U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2015

Mughal Court Culture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who was the 'Poet-Laureate' of Shah Jahan's reign?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The Mughal court maintained the Persian tradition of appointing a 'Malik-ush-Shuara' (Poet Laureate) who composed panegyrics and chronicles for the Emperor.

Explanation Abu Talib Kalim Kashani was the most celebrated poet of Shah Jahan's court. He was granted the title of Malik-ush-Shuara.

Logical Breakup
Option A is Correct: Kalim is best known for his 'Diwan' and his poetic contribution to the visual and literary glory of Shah Jahan's reign.
Logic: He successfully synthesized Safavid Persian styles with the emerging Indian aesthetics (Sabka-e-Hindi).

Active Recall

Question

What was the official title for a poet laureate in the Mughal court?

Answer

The title was 'Malik-ush-Shuara', literally meaning 'King of Poets'.

Core Insight

The presence of a poet laureate ensured that the Emperor's legacy was preserved not just in stone (monuments) but in the rhythmic permanence of verse.