In what ways has the meaning of the term “Hindustan” changed over the centuries?
Over the centuries there has been a vast change in the meaning of the term “Hindustan”.
1. Today “Hindustan” is understood as India, the modern nation state.
2. In the 13th century the term is used in political context for the lands under the Delhi Sultanate like Punjab, Haryana and area between Ganga and yamuna.
3. In 16th century Babur and Amir khusro used the term “Hindustan” to describe the geography, culture and fauna of the subcontinent.