HIST-7102:  Social and Cultural History of Muslim India (1206-1707)

The course aims at providing knowledge and information to the students about the social and cultural history of South Asia of the aforementioned period. This period witnessed conquering hordes coming from Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Persia almost incessantly and many of them settled permanently in India while others went back after looting and plundering. However, they left indelible imprints on India of the regions that they represented. For instance, Mughals and enriched the cultural landscape of India to an immeasurable extent bringing Central Asian and Persian flavor to it. So the culture of South Asian Society was transformed by this historical fact. India, however, absorbed this cultural onslaught in a way that has no comparison in the world. Students will be taught, in detail, how did this happen. After completion of the course, the students would be able to relate their culture with their ancient and medieval Indian heritage.

Contents:

1. Society and Culture through Ages
2. Composition of Society: Muslims and Hindus
3. Cultural Expressions: Festivities and Ceremonies
4. Indianization of the Communities
5. Men and Morals
6. Social Evils and Moral Breakdowns
7. Muslim Virtues, Accomplishments, Polygamy
8. Moral Excellence and Falling of Community
9. Social Life Reviewed with Reference to Culture
10. Education in Muslim India
11. Architectural Contribution
12. Food Habits and Cuisine
13. Warfare Technology
14. Linguistic Influences 

Recommended Books:

1. Burjor Avari, Islamic Civilization in South Asia, (New York: Routledge, 2013).
2. Meenakshi Khanna, Cultural History of Medieval India, (New Delhi: Social Sciences Press, 2007).

Suggested Books:

1. Om Prakash, Cultural History of India, (New Delhi: New Age International Publishers, 2005).
2. Arthur Basham, Cultural History of India, (New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2015).