A. Nastaliq is a cursive calligraphic script of Persian origin that was widely used for administrative and literary works in medieval India.

C. A cess levied by the Mughal rulers

D. A manual of code of conduct for the Ulemas

[Solved] What is Nastaliq? Medieval Persian Calligraphy

Nastaliq was-

[UPSC CSE Pre. 1996]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Calligraphy was considered one of the highest art forms in the Islamic world and was extensively patronized by Mughal emperors.

Authentic Source Evidence

Nastaliq is a cursive, fluid calligraphic style that became the standard script for Persian and later Urdu in South Asia.

Analytical Breakdown

Option A is Correct: It is a 'hanging' script known for its long horizontal strokes and rounded forms.

Logic: Akbar was a great admirer of this script, particularly as written by the master calligrapher Muhammad Husayn of Kashmir.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"How does Nastaliq differ from the Naskh script?"

Naskh is more vertical and legible for printing, while Nastaliq is more aesthetic, slanting, and artistic.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Nastaliq represents the aesthetic synthesis of Persian elegance and Indian artistic patronage during the Mughal era."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Persian Culture 2

Analysing authentic UPSC CSE Pre.previous year questions is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly decoding past exam trends related to Medieval Indian Art (Calligraphy) helps you understand the examiner's mindset. Mastering specific entities like Nastaliq script and Mughal calligraphy builds the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practice Previous Year Questions here →