Medieval Indian history is divided into two main periods – Early Medieval (A.D. 700 to 1200) and Later Medieval (A.D. 1200 to 1700). The key sources of medieval Indian history are as follows:
Historical Sources
Historians utilise multiple sources to reconstruct events. These sources are classified into primary and secondary categories:
- Primary Sources: Inscriptions, monuments, and coins.
- Secondary Sources: Books, travel narratives, and autobiographies.
Primary sources provide direct evidence, while secondary sources offer interpretations and analyses.
Inscriptions
Inscriptions are writings carved into durable materials like stone or metal. They often include royal decrees, dedications, and records of land grants. For example, the types of land grants from the Chola dynasty include:
- Vellanvagai: Land for non-Brahmin owners.
- Brahmadeya: Land given to Brahmins.
- Shalabhoga: Land for educational institutions.
- Devadana: Land donated to temples.
- Pallichchandam: Land for Jaina institutions.
Copper-plate grants served as official documents detailing gifts and their recipients, particularly during ancient and medieval India.
Stone Inscriptions
Stone inscriptions often glorify the donor rather than providing a comprehensive view of society. Notable examples include the Tiruvalangadu plates and the inscriptions from Uttiramerur, which detail village governance.
Monuments and Architecture
Monuments, including temples, forts, and mosques, reflect the architectural evolution during this era. The Delhi Sultans introduced arches and domes, while notable structures include:
- Khajuraho Temples: Symbolise cultural changes in northern India.
- Chola Temples: Brihadeshwara and Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu.
- Vijayanagara Temples: Vitala and Virupaksha temples in Hampi.
- Mosques: Quwwat-ul Islam Masjid and Jama Masjid in Delhi.
- Forts: Agra Fort, Gwalior Fort and countless other forts in all parts of India.
Coins as Historical Evidence
Coins are valuable historical sources, featuring kings’ names, titles, and symbols. They reveal economic conditions and military achievements. For instance, Muhammad Ghori’s gold coins depicted Goddess Lakshmi, indicating a blend of religious beliefs. Key coins include:
- Copper Jitals: Used during the Delhi Sultanate.
- Silver Tanka: Introduced by Iltutmish.
- Gold Coins: Issued by Ala-ud-din Khalji.
Religious Literature
The Bhakti movement sparked the creation of devotional literature. Key texts include:
- KambaRamayanam: A Tamil epic.
- Devaram: Composed by saints like Appar and Sambandar.
- Thiruvasagam: Written by Manikkavasakar.
- Gita Govindam: A 12th-century work by Jayadeva.
Accounts by Arab and Turkish Writers
Several foreign accounts provide vital information about Indian history. Kalhana’s “Rajatarangini” is a notable pre-Islamic record. Other works include:
- Tabakat-i-Nasiri: Written by Minhaj-us-Siraj.
- Taj-ul-Ma’asir: Authored by Hasan Nizami.
- Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi: By Zia-ud-Barni.
Travel Accounts
Travelers like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta documented their experiences in India. Ibn Battuta’s “Rihla” describes the vibrant trade and cultural practices he observed. His account marks the caste system and the practice of sati. Other notable travelers include:
- Nicolo Conti: Visited the Pandya kingdom.
- Abdur-Razzaq: Documented the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Domingo Paes: Explored the grandeur of Vijayanagara.
Vernacular Literature
The medieval period saw the rise of vernacular literature. Regional languages like Bengali, Gujarati, and Telugu flourished. This expansion promoted communication and cultural exchange. Key literary works include:
- Ramcharitmanas: Written by Tulsidas.
- Amuktamalyada: A Telugu epic by Krishnadevaraya.
- Manucharitam: By Allasani Peddanna.
Significant Historical Texts
Several important historical texts emerged during this period. They provide vital information about various aspects of society, politics, and culture. Notable works include:
- Mattavilasa Prahasana: A satirical play by Mahendravarman I.
- Kavyadharsha: A treatise on poetry by Dhandin.
- Adipurana: A Kannada text by Adikavi Pampa.
- Akbarnama: The official history of Akbar’s reign.
Key Authors and Their Contributions
Numerous authors played very important roles in shaping medieval literature. Their works reflect the socio-political dynamics of their times. Some key authors include:
- Babur: His memoirs provide vital information about Mughal foundations.
- Gulbadan Begum: Authored “Humayun-Nama,” detailing her brother’s life.
- Mirza Muhammad Qazim: Wrote “Alamgir-Nama,” chronicling Aurangzeb’s reign.
