[Solved] Gulbadan Begum: Author of Humayun Nama | Concept & Explanation

Who among the following wrote historical records in the Mughal period?

[UPSC CSE Pre. 1994]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Mughal literature includes not only court chronicles by men but also intimate, historical memoirs written by royal women.

Authentic Source Evidence

Gulbadan Begum, daughter of Babur, was requested by Akbar to record her memories of the reigns of Babur and Humayun to assist Abul Fazl.

Analytical Breakdown

Option A is Correct: Her work 'Humayun Nama' provides a rare 'domestic' view of the Mughal household and political struggles.

Others: Nur Jahan was a political powerhouse but didn't write a history; Jahanara wrote a biography of a Sufi saint; Zebunnisa was a renowned poet but not a historian.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What makes Humayun Nama unique compared to Akbarnama?"

It offers an insider's perspective on the personal lives, tensions, and ceremonies within the Mughal family.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Gulbadan Begum’s contribution proves that Mughal royal women were highly literate and played a role in preserving the empire's memory."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

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