‘‘The idea of Sulh-i Kul (absolute peace) was the cornerstone of enlightened rule.’’ Explain the statement of Abul Fazl concerning Akbar’s Empire.

OR

‘‘Mughals transmitted their grand vision through the writing of dynastic histories.’’ Explain the statement with reference to the Akbar Nama and Badshah Nama.

‘‘The idea of Sulh-i Kul (absolute peace) was the cornerstone of

enlightened rule.’’ This statement is explained below:

1. The Mughal Empire had many different ethnic and religious communities of Hindus, Muslims, Jains, etc.

2. In Sulh I Kul, all the religious School of thoughts had the freedom of expression but it was on the condition that did not undermine the authority of the state or fight among themselves.

3. The king was above all the religions and ethnic groups as a source of peace and stability in the region.

4. This idea was experimented by many state policies where the nobility of Turans, Rajput, Afghanis, and Deccanis were given positions and Awards based on the service and loyalty towards the king.

5. Instructions were sent to the officials to follow the principle of Sulh I kul in administration.

6. Akbar abolished the Jizta tax which was based on religious discrimination.

7. He gave grants to sulh I Kul buildings in places of worship irrespective of the religion that followed.

OR

‘Mughals transmitted their grand vision through the writing of dynastic histories.’’ This statement is explained below:

1. Each manuscript contained an average of 120 full or double-page paintings of Battles, Court scenes, construction of buildings and hunts.

2. The chronicle is based on many sources including actual records of the events, official documents and oral testimony of knowledgeable people.

3. The political significant events were recorded over time.

4. It gave a chronological picture of all the aspects of the Akbar's Empire including geographical, cultural, social and administrative aspects.

5. Abul Fazal gave a lot of importance to diction and rhythm in his works.

6. A detailed description of Akbar's life could be obtained by Akbar Nama.

7. Badshah Nama was also written which was a similar tale of Akbar's reign by Abdul Hamid Lahori.

8. The 3 volumes were later revised by Shah Jahan's Wazir Sadulla Khan.