Question

What role did Amir Khusrau play in the evolution of Indian music during the medieval period?

• A. He banned the use of Persian musical elements in Indian compositions.
• B. He was a prominent figure who introduced new ragas and instruments, contributing significantly to the fusion of Indian and Persian music traditions.
• C. He was a Bhakti saint who rejected court patronage.
• D. D. He compiled the Ain-e-Akbari, a key text on Mughal music.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. He was a prominent figure who introduced new ragas and instruments, contributing significantly to the fusion of Indian and Persian music traditions.

Bhakti Movement’s Contribution: The real credit for the development of music in medieval India goes to the Bhakti movement. Bhakti saints introduced new musical instruments and ragas (compositions), with Amir Khusrau being a prominent example. Mughal Patronage: With the rise of the Mughals, music flourished under royal patronage. Emperors like Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan were its foremost supporters. Akbar’s Court Musicians: Ain-e-Akbari by Abul Fazl records 36 court musicians during Akbar’s reign, including Shihab Khan and Purbin Khan. Akbar also brought Tansen, the legendary musician credited with creating Raga Deepak, from Raja Man Singh’s court. Shah Jahan’s Influence: A skilled singer himself, Shah Jahan actively promoted Hindustani classical music in the Mughal court. Aurangzeb’s Stance: Though Aurangzeb was a veena player, he later discontinued his court musicians due to economic constraints.