WBBSE Solutions For Class 7 History Chapter 7 Lifestyle And Culture Topic B Sultanate And Mughal Architecture Art Language Literature And Science And Technology

WBBSE Chapter 7 Lifestyle And Culture Topic B Sultanate And Mughal Architecture Art Language Literature And Science And Technology Long Question And Answers

Question 1. Give a brief idea about the Indo-Islamic or Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
Answer:

Indo-Islamic or Indo-Saracenic style of architecture:

Into-Islamic or Indo-Saracenic style of architecture evolved during the 13th century, in the Sultanate era, due to the amalgamation of Islamic and Hindu architectural elements. Indo-Islamic or Indo-Saracenic Architecture

1. Background:

Hindus and Muslims CO- existed for centuries and deeply influenced each other. During the Turko-Afghan era, Islam-based Persian culture flourished.

Simultaneously, there were changes in the Indian style of architecture in terms of ornamentation and themes. Under these circumstances, IndoSaracenic Style of architecture evolved.

2. Spread:

The indo-Saracenic architectural style flourished during the Mughal times as well, particularly during the reigns of Humayun and Akbar.

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3. Specimens:

• Notable examples of architecture during the Sultanate era are, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, Qutb Minar, and Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhopda.
• During the Mughal era, notable examples are Sher Shah’s mausoleum at Sasaram, Humayun’s tomb, Jami Masjid, Taj Mahal, and Moti Masjid.

 

Question 2. Give an idea of the various styles of architecture during the Sultanate era.
Answer:

Various styles of architecture during the Sultanate era:

The architecture of the Sultanate era is called the Indo-Islamic or Indo-Persian style of architecture.

Architecture in Sultanate Era

1. At the capital, Delhi:

Some new elements were incorporated in the constructions in Delhi, for example,

1. Mixing lime and sand with water to form a layer
2. Incorporating designs like geometric figures, swastika,lotus, creepers, and bells
3. Use of arches and domes, in larger structures like palaces and mosques, like Qutb minar, alai darwaza, and the mausoleum of sikandar shah.

2. Provincial architecture:

The provincial styles included Jaunpuri, Bengali, Malwa, Gujarati, and South Indian architecture. Notable examples are the Masjid of Barbak, Atala Masjid, Adina Masjid at Pandua, Choto Sona Masjid, and Bara Sona Masjid at Gauda.

3. Independent Hindu Architecture:

Richly carved pillars were constructed to hold up vast, carved ceilings as at Vithalnath Temple at Vijaynagar, Rana Kumbha’s pillar and fort at Mewar, Jagannath Temple at Puri, and Sun Temple at Konarak.

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Question 3. Mention the main landmarks of architecture during the Sultanate era.
Answer:

During the Sultanate era, the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture profusely bloomed in Delhi under various royal dynasties. Chief architectural specimens in the Sultanate period

1. Slave Dynasty:

1. Qutbuddin Aibak constructed the Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid in Delhi in 1193, to commemorate his conquest of Delhi.
2. Aibak also started the construction of the Qutb Minar in Delhi in honor of the famous Sufi saint, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki, of Baghdad.
3. He put up the famous Masjid, Adhai- Din-Ka-Jhopda at Ajmer.

2. Khilji Dynasty:

1. During the reign of Alauddin Khilji, the Alai Darwaza was constructed. This was meant to serve as an entrance for the Qutb Minar.
2. Nizamuddin Auliya’s Tomb, Hazar-i-Situn, and Siri are other significant examples of the grand architecture of the times.

3. Tughlaq Dynasty:

The Sultans of the Tughlaq dynasty used expensive red sandstone to build their palaces and mansions. Some notable examples of Tughlaq architecture are the Adilabad Fort, the Palace at Firozabad, and the Tomb of Ghiyasuddin.

4. Sayyid and Lodi Dynasties:

Architecture reached its climax during the reign of the Sayyid and Lodi dynasties in the provinces. Notable provincial architectural structures are the Adina Mosque at Pandua, Bara Sona Masjid, Jami Masjid at Ahmedabad, and Char Minar at Hyderabad.

 

Question 4. What was the state of provincial architecture during the Sultanate era?
Answer:

The state of provincial architecture during the Sultanate era:

John Marshall says the architecture of the Sultanate era was an amalgamation of Hindu and Muslim elements. Examples, of provincial architecture in this era are found in Gujarat, Bengal, Jaunpur, and Bahmani kingdom.

Provincial Architecture in the Sultanate Period

1. Architecture in Bengal:

• In Bengal, mosques were put up, following the Do-Chala or Char-Chala style, adorned with the Hindu symbol of the lotus. Bricks were more in use than stone in construction.
• Notable examples of architecture in Bengal are the Adina Masjid at Pandua, Bara Sona Masjid and Choto Sona Masjid at Gauda, Kadam Rasul, and Dakhil Darwaza.

 

 

2. Jaunpuri Architecture:

Hindu elements are dominantly visible here, like the Laal Darwaza and the dome of the Atala masjid.

3. Bahmani Architecture:

• Indian, Turkish, Persian, and Egyptian elements are clearly visible.
• Notable examples are the Jami Masjid of Gulbarga, Charminar of Hyderabad, and the Madrassa at Bidar set up by Mahmud Gawan.

4. Gujarati Architecture:

The 260 pillars and the domes at Jami Masjid are notable.

5. Others:

The Hindola Mahal and Jahaz Mahal at Malwa are famous examples of provincial architecture.

