Mughal period saw development in the literature of the Regional languages including Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, and Gujarati. They played a vital role in literature, music, and spiritual movements.
The Rise of Hindi
Hindi emerged as regional language during medieval India. It evolved from Sanskrit and became a means of communication for the masses. The 14th century saw poets like Amir Khusro, who blended Hindi with Persian, creating “Hindvi.” His works made Hindi more accessible, enriching its literary landscape.
Influential Hindi Poets
Kabir (who lived during transition from Sultanate to Mughal Era) was a prominent figure in Hindi literature. His couplets, or “Dohas,” conveyed social and spiritual themes in simple language. Surdas, Tulsidas, and Mirabai contributed to the “Bhakti” movement, expressing devotion through songs and poetry. Tulsidas’ “Ramcharitmanas” remains a cherished epic in Hindi literature.
Hindi’s Impact on Society
Hindi influenced various regional dialects and became foundational for many modern Indian languages. Braj Bhasha, a dialect influenced by Hindi, became the language of Krishna-related compositions. Additionally, Hindi was used in administrative records during the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, reflecting its growing importance.
The Emergence of Urdu
Urdu developed in the 13th century during Sultanate era as a result of cultural exchanges between Persian-speaking rulers and local communities. Its name, meaning “camp” in Turkish, marks its origins in military settings. Urdu later became a lingua franca, facilitating communication among diverse groups.
The Linguistic Influence on Urdu
Urdu absorbed vocabulary from Persian, Arabic, and regional languages, creating a rich linguistic tapestry. Persian provided the structural foundation, while Arabic influenced religious and philosophical expressions. This blend made Urdu a unique medium for artistic and spiritual expression.
Flourishing Urdu Literature
The medieval period witnessed the rise of Urdu poetry. Renowned poets like Mirza Ghalib and Allama Iqbal expressed deep emotions and philosophical thoughts. Their works contributed to Urdu’s reputation as a language of beauty and depth.
The Development of Punjabi
Punjabi literature emerged between the 13th and 16th centuries. This period saw the rise of Sufi and Bhakti poetry alongside heroic ballads. Baba Farid’s Sufi compositions laid the groundwork for Punjabi poetry, while Guru Nanak’s hymns structured the language further.
Contributions to Punjabi Literature
The Gurumukhi script was introduced by Guru Angad, enhancing Punjabi’s literary capabilities. The language became a vehicle for spiritual expression, with many poets contributing to its rich tradition, including those from diverse backgrounds.
The Evolution of Bengali
Bengali’s earliest literature dates back to the Charyapads, written between the 10th and 12th centuries. The Turkish conquest of Bengal in the 13th century spurred the decline of Sanskrit and the rise of folk themes. By the 15th century, three major trends in Bengali literature emerged.
Major Trends in Bengali Literature
These trends included Mangala kavya, adaptations of epics, and Vaishnav bhakti poetry. Chandidas was a notable poet of the Vaishnava movement, while translations of Sanskrit texts into Bengali flourished under the patronage of rulers like Sultan Husain Shah.
The Odia Language’s Development
Odia emerged as a literary language in the 13th and 14th centuries. Saraladasa, a prominent poet, authored the Odia Mahabharata. The Vaishnava bhakti movement in the 16th century further enriched Oriya literature, with many texts translated from Sanskrit.
Key Figures in Odia Literature
Jagannath Das, a close associate of Chaitanya, translated the Bhagavata Purana into Odia. His work became popular among the people of Odisha, showcasing the language’s growth during this period.
The Growth of Marathi Literature
Marathi literature began to develop in the latter half of the 13th century. Early works were influenced by the Nathpanthi tradition. Mukundaraj was poet, known for writing in a common language that resonated with the people.
Influences on Early Marathi Literature
The Mahanubhava religion also shaped Marathi literature, contributing to its lexicography and poetic forms. This period marked the beginning of devotional literature in Marathi, reflecting the spiritual sentiments of the time.
The Evolution of Gujarati Literature
Gujarati literature began to take shape until the mid-15th century. Two primary genres emerged – prabandha, narrative poems, and muktaka, brief poems. These works often blended historical themes with fiction and mythology.
The Role of Vaishnava Bhakti in Gujarati Literature
The latter half of the 15th century saw the rise of Vaishnava bhakti poetry in Gujarati. Narasimha Mehta, a key poet, spread the message of Vaishnavism through his lyrical compositions.
Language and Administration
While Sanskrit dominated formal administration, regional languages were increasingly used for local governance. This shift allowed for better communication and documentation at the grassroots level, reflecting the languages’ growing status.
Cultural Significance of Regional Languages
Regional languages were crucial in expressing local cultures and traditions. They provided a platform for diverse voices and narratives, enriching India’s cultural landscape. The literary contributions of these languages continue to resonate in contemporary society.
The Bhakti Movement’s Influence
The Bhakti movement impacted regional languages. It encouraged poets to write in their mother tongues, making spiritual teachings more accessible to the masses. This movement encourageed a sense of unity among different communities.
