Government of Karnataka

SOCIAL SCIENCE
PART - I
ENGLISH MEDIUM
(Revised)

7
SEVENTH STANDARD

KARNATAKA TEXTBOOK SOCIETY (R.)

100 Feet Ring Road, Banashankari 3rd Stage,
Bengaluru - 560 085.
 Preface

The Textbook Society, Karnataka, has been engaged in producing

new textbooks according to the new syllabi which in turn are designed on
NCF - 2005 since June 2010. Textbooks are prepared in 12 languages; seven
of them serve as the media of instruction. From Standard 1 to 4 there is
the EVS, mathematics and 5th to 10th there are three core subjects, namely,
mathematics, science and social science.

NCF - 2005 has a number of special features and they are:

 connecting knowledge to life activities.

 learning to shift from rote methods.

 enriching the curriculum beyond textbooks.

 learning experiences for the construction of knowledge.

 making examinations flexible and integrating them with classroom

experiences.

 caring concerns within the democratic policy of the country.

 making education relevant to the present and future needs.

 softening the subject boundaries-integrated knowledge and the joy of

learning.

 the child is the constructor of knowledge.

The new books are produced based on three fundamental approaches

namely, Constructive approach, Spiral approach and Intergrated approach.

The learner is encouraged to think, engage in activities, master skills

and competencies. The materials presented in these books are integrated
with values. The new books are not examination oriented in their nature. On
the other hand they help the learner in the all round development of his/her
personality, thus help him/her become a healthy member of a healthy society
and a productive citizen of this great country, India.

ii
 Mathematics is essential in the study of various subjects and in real life.
NCF 2005 proposes moving away from complete calculations, construction
of a framework of concepts, relate mathematics to real life experiences and
cooperative learning. Many students have a maths phobia and in order to help
them overcome this phobia, jokes, puzzles, riddles, stories and games have
been included in textbooks. Each concept is intoduced through an activity
or an interesting story at the primary level. The contributions of great Indian
mathematicians are mentioned at appropriate places.

We live in an age of Science and Technology. During the past five

decades man has achieved great things and realized his dreams and reached
pinnacle of glory. He has produced everything to make life comfortable.
In the same way he has given himself to pleasures and reached the stage
in which he seems to have forgotten basic sciences. We hope that at least
a good number of young learners take to science in higher studies and
become leading scientists and contribute their share to the existing stock
of knowledge in order to make life prosperous. Ample opportunity has been
given to learners to think, read, discuss and learn on their own with very
little help from teachers. Learning is expected to be activity centered with the
learners doing experiments, assignments and projects.

7th standard Social Science Textbook has been prepared based on the
prescribed syllabus. And all the features of NCF 2005 and KCF 2007 have
been included in the Text Book. This new Text Book has given importance to
enhance the creativity of students by including activities. Many projects are
included to help students to gain knowledge. This Text Book has been written
in such a way that students need not memorise historical dates and other
information.

The Textbook Society expresses grateful thanks to the Chairpersons,

Writers, Scrutinisers, Artists, Staff of DIETs and CTEs and the Members of
the Editorial Board and Printers in helping the Textbook Society in producing
these textbooks.

Prof. G.S. Mudambadithaya Nagendra Kumar

Co-ordinator Managing Director
Curriculum Revision and Textbook Preparation Karnataka Textbook Society
Karnataka Textbook Society Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Bengaluru, Karnataka.

