Late in the sixteenth century, Golconda was the wealthiest Deccan kingdom. This was largely due to brisk trade from its east coast ports. Which goods were shipped from there to South East Asia?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Iron and cotton goods
Option (1) Diamonds and gold jewellery — Incorrect. Diamonds were discovered early in the seventeenth century and added to revenue. Gold jewellery is what Golconda pictures show on women and men.
Option (2) Painted cottons and carpets — Incorrect. Painted cottons come in with the trade with Persia, which became a rage in Europe. Carpets appear in the Diwan of Hafiz pages.
Option (3) Iron and cotton goods — Correct. From the east coast ports, iron and cotton goods were shipped to South East Asia.
Option (4) Deccani swords and gold — Incorrect. The long, straight Deccani sword is held by the young ruler in the Diwan of Hafiz pages, which are enriched with gold. Neither is named as goods shipped to South East Asia.
NCERT (2026-27): “Golconda School of Painting Golconda became an independent state in 1512. By the end of the sixteenth century, it was the wealthiest of the Deccan kingdoms. This was largely due to brisk trade from the ports along the east coast, from where iron and cotton goods were shipped to South East Asia. Meanwhile expansive trade continued with Persia, which became a rage in Europe and was greatly valued among painted cottons. Early in the seventeenth century, diamonds were discovered, expanding the source of revenue…” |