UPSC CSE Pre 2022

Mughal Cultural Contributions

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

'Yogavasistha' was translated into Persian by Nizamuddin Panipati during the reign of:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Akbar’s reign was characterized by a policy of 'Sulh-i-kul' (universal peace) and cultural synthesis. He established a specialized department to translate Sanskrit classics into Persian to bridge the cultural gap between the ruling elite and the Indian masses.

Explanation Nizamuddin Panipati translated the 'Yogavasistha'—a philosophical text on Vedanta—into Persian during Akbar's time. He dedicated this work to Prince Salim (the future Jahangir). This was part of Akbar's broader initiative, including the 'Maktab Khana' (Translation Bureau) founded in 1574-75 at Fatehpur Sikri.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Akbar believed that understanding Indian religious texts would foster better governance. The translation of the Yogavasistha was an extension of the Ramayana translation project.
Logic 2: While Shah Jahan and later Dara Shikoh also showed interest in Upanishadic philosophy, this specific translation by Nizamuddin Panipati belongs to the early systematic efforts under Akbar's direct patronage.

Active Recall

Question

What was the purpose of the 'Maktab Khana' in Akbar's court?

Answer

It was a royal translation bureau established to translate various Sanskrit, Arabic, and Turkish texts into Persian to preserve knowledge and promote cultural harmony.

Core Insight

The translation of the Yogavasistha highlights that the Mughal court was not just a political center, but a hub for intellectual exchange and Vedantic philosophy.