Question 5. Discuss the architecture at Pandua.
Answer:

Architecture at Pandua:

The Adina Masjid at Pandua is an outstanding example of Sultanate architecture in Bengal. At that time, it was the largest mosque in Bengal.

Pandua Architecture

1. Builder and period:

• During the second half of the 14th century, the mosque was constructed by Sultan Sikandar Shah.
• It has 400 domes and is a glittering example of Indo-Saracenic art.

2. Statistics:

• From north to south, the masjid measured 507 feet and 285 feet, from east to west.
• Internally the structure was 400 feet long and 150 feet wide. It has 400 pillars.
• Its courtyard is so wide that, thousands of worshippers can offer prayers together.

3. Style:

• The mosque is built in the Indo-Saracenic style, on a foundation of rows of black stone.
• It had a separate entrance for the members of the royal family.
• There were five and three entry and exit points in the western and the eastern walls of the mosque respectively.

 

 

Question 6. Give an account of Mughal architecture.
Answer:

Mughal architecture:

Mughal architecture, a mixture of Indo-Saracenic, Persian, and Turkish styles, flourished under the various emperors.

Conceptual Questions on Literature of the Sultanate Period

Mughal Architecture

1. Babur’s reign:

During the four-year reign of Babur, were set up the Iron Fort at Agra, Kabuli Bagh at Panipat, Jame-i-Masjid at Sambhal, and mosques and palaces at Gwalior and Dholpur.

2. Humayun’s reign:

Under Humayun, architecture could not make much headway due to political turmoil.

3. Akbar’s reign:

Under Akbar, Indian architecture mixed with Persian style, flourished, and structures like Agra Fort, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and Jodha Bai’s palace were erected.

4. Jahangir’s reign:

During Jahangir’s reign, the tomb of Akbar at Sikandra and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, built at Agra by Nur Jahan, deserve special mention.

5. Shah Jahan’s reign:

Architecture reached its climax under Shah Jahan. He built the world-famous Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Moti Masjid, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and Shish Mahal.

6. Aurangzeb’s reign:

Under Aurangzeb, the Badshahi Mosque at Lahore and the Moti Masjid inside the Delhi Fort were constructed.

Question 7. Describe the main features of Mughal architecture.
Answer:

The main features of Mughal architecture:

Mughal architecture, an amalgamation of Indian, Turkish, Egyptian, and Persian styles, had some independent significant features.

Features of Mughal architecture:

1. Use of domes:

Domes were a significant feature of Baghdadi architecture and were followed by the Mughals.

2. Indo-Persian mixture:

The Mughals were the successors of the Sultans of Delhi in following the Indo-Persian style of architecture.

3. Hindu elements:

Hindu elements are profusely found in Mughal structures as at Dewan-i-Aam in Delhi.

4. Use of colored tiles and stones:

Materials used included white marble, red sandstone, and colored tiles.

Question 8. Discuss the architectural development during the reign of Shah Jahan.
Answer:

The architectural development during the reign of Shah Jahan:

Called ‘the Prince of Builders’ for his ardent love of architecture, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan carried on building activities in Delhi, Agra, and Lahore.

Shah Jahan’s Achievements in architecture

1. Architecture:

Shah Jahan constructed many structures based on Indo-Saracenic or Indo-Islamic styles like

1. The Red Fort, made of red sandstone and resembling the Agra Fort
2. The Taj Mahal, made of white marble, was built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz, and called ‘Dream of the Marble’
3. The enormous Jami Masjid, built outside the Red Fort
4. Dewan-i-Aam, Dewan-i-Khas, Moti Masjid, and Shish Mahal were built in the Agra Fort.

 

 

2. Other spheres:

The center of attraction at Shah Jahan’s court was the exquisite Peacock Throne. It was constructed by the Persian artist, Bebadal Khan, in nearly seven years and at a cost of nearly a crore.

Shah Jahan also patronized painting and loved bright colors and elaborate decorations. He patronized talented painters like Samarkandi and Muhammad Nadir.

Question 9. Write a note on provincial painting. Or, Name some Rajput and Kangra paintings and briefly describe their themes.
Answer:

Provincial Paintings

1. Rajput paintings:

• The Rajput-made paintings were the earliest ones in the case of provincial art styles.
• It developed in the first half of the 16th century at Ajmer, Ambar (Jaipur), Bikaner, Marwar (the capital was Jodhpur) Mewar (the capital was Udaipur).
• It was influenced both by the Mughal style of painting and other painting styles.
• Its themes included realistic scenes of nature, fruits, flowers, rivers, canals, and creepers.
• It also captured scenes from the Mahabharata and episodes from the stories of Krishna and Radha. Two famous Rajput artists are Sahebdin and Manohar.

2. Kangra paintings:

• Kangra school of Art was also a notable offshoot of the Mughal School of Art.
• It developed in the mountainous regions of Punjab and Kashmir and used deep, bright colors and profuse ornamentation.
• It was also called the Pahari School of Art.

Question 10. Write a note on miniature painting. Or, Give a brief idea of the features and topics of miniature painting.
Answer:

Miniature Painting

1. Concept:

• Miniature paintings were small-sized paintings, done on paper or used as ornamentation for books, and had to be appreciated by holding them.
• They were not hung on walls. It was already in vogue among Jaina painters in Rajasthan, Saurashtra, and Gujarat.

