A. Nastaliq is a cursive calligraphic script of Persian origin that was widely used for administrative and literary works in medieval India.

C. A cess levied by the Mughal rulers

D. A manual of code of conduct for the Ulemas

UPSC CSE Pre. 1996

Medieval Indian Art (Calligraphy)

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Nastaliq was-

Answer: A

Concept Calligraphy was considered one of the highest art forms in the Islamic world and was extensively patronized by Mughal emperors.

Explanation Nastaliq is a cursive, fluid calligraphic style that became the standard script for Persian and later Urdu in South Asia.

Logical Breakup

Option A is Correct: It is a 'hanging' script known for its long horizontal strokes and rounded forms.

Logic: Akbar was a great admirer of this script, particularly as written by the master calligrapher Muhammad Husayn of Kashmir.

Question

How does Nastaliq differ from the Naskh script?

Answer

Naskh is more vertical and legible for printing, while Nastaliq is more aesthetic, slanting, and artistic.

Nastaliq represents the aesthetic synthesis of Persian elegance and Indian artistic patronage during the Mughal era.