsle of Nagpur
3. Scindias of Gwalior
4. Kolkars of Indore
5. Gaikwads of Baroda.
The Peshwa also revived the Saranjama System. Under the system, Jagirs were granted to the
powerful Maratha families called Mokkasas (Mokkasadars).
II. Bajirao I (1720 A.D. – 1740 A.D.)

He became the Peshwa at the age of 19. He was the founder of the idea ‘Hindupad Padshahi’
(Hindus to rule India) and further declared that it was his ambition to see the Maratha Empire
spread upto Attok in Sind. The Peshwa defeated the Nizam of Hyderabd twice in 1728 A.D.
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and in 1738 A.D. He forced him to sign Mungishgaom and Durulsarai treates respectively. In
1739 A.D., the Peshwa defeated the Portuguese and occupied their settlements, Salesette and
Bassain. In 1739 A.D., when Nadir Shah, the king of Persia attacked Delhi, the Mughal
Emperor Md. Shah requested for the services of Bajirao I. The Peshwa, on his own, occupied
Malwa and Bundelkhand. He was called the Founder of the Greater Maratha Empire and
second Shivaji in Guerilla warforce. An excellent painter, he is connected with Mastani
episode. He defeated Sambhuji II of Kolhapur and united the Maratha State.
III. Balaji Bajirao (1740 A.D- 1761 A.D):

He became Peshwa at the age of 18. His actual name was Nana Sahi Raghuji Bhonsle. He
conquerored Carnatic, Mysore, crossed River Mahanadi, defeated Alvardi Khan (the ruler of
Bengal) and collected Chauth from all defeated States.
THIRD BATTLE OF PANIPAT: JAN 14, 1761:

It was fought between Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali of Persia. Abdali attacked India for
the first time in 1757 A.D. The Mughal Emperor, Alamgir II, requested for the help of the
Marathas. Raghuji Bhonsle sent by the Peshwas, defeated Timur Shah- son of Abdali and
Governor of Puniab. The Maratha leaders who participated in the Battle were Danaji
Gaikwad, Malhar Rao Holkar, Jankoji Scindia, Vishwas Rao (Son of Peshwa) and Sadashiv
Rao Bahu (cousin of Peshwa). Bahu was the supreme commander. Raghunath Rao Bhonsle
withdrew from the participation. Ibrahim Gardi was the Commander of Maratha artillery
forces. The main cause for the defeat of Marathas was the lack of support from the Sikhs and
Jats. The English were the ones who benefitted most from the third battle of Panipat. The
Peshwa died of shock.
IV. Madhav Rao (1761 A.D.-1771 A.D.):

He was the last great Peshwa, popular for his administrative reforms. The death of Peshwa
Madahv Rao was felt more disastrous than the Third Battle of Panipat.
V. Narayan Rao:
Narayan Rao was murdered by Raghunath Rao Bhonsle (Raghuba).
VI. Madhav Narayan:

The posthumous son of Narayan Rao was declared Sixth Peshwa by Nana Phadnavis.
FIRST ANGLO MARATHA WAR (1779 A.D. -1782 A.D.).

In 1775 A.D, Raghuba signed Surat Treaty with General Goddard of Bombay. In 1776 A.D.,
Nana signed Purandhar Treaty with Govemor General Warren Hastings, promising to give
Salsette if the English maintained neutrality. In 1779 A.D., the Bombay Government under
Goddard declared war on Pune Government or Peshwa. Narla was supported by Nahdaji
Scindia. They defeated General Goddard and forced him to sign Wedgao Convention in 1779
A.D., by which the English lost all their settlements. The war ended with Salbai Treaty in
1782 A.D. Warren Hastings agreed to recognize Madhav Narayan as Peshwa. Raghuba was
deposed. As promised, Marathas surrendered Salsette.
SECOND ANGLO MARATHA WAR (1803 A.D.-1805 A.D.):

