Mughal Cultural Exchange

Razmnama: The Book of War and Mahabharata

The 'Razmnama' (The Book of War) is the 16th-century Persian translation of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, commissioned by Emperor Akbar.

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

Archived: 2016

Updated: 17 Jan 2026

Exam Year

2016

Evidence Source

Link ↗

The Persian translation of Mahabharata, which was done in the 16th century is called-

[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2016]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

As part of his cultural synthesis policy (Sulh-i-Kul), Akbar established the 'Maktab Khana' to translate major Sanskrit works into Persian to foster understanding among the ruling elite.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Persian translation of the Mahabharata is called the Razmnama (The Book of War). It was completed in 1582-1584 CE with contributions from Badauni, Naqib Khan, and Faizi.

Analytical Breakdown

Option B is Correct: Razmnama features exquisite miniature paintings by Mughal court artists.

Logic: Other titles refer to different chronicles: Alamgirnama (Aurangzeb), Hamzanama (Heroic tales of Hamza), and Badshahnama (Shah Jahan).

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who provided the poetic preface for the Razmnama?"

Faizi, the poet laureate and brother of Abul Fazl, provided the Persian poetic preface to the work.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Razmnama project was a massive collaborative effort involving both Sanskrit pundits and Persian scholars, representing a peak of Indo-Islamic intellectual fusion."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Akbar 6 Badauni 3 Maktab Khana 8

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