2. Theme:

• These paintings had realistic themes. The theme was more important than the structure.
• Jaina temples had such paintings in their libraries. The Kalkacharya katha of the Kalpasutra was illustrated in this style.
• The lines were bold and deep red, yellow, and blue colors predominated.
• During the Sultanate era and even before, at Jaipur, Mandu, and Ahmedabad, this style developed and also flourished under the Mughals.

Question 11. State the development of court- painting and provincial art under the Mughals.
Answer:

• Under Mughal rule, court painting flourished, having commenced under Babur.
• It reached its climax during Jahangir’s reign.

Court Painting

1. Babur:

Babur loved nature and appointed painters at his court to depict scenes from nature.

2. Humayun:

• Humayun brought two Persian painters, Mir Syed Ali Tabrizzi and Khwaja Abdus Samad, from Kabul to Delhi.
• They prepared a portfolio called ‘Dastan-Amir- Hamza’, incorporating Persian elements.

3. Akbar:

Akbar set up a department of painting, led by Abdus Samad, to develop this art.

4. Jahangir:

Under Jahangir, all facades of painting made great strides, like miniature art, portrait painting, decoration, and depiction of natural scenes.

5. Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb:

Under Shah Jahan, art continued to flourish but faced an abrupt decline during Aurangzeb’s reign.

Provincial Art

Provincial art developed during the Mughal era, at Gwalior, Lucknow, Patna, Hyderabad, and Punjab.

1. Kangra School of Art was developed in the hilly regions of Kashmir and Punjab.
2. Gular Art of Jammu-Kashmir and Vijaynagari art of South India are also notable.
3. Miniature provincial art flourished in the kingdoms of Jaunpur, Mandu, and Ahmedabad.

Question 12. Write a note on Tansen. Or, Give a brief account of Tansen.
Answer:

Tansen

1. Early Life:

• Born a Hindu, the original name of Tansen was Ramtanu Pandey. His father’s name was Mukundaram (Makarand Pandey).
• He learned music according to the Gwalior Gharana from Muhammad Adil Khan.
• At first, he was employed by the Maharaja of Rewa. Later, he was appointed as a teacher, at a music school at Gwalior, set up by Raja Man Singh.

2. Patronage of Akbar:

• Mughal Emperor Akbar was fascinated by Tansen’s musical prowess and brought him to his own court from that of Man Singh.
• Tansen became one of the Nine Gems at Akbar’s court. He was the main singer at the royal court.

3. Achievement:

• Tansen was the most talented singer and music composer of the Mughal era. He introduced Dhrupadi music at Akbar’s court.
• He composed Ragas like Deepak, Megha Mallar, Todi, Sarang, and many other songs.
• He could also play many musical instruments and invented the Tabla.

Question 13. Give an account of biographical sketches of Sri Chaitanya in Bengali literature and language.
Answer:

The composition of quite a few biographies of Sri Chaitanya comprises an important part of the Bengali language and literature during the 16th and 17th centuries.

1. Chaitanya Bhagavata:

Brindavan Das composed the Chaitanya Bhagavata, the first biography of Sri Chaitanya in three ‘parts which describes various episodes of his life.

2. Chaitanya Charitamrita:

• Krishnadas Kaviraj composed the Chaitanya Charitamrita in three parts.
• The first part ends with Chaitanya’s taking up Sannyas.
• The second part comprises Chaitanya’s debates and discussions with Rup Sanatan and Prakashananda.
• The third part chronicles the last twelve years of his life when he dedicated himself to God’s devotion completely.

3. Chaitanya Mangal:

• Chaitanya Mangal was the same name, of two books, one composed by Lochan Das and the other by Jayananda.
• Lochan Das’s book has 4 parts: Sutra, Adi, Madhyam, and the End.
• They describe the eulogies of the Mangal Kavya and end with Sri Chaitanya’s death. Jayananda’s Chaitanya Mangal has nine parts.

4. Commentary:

The commentary of Govinda Das, who accompanied Sri Chaitanya on his journey through South India, also describes many facets of the latter’s life.

5. Gauranga Vijaya:

Churamani Das composed Gauranga Vijay, an incomplete biographical sketch of Sri Chaitanya.

Question 14. Discuss the importance of Padavalis in Bengali language and literature.
Answer:

By the term Padavali, we generally mean Vaishnava Padavalis, the foremost example of which is the Geet Govinda of Joydev.

Padavalis

1. Source:

Padavalis are derived from the songs, contained in the epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, various dramas of ancient India, and the dramas and epics of Kalidas.

2. Various parts:

Gopal Haldar in his book has divided Padavali into four parts, Gauda, Bhajan, Radha-Krishna, and Ragatmika.

3. Features:

The Padavalis record the relationship based on ardent devotion between Radha and Krishna and are the outpourings of devoted and passionate hearts.

4. Composers of Padavalis:

1. Vidyapati, the Maithili poet, is the foremost of all poets, who composed Padavalis, based on the devotion between Radha and Krishna.
2. Chandidas is another notable personage who expresses the initial stage of Radha’s love in his verses.
3. Poets contemporary to Sri Chaitanya included Murari Gupta, Narahari Sarkar, Shivananda Sen, and Ramananda Basu. After Sri Chaitanya, Padavali-composers who deserve mention are Balaram Das, Govinda Das, and Gyan Das.

