Akbar commissioned several translated and illustrated manuscripts. What is the Akbar Nama?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → A detailed account of Akbar’s political and personal life
Option (1) A Persian translation of the Mahabharata made for Akbar — Incorrect. The Persian translation of the Mahabharata is the Razm Nama, completed in 1589 under the master artist Daswant.
Option (2) A detailed account of Akbar’s political and personal life — Correct. The Akbar Nama holds a detailed account of Akbar’s political and personal life. It was one of his most expensive projects.
Option (3) An account of the heroic deeds of Hamza, read out to Akbar — Incorrect. The heroic deeds of Hamza, uncle of Prophet Muhammad, are told in the Hamza Nama, begun by Humayun and continued by Akbar.
Option (4) A Persian translation of the Ramayana made for Akbar — Incorrect. The Ramayana was also translated and illustrated in this period. It is a Hindu epic, not an account of Akbar’s life.
NCERT (2026-27): “The Mughal School of Miniature Painting …The Persian translation and illustrated version of the Hindu epic Mahabharata done this period came to be known as Razm Nama. This was completed in 1589 under the supervision of master artist Daswant. This manuscript was scribed in ornate calligraphy and contained 169 paintings. The translation and illustration of the Ramayana were also carried out around this time. Artists like Govardhan and Miskin were celebrated for their visuals of court scenes. Akbar Nama, an extraordinary manuscript, containing a detailed account of Akbar’s political and personal life, was one of the most expensive projects undertaken by Akbar.” |