Linguistic Evolution in India

Amir Khusrau: Originator of Khari Boli Hindi

Amir Khusrau played a pioneering role in the development of Khari Boli, which is the direct ancestor of modern standard Hindi.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part II

Archived:

Updated:

Amir Khusrau played a pioneering role in the development of-

[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2002]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Khari Boli is the prestige dialect of the Delhi-Meerut region that eventually evolved into modern standard Hindi and Urdu.

Authentic Source Evidence


Amir Khusrau (13th-14th century) is often called the 'Father of Khari Boli'. He was the first prominent poet to use this vernacular for literary and musical expression.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Option C is Correct: While he was a master of Persian, his 'Hindavi' compositions in Khari Boli made literature accessible to the common people.

  • Context: His riddles (Paheliyan) and couplets are among the earliest recorded examples of this linguistic transition.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Why is Khari Boli significant for modern India?"

    It serves as the grammatical and lexical basis for both Standard Hindi and Standard Urdu.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Khusrau's genius lay in his ability to identify the commercial and social utility of a common 'link language' in the heart of the Sultanate."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Analysing authentic U.P.P.C.S. (Pre)previous year questions is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly decoding past exam trends related to Linguistic Evolution in India helps you understand the examiner's mindset. Mastering specific entities like Amir Khusrau Khari Boli and Father of Hindi builds the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practice Previous Year Questions here →

    UPSC Question Bank | Verified
    Live Archive Status