Literature under the Lodi Dynasty

Sikandar Lodi Pen Name | Gulrukhi Persian Poems

Sikandar Lodi composed Persian poetry under the pen name 'Gulrukhi'. He was a significant patron of art, music, and medical literature during his reign.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

Archived: 2015

Updated: 25 Sept 2025

Exam Year

2015

Evidence Source

UPSC Level

Who among the following composed poems with the penname 'Gulrukhi'?

[U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2015]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Sikandar Lodi was not only a stern administrator but also a deeply cultured individual who promoted Persian learning and was himself an accomplished poet.

Authentic Source Evidence

Historical chronicles state that Sikandar Lodi wrote numerous Persian verses under the pseudonym 'Gulrukhi' (Flower-faced) and patronized a renaissance in poetry and music.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: His interest in literature led to the translation of Sanskrit works on medicine and music into Persian (e.g., Lahdjat-i-Sikandar Shahi).

Logic 2: Using a pen name was a common tradition among medieval monarchs who sought to express personal or spiritual thoughts outside their official capacity.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What city was founded by Sikandar Lodi in 1504?"

He founded the city of Agra to maintain better control over the rebellious local chiefs of the Doab and Rajasthan.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Sikandar Lodi's patronage helped bridge the cultural gap by commissioning translations of Indic knowledge into the state's Persian language."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Agra City 2 Persianization 3

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