Question 15. State the role played by Mangal Kavyas in the evolution of Bengali literature and language.
Answer:

Literally, the word Mangal means well-being. The Mangal Kavyas are normally based on stories of the Puranas and popular deities.

Mangal Kavya

1. Foundation and development:

The Mangal Kavyas are structurally divided into four parts, Bandanakhanda, Atma Bibarani, Devakhanda, and Narakhanda.

2. Types:

Mangal Kavyas are of various types like Manasa Mangal, Dharma Mangal, Chandi Mangal, Shivayan, and Annada Mangal. A minor form of the Mangal Kavyas is the Kalika Mangal.

3. Source:

The Mangal Kavyas were created on the background of the contemporary attacks of the Turks on Bengal and the amalgamation of Puranic and popular culture.

4. Features:

1. Pretense: The characters would take the shelter of pretense to disclose their identity or to describe any episode.
2. Folklore style: The epics were composed in the manner of folklore.
3. Eulogizing Deities: The works emphasise the supernatural powers of the deities.

The predominance of female characters: There is a predominance of female characters in the Mangal Kavyas.

Question 16. Give an account of literary development during the Mughal era.
Answer:

Various branches of literature flourished under the patronage of the Mughal emperors and provincial rulers.

Mughal Literature

1. Biographical literature:

• Mughal rulers composed their autobiographies like the ‘Tuzuk-i-Baburi’ and the ‘Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri’ by Babur and Jahangir respectively.
• Biographies also abound like the ‘Humayunnama’ written by Gulbadan Begum and the ‘Akbarnama’ of Abul Fazl.
• Abdul Hamid Lahori wrote the ‘Badshahnama’ and Mirza Muhammad Qazi wrote the ‘Alamgirnama’.

2. Translations:

The Mughal emperors commissioned the translation of the Mahabharata, Ramayana, Geeta, and the Upanishads into Persian.

3. Historical works:

Many historical chronicles were composed at this time, for eg, Abdul Qadir Badauni’s ‘Muntakhab-ul- Tawarikh’, Mullah Muhammad Qasim’s ‘Tarikh-i-Ferishta’, Asad Begh’s ‘Halat-i-Asad Begh’ and Ghulam Hussain’s ‘Riaz-us- Salatin’.

4. Provincial literature:

Provincial language and literature flourished due to the sermons of the Sikh Gurus in Gurumukhi, Surdas in Hindi, Tukaram-Ramdas in Marathi, the Bhajans of Meera Bai in Brajbhasa; Ramprasad, Mukunda Ram and Bharat-Chandra in Bengali and Muhammad Kuli in Urdu.

Question 17. How did the Persian language become famous in medieval India?
Answer:

The Persian language becomes famous in medieval India:

The popularity of the Persian language in medieval India

Use of the Persian language:

• Persian language and literature became highly popular in the Sultanate period. The Turko-1 Afghan sultans were essentially warriors but they were also patrons of Islamic learning. At this time Persian was the state language.
• Sultan Qutbuddin Aibak and Iltutmish were the patrons of the Persian language. Lahore became a leading center of the language. Delhi, Jalandhar, and Ferozabad grew up as the centers of learning.
• The Persian language came to be used not only in administrative duties but also in creative writing.

2. Greater Popularity:

• When the Persian language came to be used for writing history, it became more popular. Amir Khusrau and Mir Hasan Dehlvi were some of the famous writers of the Persian language.
• Famous historians like Minhaj-i-Siraj, Isami, and Ziauddin Barni composed their historical works in their own language.
• Jainul Abedin of Kashmir took the initiative of translating ‘Rajtarangini’, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata into the Persian language.
• The autobiography of Babur and Akbar was composed in the Persian language.
• The writings of Faizi and others made the language more popular. In short, the popularity of the language was on the increase at that time.

Question 18. What was the role of the Mughal emperors in the improvement of Mughal painting?
Answer:

The role of the Mughal emperors in the improvement of Mughal painting:

• Like architecture, painting also flourished during the Mughal period. It was also an example of the Indo-Persian style.
• The key feature of Mughal paintings was that they were small in size and hence are known as ‘miniature paintings’.

Role of the emperors in the improvement of Mughal painting

The Mughal emperors were very much enthusiastic about painting.

1. Babur, a great lover of beauty employed court painters.
2. Humayun also developed a taste for painting. Mir Sayid Ali and Khaja Abdus Samad were two renowned painters of his court.
3. Akbar created a separate department of painting under Abdus Samad. They prepared illustrations of the stories of Persian classics.
4. They also included the ‘Ramayana’, the ‘Mahabharata’ etc.
5. During the time of Jahangir, the art of painting was essentially Indian. Objects like flowers, trees, birds, and scenes of hunting were taken from real life.
6. Abul Hasan, Muhammad Nadir, and others were the leading painters of his time.
7. In Shah Jahan’s time, a new school of painting developed through the synthesis of Hindu and European styles. Nadir Samarkandi was the best artist of his time. 6 Aurangzeb considered painting as un-Islamic.

• Mughal painting could not have flourished without royal patronage.

Question 19. What do you know about the improvement of language and literature in the Sultanate period?
Answer:

Improvement of language and literature in the Sultanate period

Language and literature developed much in the Sultanate period.

1. Arabic:

• The educated Muslims of India highly respected the Arabic language.
• Quite a few official books were written in Arabic.

