U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2013

Akbar's Translation Department

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who translated the Ramayan into the Persian language in accordance with the wishes of Akbar?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Akbar established a translation department (Maktab Khana) to bridge the gap between Hindu and Islamic cultures through literature.

Explanation Abdul Qadir Badauni was commissioned to translate the Ramayana. Interestingly, despite his personal orthodox views, he spent years perfecting this translation.

Logical Breakup
Option B is Correct: Badauni completed the translation in 1589 CE.
Logic: Akbar wanted his Persian-speaking officials to understand the core of Indian ethics and mythology found in the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Active Recall

Question

What was the Persian name for the translated Mahabharata?

Answer

It was called the 'Razmnama' (Book of War).

Core Insight

The translation movement under Akbar was a strategic state policy designed to foster a shared cultural idiom for the ruling elite.