U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2002

Linguistic Evolution in India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Amir Khusrau played a pioneering role in the development of-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Khari Boli is the prestige dialect of the Delhi-Meerut region that eventually evolved into modern standard Hindi and Urdu.

Explanation Amir Khusrau (13th-14th century) is often called the 'Father of Khari Boli'. He was the first prominent poet to use this vernacular for literary and musical expression.

Logical Breakup
Option C is Correct: While he was a master of Persian, his 'Hindavi' compositions in Khari Boli made literature accessible to the common people.
Context: His riddles (Paheliyan) and couplets are among the earliest recorded examples of this linguistic transition.

Active Recall

Question

Why is Khari Boli significant for modern India?

Answer

It serves as the grammatical and lexical basis for both Standard Hindi and Standard Urdu.

Core Insight

Khusrau's genius lay in his ability to identify the commercial and social utility of a common 'link language' in the heart of the Sultanate.