2. Persian:

• Sultan Qutbuddin and Iltutmish were great patrons of the Persian language.
• Amir Khusrau developed a new style of writing in Persian named ‘Sabak-i-Hind.
• Minhaj-us-Shiraj, Isami, and Ziyauddin Barani were some of the famous Persian poets.
• Jiya Nakshabi translated a chain of Sanskrit storybooks into the Persian language.
• Jain-ul-Abedin, the Sultan of Kashmir encouraged the translation of Kalhan’s ‘Rajatarangini’, and the ‘Mahabharata’ into Persian.

3. Bengali:

Some of the Bengali literary works like ‘Padavali’ literature, ‘Ramayana’ and the ‘Mahabharata’, Mangalkavya, Natha literature, and biographical poetry on Sri Chaitanya deserve special mention. They were either original or translated.

Question 20. What do you know about the development of science and technology in medieval India?
Answer:

Achievements in scientific areas like astronomy and medicine continued from the Delhi Sultans as well as from the Mughal Emperors and their nobility.

Development of Science and Technology in Medieval India

1. Astronomy:

• Kitab-ul-Hind of Albiruni gives a clear picture of scientific and technological advancement in the medieval age
• . In the medieval period, astronomy developed much. Feroz Shah Tughlaq built an observatory on a high minaret in Delhi.

2. Medical science:

Unani or Yunani medicine is the term for Perso-Arabic traditional medicine as practiced in the medieval period. Ayurvedic treatment also existed at that time.

3. Military technology:

• At that time Bihar produced saltpeter in plenty. It was an essential ingredient of gunpowder.
• The idea of gunpowder came from the Mongols of India. As we know, it was Babur’s artillery that worked wonders in the First Battle of Panipat.

4. Paper technology:

• In the 1st century paper technology was invented in China.
• From there the technology came to India in the 13th century.

5. Weaving industry:

• Major changes took place in the weaving technology in the 11th century.
• The ‘Charkhi’ (a kind of spinning wheel) reached India from central Asia around this time.
• Sant Kabir is said to have been born into a weaver’s family.

Conclusion:

Dr. Irfan Habib analyzed the picture of technological advancement of this age in detail.

Question 21. What was the condition of science and technology in the medieval era?
Answer:

Science and technology made great advancements in several spheres in the medieval era.

1. There was a noticeable development in astronomy during the Sultanate period.
2. Unani medicine of Perso-Arabic tradition was introduced in India.
3. Firearms using gunpowder were introduced. The technology of making guns and pistols came from China and Egypt. Cannons came in use since Babur’s reign in the Mughal era.
4. The paper has been in use since medieval times.
5. Charkhi or the cotton-spinning wheel was brought from Central Asia.
6. Persian wheel or Sakiya was derived from Persia to lift water from wells.

Question 22. Describe the development of astronomy and medicine during the Sultanate and Mughal eras.
Answer:

Astronomy:

• During the Sultanate and Mughal eras, astronomy made great headway.
• Feroz Shah Tughlaq constructed an observatory provided with a sundial on a tall Minar in Delhi.
• Jai Singh, the ruler of Jaipur, built observatories at Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura, Ujjain, and Varanasi.
• Medicine:

In the Middle Ages, Unani medicine developed based on Persian and Arabic traditions. Ayurvedic medicine was also popular.

Question 23. What changes took place in the field of military technology in the Middle Ages?
Answer:

Fire-arms:

In the early part of the 14th century, firearms traveled from China to India, through the Mongols.

Rockets and Cannons:

• In the middle of the 14th century, gun-powder rockets came into use in India.
• The technology for making guns came to India from Egypt during the second half of the 15th century.

Cannons:

• The Mughals introduced cannons in India. Gradually, the Indian army began to use it.
• Cannons and artillery. The gunners and cannon specialists were in high demand in the army.

Question 24. What changes took place in the technology of weaving cloth in India in the Middle Ages?
Answer:

Charkhi:

In the 11th century, the spinning wheel, or Charkhi came to India from Central Asia.

Charka:

• In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Turkish rulers brought the Charkha, which could weave yarn from raw cotton.
• It rapidly spread throughout the country.

Block printing:

Since the 14th century, the art of Bandhani, or block printing on cloth with various colors became popular.

Question 25. Describe the irrigation system during the Middle Ages.
Answer:

South India:

• The rulers of Vijayanagar constructed reservoirs beside rivers and had irrigation canals dug to water the crop fields.
• Thus, they brought about praiseworthy irrigational development.

North and East India:

During the Sultanate and Mughal eras, irrigation channels were dug from small rivers in northern and eastern India and used to water the fields.

Question 26. Write about the agricultural technology in medieval India.
Answer:

The agricultural technology in medieval India:

• Technology developed much in medieval India. The sector of agriculture was not an exception too.
• Different types of grubbers with advanced technology came to be used for the improvement of cultivation.
• As agriculture was the main livelihood, the state paid due attention to irrigation.
• In the 13th century, different kinds of equipment were introduced for lifting water.
• One of them was the ‘Saqiya’ (a kind of wheel) which came from Persia.
• With the help of this wooden machine, water could be lifted using animal power.
• But because of its high cost, the machine could not popular among the peasants.
• However, Portuguese technology was very helpful to Indian agriculture.

Question 27. Write a note on Amir Khusrau.
Answer:

Amir Khusrau:

Amir Khusrau was a Sufi singer, poet, and scholar from India.

• He was an iconic figure in the cultural history of the Indian subcontinent. He was a mystic and a spiritual disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya of Delhi.
• He wrote poetry primarily in Persian. Khusrau is regarded as the ‘father of qawwali’ and introduced the ‘ghazal’ style of song into India.
• His contribution to the development of the ‘ghazal’ was significant.
• Tarana and Kheyal are also credited to Khusrau. Actually, Tarana was entirely an invention of Khusrau.
• He is credited for the invention of the ‘sitar’. Besides, ‘tabla’, ‘pakhawaj’ etc., were his creations. He had also many writings on classical music.

 

 

WBBSE Chapter 7 Lifestyle And Culture Topic B Sultanate And Mughal Architecture Art Language Literature And Science And Technology Short Question And Answers

Question 1. What is Qutb Minar?
Answer:

Qutb Minar:

• Qutbuddin Aibak was a pious Muslim and his devotion to Islam is shown by two mosques which he built at Delhi and Ajmer.
• He started the construction of the Qutb Minar in honor of the sacred memory of Muslim saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. Iltutmish completed the construction of Qutb Minar.

Question 2. What is Alai Darwaza?
Answer:

Alai Darwaza:

• Alai Darwaza at the Qutb Minar was built by Alauddin Khilji. In every feature either structural or decorative, the Alai Darwaza is incomparably beautiful.
• The ‘Darwaza’ means a door. Alai Darwaza was an instance of Alauddin’s power as a Sultan.

Question 3. Give some examples of constructions of the Tughlaq period.
Answer:

Some examples of constructions of the Tughlaq period:

Among the constructions of the Tughlaq period, the city of Tughlaqabad, built by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the fortress of Adilabad and city of Jahan Panah founded by Muhammad bin Tughlaq and the palace fort of Firozabad, and Firoz Shah Kotla are important. Firoz Shah was a prolific builder.

Question 4. What is ‘Buland Darwaza’?
Answer:

Buland Darwaza:

• Buland Darwaza or the ‘door of victory’ was built by Mughal emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory over Gujarat
• It is the main entrance to the Jama Masjid at Fatehpur Sikri.

Question 5. What is Taj Mahal?
Answer:

Taj Mahal:

• The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the southern bank of the river Yamuna in Agra.
• It was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Question 6. Write about Tuzuk-i-Baburi.
Answer:

Tuzuk-i-Baburi:

Question 7. What is Fa

• Tuzuk-i-Baburi(or Baburnama) is popularly known as Babur’s memoir.
• It was originally written in Turkish. It was later translated in Persian.
• It is an extraordinary literary work in a very frank manner.

Question 8. What is Nath’s literature?
Answer:

Nath literature:

• Nath literature is a branch of medieval Bengali literature, based on the Nath cult or ‘yoga-sadhana’.
• Nath literature was based on legends and stories about the Nath Yogis.
• The aim of the stories was to attract people to the cult. They believed in Shaivism.

Question 9. What is Jod Bangla temple?
Answer:

Jod Bangla temple:

• Jod Bangla temple has a typical architecture, found in the southern part of Bengal.
• The temple was built by the Malla kings of Bishnupur, West Bengal.
• The style involves two structures that resemble the traditional village huts.
• Each structure has a roof of the ek chala (single thatched roof) or do chala (double thatched roof) style.
• Two such similar structures joined together were called ‘Jod Bangla (paired Bengal).

Question 10. What is miniature painting?
Answer:

Miniature painting:

• A painting that is much smaller than normal, is called miniature painting.
• This type of painting was confined to the Mughal court.
• They were used as book illustrations and also kept in albums.
• Ancient or medieval manuscripts were decorated with these paintings.

Question 11. What is the Indo-Saracenic style of art?
Answer:

Indo-Saracenic style of art:

• Indo-Saracenic art style refers to the architectural style that evolved in India during the Sultanate era due to the patronage and enthusiasm of the Sultans of Delhi.
• It comprised of both Hindu and Islamic elements of art.

Specimens:

This style of art has been followed in building the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque and the Qutb Minar, constructed by Qutbuddin Aibak, the Alai Darwaza of Alauddin Khilji and the Moti Ki Masjid of Sikandar Lodi.

Question 12. How did Hindu and Muslim elements inter-mingle in the field of architecture in the Sultanate era?
Answer:

Hindu and Muslim elements inter-mingle in the field of architecture in the Sultanate era:

• In the Middle Ages, Hindu, and Islamic architectural styles inter-mingled.
• The Indo-Saracenic style of the Sultanate period and the Indo-Persian style of the Mughal period fused in the field of architecture.
• The best examples of this fusion or synthesis are the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque and Qutb Minar.

Question 13. What were the significant characteristics of the architecture of the Tughlaq and Lodi dynasties?
Answer:

The significant characteristics of the architecture of the Tughlaq and Lodi dynasties:

Tughlaq era:

• The Sultans of the Tughlaq Dynasty constructed planned cities and paid special attention to the construction of mausoleums.
• A slant wall with a dome was a special feature.

Lodi era:

• The Sultans of the Lodi Dynasty built octagonal mausoleums, standing in a vast, planned courtyard.
• The entrance was a Bara-Darwaza (Large Doorway) and the mausoleums. was built amidst a beautiful garden.

