Later Mughal Historiography

Matching Aurangzeb's Historians to Persian Texts

Bhimsen wrote Tarikh-i-Dilkusha, Chandrabhan authored Chahar Chaman, Ishwardas Nagar wrote Futuhat-i-Alamgiri, and Sujanrai Bhandari authored Khulasat-ut-Tawarikh.

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

Archived:

Updated:

Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List-I
A. Bhimsen Kayestha
B. Chandrabhan Brahman
C. Ishwardas Nagar
D. Sujanrai Bhandari
List-II
1. Chahar Chaman
2. Futuhat-i-Alamgiri
3. Khulasat-ut-Tawarikh
4. Tarikh-i-Dilkusha

[UPPCS (Mains) 2017]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The reign of Aurangzeb, despite his personal austerity, saw the production of vital Persian historical records by non-Muslim officers.

Authentic Source Evidence


Key works: Bhimsen's 'Tarikh-i-Dilkusha' (memoirs of Deccan wars) and Ishwardas Nagar's 'Futuhat-i-Alamgiri' (events up to 1698).

Analytical Breakdown


  • A-4: Bhimsen wrote Tarikh-i-Dilkusha, providing a soldier’s perspective on the Deccan campaigns.

  • B-1: Chandrabhan Brahman authored Chahar Chaman, reflecting a blend of Sufism and historical prose.

  • C-2: Ishwardas Nagar wrote Futuhat-i-Alamgiri, covering administration in Malwa and Rajputana.

  • D-3: Sujan Rai Bhandari wrote Khulasat-ut-Tawarikh, a comprehensive history ending with Aurangzeb’s accession.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Who translated Bhimsen's Tarikh-i-Dilkusha into English?"

    The famous historian Sir Jadunath Sarkar translated it.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The fact that these primary records of a conservative emperor were written by Hindus highlights the deep bureaucratic integration in the Mughal state."

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