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Kings And Chronicles : The Mughal Courts
Describe briefly how the interpretations of the Sharia changed with time.
The interpretations of Sharia (total collection of Islamic law) changed with time. Virtually all these religious traditions continue to flourish to date. This continuity has certain advantages for historians as it allow them to compare contemporay practices with those described in textual traditions or shown in old paintings and to trace change. At the same time, because these traditions are part of people's lived beliefs and practices, there is often lack of acceptance of the possibility that these may have changed over time. The challenge for historians is to under take such invetigations with sensitivity, while at the same time recognising that religious traditions, like other traditions, are dynamic and change over time.
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What were the concerns that shaped Mughal policies and attitudes towards regions outside the subcontinent?
Discuss the major features of Mughal provincial administration. How did the centre control the provinces?
Discuss, with examples, the distinctive features of Mughal chronicles.
To what extent do you think the visual material presented in this chapter corresponds with Abu’l Fazl’s description of the taswir (Source 1)?
What were the distinctive features of the Mughal nobility? How was their relationship with the emperor shaped?
Identify the elements that went into the making of the Mughal ideal of kingship.
Find out more about any one Mughal chronicle. Prepare a report describing the author, and the language, style and content of the text. Describe at
least two visuals used to illustrate the chronicle of your choice, focusing on the symbols used to indicate the power of the emperor.
Prepare a report comparing the present-day system of government with the Mughal court and administration, focusing on ideals of rulership, court rituals, and means of recruitment into the imperial service, highlighting the similarities and differences that you notice.
Why did Akbar abolish the pilgrimage tax? Give two reasons.
Mention the significance of Sijda in the Mughal court.
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