Question 14. Name some provincial architectural examples of the Sultanate era.
Answer:

Some provincial architectural examples of the Sultanate era:

Some famous architectural examples of the regional kingdoms during the Sultanate era are Gol Gambuj at Ahmednagar, Gulbarga Fort of the Deccan, Charminar of Hyderabad, Adina Mosque constructed by Sikandar Shah at Pandua in Bengal, ruins of the tomb of Zafar Khan at Triveni, tomb of Sheikh Ali Shiraj in Gauda, Dakhil Darwaza, Tantipara Masjid, Gunnat Masjid and Loton Masjid of Gauda.

Question 15. Mention two notable features of Mughal architecture.
Answer:

Two notable features of Mughal architecture:

The two notable features of Mughal architecture are the Chahar Bagh and the Pietra Dura.

Chaharbagh:

Since the reign of Babur, it was a system of dividing a garden into four equal plots and decorating them with varieties of fruit and flower plants.

Pietra Dura:

• Since the reign of Jahangir, the style of Pietra Dura has evolved wherein, precious and semi-precious stones including pearls were embedded in marble.
• This Pietra-Dura art is seen in the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula.

Question 16. Give some examples of Mughal architecture.
Answer:

Some examples of Mughal architecture:

• Mughal architecture began to develop systematically during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.
• Humayun’s Tomb, Agra Fort, Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, and Buland Darwaza were all built during his reign.
• Moti Masjid was built during Jahangir’s reign. Taj Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Red Fort were built during Shah Jahan’s reign.
• While during Aurangzeb’s reign, the Badshahi Mosque was built at Agra.

Question 17. What is Pietra Dura?
Answer:

Pietra Dura:

• The art of Pietra Dura evolved as a form of ornamentation during the reign of the Mughal emperor, Jahangir.
• Designs of flowers, fruits, and geometric shapes were embossed on marble with precious and semi-precious stones, producing a dazzling and colorful effect.
• Specimen: It is clearly seen on the tomb of Jahangir’s father-in-law, Itmad-ud-Daula, at Agra.

Question 18. What is the Pahari (Kangra) style of Art?
Answer:

Pahari (Kangra) style of Art:

During the Mughal reign, the style of art that developed in the hilly tracts of Kashmir and Punjab was called the Pahari style of art.

Characteristics:

• It consisted of the use of deep, bright colors and profuse ornamentation.
• The topics are associated with the legends of Radha- Krishna. The Pahari or Kangra paintings are an important specimen of folk art.

Question 19. What do you mean by Tasvir?
Answer:

Tasvir:

• Tasvir refers to a special method of making an identical painting based on a specific topic.
• Akbar was very fond of this style since his youth and patronized artists like Mir Syed Ali of Persia, Abdus Samad, Baswan, and Daswant.
• Every week Daroga and clerks placed all the paintings drawn by the artists before him.
• He would judge the merits and demerits of the pictures. He rewarded the best artist and enhanced his salary

Question 20. What was the state of painting at the Mughal court?
Answer:

Nature:

• Mughal court painting was deeply influenced by Iranian and Afghani schools of art.
• They decorated the sides and covers of manuscripts with elaborate designs.

Characteristics:

1. Miniatures formed an important feature of Mughal painting. They used vibrant colors in books.
2. Artists also drew portraits, and scenes of nature, plant life, and animal life.

Question 21. What was the state of regional painting during the Mughal era?
Answer:

The state of regional painting during the Mughal era:

• During the Mughal era, apart from court painting, regional painting also flourished in Rajasthan, Jammu, Kashmir, and Kangra.
• They too were miniatures, with vibrant scenes from the Puranas and legends associated with Lord Krishna. Rajput School of Art and Kangra style were popular.

Question 22. Describe the dance forms of the Middle Ages.
Answer:

The dance forms of the Middle Ages:

India had six types of Dhrupadi (classical style) dance forms-Bharatnatyam, Kathakali, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Kathak, and Manipuri.

Bhakti elements influenced Manipuri dance during the 18th century and legends of Krishna were depicted through this dance-form.

Question 23. Describe the development of music in the Sultanate and the Mughal periods.
Answer:

The development of music in the Sultanate and the Mughal periods:

• Music in Sultanate era: The collective music (sama) of the Sufi Pirs was aimed at devotional utterances in praise of God.
• The Dohas of Kabir, the speeches of Nanak and the Bhajans of Meera Bai as well as the Kirtans of Sri Chaitanya also made music an important part of their worship.

Music in Mughal era:

• Traditional classical music was cultivated during Akbar’s reign.
• Abul Fazl mentions thirty six eminent singers.
• The most famous singer was Tansen.
• He created two Ragas-Deepak and Meghamallar.

Question 24. Describe the state of Persian literature of the Sultanate era.
Answer:

The state of Persian literature of the Sultanate era:

• In the Middle Ages, during the Sultanate era, Persian literature flourished due to the patronage of the Sultans. The most famous among Persian writers was Amir Khusrau, called Tota-i-Hind.
• Well-known Persian historians included Ziauddin Barani, Isami, and Minhaj-i Siraj. Kalhan’s Rajatarangini and the Mahabharata were translated into Persian.

Question 25. Write notes on Arabic and Persian literature in the Mughal era.
Answer:

Background:

• During the Mughal era, the Arabic language and literature were not prevalent. Babur’s autobiography ‘Tuzuk-i- Baburi’ was written both in Persian and Turkish.
• On his return from Iran, Humayun was accompanied by many Persian poets and writers.
• The most famous of them was Qasim Khan Mauji.
• History writing, poetry- composition, and translation were performed in Persian during Akbar’s reign.