After the First Anglo Maratha war, Marathas succeeded in gaining their lost power and
prestige. It was Mahdaji Scindia that escorted the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II from
Ayodhya to Delhi.. Nana Phadnavis supported the English in the Anglo-Mysore wars. In
1798 A.D., Peshwa Madhav Narayan died. Bajirao II, grandson of Raghuba was made the
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Peshwa. In 1800 A.D., Nana Phadnavis, the last great statesman in the history of Marathas
died. Peshwa Bajirao II, with the support of Scindia got the brother of Jaswant Rao Holkar
murdered. Holkar retaliated by defeating the Peshwa and by looting Pune. In 1802 A.D., the
Peshwa signed a treaty with Lord Wellesley called Bessain Treaty, requesting the help of the
English. In 1803 A.D., Bhonsle and Scindia declared war on Peshwa. Bhonsle was defeated
by Arthur Wellsley, brother of Governor General Lord Wellesley and signed Subsidiary
Alliance System. Scindia was defeated by Lord Lake. Lake entered Delhi and imprisoned
Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II. However Lake was defeated by Jaswant Rao Holkar. In the
second expedition, Lake defeated Holkar. Holkar took shelter in the court of Raja Ranjit
Singh and was the last to sign the Subsidary Alliance System.
THIRD ANGLO MARATHA WAR (1818 A.D.):

Peshwa Bajirao II got the ambassador of Gaikwads, Gngadh Shahtru murdered by Triambakji
Dengle. Peshwa refused to hand over Triambakji to the English and defeated them in the
Battles of Kirki, Asti and Koregaon.
Results of the Anglo-Maratha War:

Maratha confederacy got dissolved. A State called Satara was created and Pratap Singh, a
distant relative of Shivaji was made King of Satara. The last Peshwa, Bajirao II was granted
pension of 6 lacs per annum and was deported to Bethur near Kanpur.
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Medieval Indian History

EARLY MEDIEVAL INDIA (700 – 1200 A.D.)

Important changes that took place during the period:

THE PROMINENT DYNASTIES:

Sheikh Suleiman, an Arab merchant traveier visited the court of Bhoja.

5. Eastern Ganga dynasty:

New Chola Dynasty:

ARAB CONQUEST OF SIND:

TURKISH CONQUEST OF INDIA:

Alberuni observed that

DELHI SULTANATE (1206 – 1526 A.D.)

Minaz-us-Siraz wrote the famous Tabaqath-i-Nasiri on the administration of Nasiruddin (who

Ghiasuddin Balban – 1265 A.D. – 1286 A.D.:

Kaiqubad – 1286 A.D.-1290 A.D.:

Allaudin Khilji – 1295-1315 A.D.:

TUGHLAO DYNASTY (1320 A.D. – 1414 A.D.)

His controversial reforms were

His other reforms were as follows:

Feroz Shah Tughlaq (1351 A.D. – 1389 A.D.)

He beautified the city of Delhi with 1200 gardens.

SAYYİD DYNASTY-(1414 A.D.-1451 A.D.)

LODI DYNASTY –(1451 A.D -1526A.D.):

Terms relating to revenue administration:

Chola Chalukya Dynasty:

Village Adminstration was constituted by:

REGIONAL KINGDOMS / DYNASTIES:

Akbar conquered Gujarat in 1572 A.D.

VIJAYNAGAR EMPIRE –(1336 A.D.)

→ Devaraya I constructed a dam on river Tungabhadra at Hampi. According to Persian

Veerananarasimha was the last king of the dynasty.

Kalankari textiles (printed cloth) were exported from Masola.

Golconda and Vajrakarur were famous for diamond industry.

Art and Music:

Swami Vidyaranya wrote Sangeetha Saraswam.

Mahanataka Sudhanidhi writtin by Praudadevaraya also deals with music.

The literary assembly of Krishnadevaraya was called Bhuvanavijayam. He was a great

Amuktamalyada, written by Krishnadevaraya in Telugu is rated as one of the

Bahmani Confederacy included 5 States:

2. Bidar – It was ruled by Baridshahi dynasty founded by Kasim Barid.

It was the first state to introduce guerilla warfare in South.

MUGHAL EMPIRE (1526 A.D.-1857 A.D.)

Humayun (1530 A.D. – 1555 A.D.):

Akbar – (1556 A.D. – 1605 A.D.):

This was the last conquest of Akbar.

Akbar’s Rajput Policy:

AKBAR’S RELIGIOUS POLICY:

In 1563 A.D., the pilgrim tax on Hindus was abolished.

Jahangir (1605 A.D. – 1628 A.D.):

Shahjahan (1628 4.D-1658 A.D)):

In 1631 A.D., Mumtaz died.

In 1679 A.D. Jizia was reimposed.

In 1687 A.D., he conquered Golconda.

He died in 1707 A.D., at Ahmednagar and was buried at Aurangabad.

Anglo- Mughal realtions under Aurangzeb:

Central Government Administration:

He founded the Sur dynasty in Delhi after defeating Humayun.

The followers of Kabir were called Kabirapanthis.

BIRBAN: Bom at Karnal in Haryana in the community of farmers, he preached

Maratha Bhakti Reform Movement: