UPSC CSE Pre. 2006, GS Paper I

Mughal Historiography

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In Indian history, who was Abdul Hamid Lahori?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept The Mughal period saw the rise of 'Official History' (Tarikh) commissioned by emperors to document their reigns.

Explanation Abdul Hamid Lahori was commissioned by Shah Jahan to write the history of his rule, modeled after the Akbarnama.

Logical Breakup
Option B is Correct: He is the author of the 'Padshahnamah', a monumental work detailing the first two decades of Shah Jahan's reign.
Context: He was a pupil of Abul Fazl's style and focused on the grandeur of the Mughal court and architecture.

Active Recall

Question

What is the significance of the Padshahnamah manuscripts?

Answer

They are famous for their exquisite miniature paintings that depict court life, battles, and construction of monuments like the Taj Mahal.

Core Insight

Lahori's work transitioned Mughal history from a mere chronicle to a highly stylized visual and literary propaganda tool.