Important works:

• Mention must be made of ‘Akbarnama of Abul Fazl, ‘Muntakhab-ul- Twarikh’ of Badauni and ‘Tabaqat-i-Akbari’ of Nizamuddin Ahmed.
• During Aurangzeb’s reign the law-book, ‘Fatwa-i-Alamgiri’ was composed.

Question 26. Give an account of development of Bengali literature in the middle ages.
Answer:

Development of Bengali literature in the middle ages:

Initial stage:

At the onset of the Sultanate era, Chandidas composed Sri-Krishna-kirtan, which provides us a basic impression on the state of Bengali language in the sultanate period.

Later stage:

• During the 15th century, Bengali literature was cultivated during the Ilyas Shahi regime.
• Padavalis were composed in praise of Sri Krishna, Sri Chaitanya or Radha-Krishna.
• The Ramayana and the Mahabharata were translated by Krittibas Ojha and Kashiram Das respectively.
• Mangal Kavyas were composed in praise of Chandi, Manasa, and Dharma. Literature composed in praise of Shiva was called Shivayan literature.

Question 27. What is meant by Chaitanya’s biographical literature?
Answer:

Chaitanya’s biographical literature:

• Biographical literature on Sri Chaitanya was composed in Bengali.
• We can gather an idea about the daily life of Bengal as well as the life of Sri Chaitanya from them.
• Some notable biographies of Sri Chaitanya are, ‘Chaitanya Bhagavata’ by Vrindavan Das, ‘Chaitanyacharitamrita’ by Krishnadas Kaviraj, ‘Chaitanya Mangal’ by Lochan Das and ‘Chaitanya Mangal’ by Jayananda.

Question 28.  Fatwa-i-Alamgiri?
Answer:

Fatwa-i-Alamgiri:

• Aurangzeb had no liking for literature, but a digest of Muslim law entitled Fatwa-i-Alamgiri was compiled under his patronage.
• The book served as the law and the principal regulatory body of the Mughal empire.
• This book is heralded as the greatest digest of the Muslim law made in India.

WBBSE Chapter 7 Lifestyle And Culture Topic B Sultanate And Mughal Architecture Art Language Literature And Science And Technology Very Short Question And Answers

Question 1. What are the two main features of Islamic architecture?
Answer: Arches and domes are the two main features of the Islamic architecture.

Question 2. Under the rule of which Sultan the construction work of Qutb Minar was completed?
Answer: Under the rule of Iltutmish the construction work of Qutb Minar was completed.

Question 3. Who wrote Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri?
Answer: Jahangir wrote Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri.

Question 4. What is the best example of the Mughal architecture?
Answer: The Tajmahal is the best example of Mughal architecture.

Question 5. Who built the Bibi-ki-Maqbara?
Answer: Aurangzeb built the Bibi-ki-Maqbara.

Question 6. Where is the Charminar located?
Answer: Charminar is located in Hyderabad.

Question 7. What was the capital of Vijaynagar?
Answer: Hampi was the capital of Vijaynagar.

Question 8. Where is the Jod Bangla temple located?
Answer: Jod Bangla temple is located at Bishnupur.

Question 9. Who was called the ‘Parrot of India’?
Answer: Amir Khusrau was called the ‘Parrot of India’.

WBBSE Chapter 7 Lifestyle And Culture Topic B Sultanate And Mughal Architecture Art Language Literature And Science And Technology Fill In The Blanks

Question 1. In the 13th century, the Muslim-ruled capital of Bengal was _____________ (Gauda/Nabadwip/Murshidabad).
Answer: Gauda

Question 2. The system of Rasleela in Manipur began under the Manipur Maharaja _____________  (Krishna Chandra/Bhagya Chandra/Rama Chandra).
Answer: Bhagya Chandra

Question 3. Islam originated in_____________  (Persia/Spain/ Arabia).
Answer: Arabia

Question 4. Under the initiative of Zainul Abedin, king of_____________  (Kashmir/Gujarat/Bengal) the Rajatarangini and Mahabharata were translated into Persian.
Answer: Kashmir

Question 5. Raja Todarmal, translated the_____________  (Vishnu Purana/Matsya Purana/Bhagavata Purana) in Persian.
Answer: Bhagavata Purana

Question 6. In the second half of the 15th century, the technology of guns and pistols came to India from_____________  (Egypt/Arabia/Persia).
Answer: Egypt

Question 7. Sakiya or Persian wheel with belt and gear came to India from_____________  (China/Japan/Persia).
Answer: Persia

WBBSE Chapter 7 Lifestyle And Culture Topic B Sultanate And Mughal Architecture Art Language Literature And Science And Technology True Or False

Question 1. Humayun built his own mausoleum in Sasaram.
Answer: False

Question 2. Adina mosque was built by Sikandar Shah.
Answer: True

Question 3. The classical dance style of India is basically of five types.
Answer: False

Question 4. Kalhan wrote ‘Rajatarangini’.
Answer: True

Question 5. Hasan Nizami was a singer.
Answer: False

Question 6. Gulbadan Begam wrote ‘Humayunnama’.
Answer: True

Question 7. Tajmahal was built by Shah Jahan.
Answer: True

Question 8. Jod Bangla temples are located in Hyderabad.
Answer: False

Question 9. Fatwa-i-Alamgiri was written during the reign of Aurangzeb.
Answer: True

Question 10. Srikrishna Vijay was written by Babu Chandidas.
Answer: False