Literature during the Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526) was a rich and diverse field that reflected the cultural, linguistic, and religious dynamics of the period. The era saw the emergence of various literary forms and genres, influenced by Persian, Arabic, and regional Indian traditions.
1. Persian Literature
a. Development and Influence
- Introduction of Persian: Persian became the official language of the Delhi Sultanate, and its use was promoted in administration, culture, and literature. Persian literature flourished and played a significant role in the intellectual life of the Sultanate.
- Royal Patronage: Sultanate rulers, particularly from the Khilji and Tughlaq dynasties, were patrons of Persian literature. They supported poets, historians, and scholars, contributing to the development of a distinctive literary tradition.
b. Major Works and Authors
- Amir Khusrow (1253–1325): Known as the “father of Urdu literature” and a prominent poet of the Delhi Sultanate, Amir Khusrow wrote in Persian and also contributed to the early development of Urdu. His works include:
- Khamsa (Five Poems): A collection of five epic poems that include historical and mythological themes.
- Diwan-i-Khusrow: A collection of his ghazals (lyric poems) which are noted for their lyrical beauty and emotional depth.
- Tughlaq Nama: A historical account of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign, offering insights into the political and social aspects of the time.
- Ziyauddin Barani (1285–1357): A prominent historian and political theorist, Barani is known for his works in Persian that provide valuable insights into the history and politics of the Delhi Sultanate:
- Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi: A historical chronicle covering the reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
- Fatawa-i-Jahandari: A treatise on statecraft and political philosophy.
2. Arabic Literature
a. Religious and Scholarly Works
- Religious Texts: Arabic literature during this period was largely focused on religious texts, including interpretations of the Quran and Hadith. Scholars and clerics wrote commentaries and legal texts that contributed to the intellectual life of the Sultanate.
- Philosophy and Science: Arabic works on philosophy, science, and medicine were translated and studied. This included works by earlier Islamic scholars and philosophers.
3. Regional and Vernacular Literature
a. Emergence of Regional Languages
- Early Development of Urdu: The Delhi Sultanate saw the early development of Urdu, which emerged as a syncretic language blending Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and regional Indian languages. Amir Khusrow is credited with contributing to this early literature in Urdu.
b. Literary Forms
- Poetry: Poetry in the vernacular languages began to take shape, influenced by Persian forms but reflecting local themes and idioms. Early examples include devotional and narrative poetry in regional languages.
- Prose and Historical Accounts: Regional languages also saw the production of historical and literary works, although Persian remained the dominant language for formal literature.
4. Historical and Biographical Literature
a. Historical Chronicles
- Tarikh-i-Mubarak Shahi: An important historical work that provides an account of the reign of Mubarak Shah.
- Tarikh-i-Daudi: A historical account related to the early Sultanate period.
b. Biographies and Memoirs
- Biographical Accounts: Some biographical works and memoirs were written by and about notable figures of the Sultanate, providing personal and political insights into their lives.
5. Literary Patronage and Institutions
a. Royal Patronage
- Support for Writers: Sultanate rulers, particularly from the Khilji and Tughlaq dynasties, were patrons of literature and supported poets, historians, and scholars. This patronage contributed to the flourishing of Persian literature.
- Cultural Centers: Royal courts and administrative centers served as hubs of literary activity, where poets and scholars gathered and worked under the patronage of the Sultan.
b. Educational Institutions
- Madrasas and Libraries: The Sultanate established madrasas (Islamic schools) and libraries that played a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of literary works. These institutions were centers of learning and intellectual exchange.
6. Influence and Legacy
a. Cultural Synthesis
- Blending of Traditions: The literature of the Delhi Sultanate reflected a blending of Persian, Arabic, and Indian cultural and literary traditions. This synthesis laid the foundation for later literary developments in the Mughal period and beyond.
b. Influence on Mughal Literature
- Continuity and Evolution: The literary traditions of the Delhi Sultanate influenced the Mughal Empire, which succeeded it. The Mughal rulers continued the patronage of Persian literature and incorporated elements of Sultanate literary culture into their own courtly traditions.
Conclusion
Literature under the Delhi Sultanate was a vibrant and evolving field marked by the flourishing of Persian literature, the development of early Urdu, and the production of historical and scholarly works. The Sultanate’s patronage and support for literary activities contributed to a rich cultural heritage that influenced subsequent periods in Indian history. The literary achievements of the Delhi Sultanate reflect the complex interplay of cultural and intellectual currents during this era.