iii
 Chairperson's Note
‘Yesterday, today and tomorrow are inseparable parts of the present’ so says
great Allamaprabhu. History flows like an invisible river. Now and then it shows
itself in its mortal and sometimes in an infinite form. It may appear as individuals,
happening or in the form of certain values. The entire social fabric of the world is
split into factions such as religions, colour, gender, language, the rich, the poor and
raise its ugly heads in different identities. People have begun creating history of their
own through various forms of conflicting details. As a result of this tendency history
is not allowed to grow in all its true realities. Being a part of history, man has been
trying to create new branches of this great tree of history. On the other hand history
is like a chain in which every link represents a generation and these generations go
on adding to the existing ones. As a result of this, we have to recognize that history
has become a complex discipline. Basically history is a continuum. We can master
our competence to understand History only by constant and deep study.
History is as vast as Time. In this book we deal with the continents of Asia, Eu-
rope and America. We have yet to study the various features of Africa, South America
and Australia. A lot of research works have been going on in different fields of human
endeavor and it is a challenge at least to give a bird’s-eye-view of the results of these
research works in our textbooks. Though we follow the spiral approach, our course
becomes highly scientific and intricate.
The VII syllabus deals with Asia and Europe. We have made an earnest effort to
acquaint the learners with the details of special geographical features of these conti-
nents. Indian History has been dealt with in greater detail keeping in mind the latest
research findings in various aspects of history. As the syllabus is vast, naturally the
pages have become more. It was a problem for writers to decide the depth and extent
of details of the materials to be presented in the book.
We faced another problem while designing the book. It was how to present the
sensitive issues such as religions, castes and gender. Ours is a multifaceted society.
The learners at this level are sensitive to such issues. Therefore we have made a sin-
cere and an objective effort to help learners realize the learning objectives to the best
of our ability.
We would like to share the following points with classroom teachers
• The VII textbook is a continuation of V and VI standard textbooks. Therefore teach-
ers have to keep in mind the portions covered in classes V and VI
• Portion to be covered is indicated using icons at the beginning and end of each
chapter. Information given in the boxes is not to be tested in the examination. Box
items come under the ‘going beyond the syllabus’, part of the curricular.
• At the beginning of each chapter a list of competencies to be master by the stu-
dents is given. It is for the guidance of teachers. They have to see that learners have
to master the competencies.
• Teachers are expected to bring to the notice of the chief coordinator, the good
points and deficiencies well in time so that deficiencies may be set right in the next
edition of the textbook. We welcome such suggestions from parents as well.
• Our grateful thanks to all those who have helped us in preparing this textbook.
Dr. Aswathanarayana
Chairperson
Textbook Preparation Committee

iv
 Textbook Committee
Chairperson : Dr. Aswathanarayana, Associate Professor, History
Dept., Gnanabharathi Campus Bengaluru Universcity ,
Bengaluru 560056.

Members : Sri M.N. Katti, Lecturer In Geography, Govt P.U. College,

B.P.Vadiya Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru-560026
Sri N. Ningaraju, Lecturer, Govt P.U.College, Yalahanka,
Bengaluru
Sri Y. Ramakrishna Rao, Lecturer In Political Science,
Govt. P.U.College, Ermalu Bada Post, Udupi Dist-574119
Sri S.B. Kadakoladavar, Asst. Teacher, Vidyaranya P.U.
College,High School Section, Dharawad-1
Smt K.V. Shilpa, Asst. Teacher, Higher Primary
School,Channaiahna Kote, Viraj Pet Taluq, Madikeri(D)
Artist : Sri Taranath Kairangal, Drawing Teacher,
Govt. High School, Manchikolnad, Bantwal Tq. D.K. Dist.

Scrutinizers : Sri Raghavendra Prabhu M., Associate Professor,

History (Retd.), Dambel, Ashoknagar, Mangaluru.
Sri K.R. Manjunath,., Principal, M.E.S. P.U.College,
T.T.M Layout,Bengaluru

Editorial Committee : Dr. M.V.Srinivas, Professor of History (Retd.), H.Road,

Rajarajeshwarinagar, Bengaluru.
Dr. R.L.M. Patil, Professor of Political Science (Retd.).
1105 Poornaprajnanagar, Uttarahalli, Bengaluru.
Dr. Eshwarappa, Head of Dept. of Geography, Bengaluru
University, Bengaluru.
Marathi Translation
Committee : Sri Raghavendra Prabhu M., Sri Mallappa P., and
Smt. Geetha Sreenivasan, Associate Professor in
English, P.G.Centre, Sheshadripuram College, Bengaluru.
Chief
Co-ordinator : Prof. G.S. Mudambadithaya, Co-ordinator, Curriculum
Revision and Textbook Preparation, Karnataka Textbook
Society, Bengaluru.

Guidance : Sri Nagendra Kumar Managing Director, Karnataka

Textbook Society, Bengaluru.
Smt C. Nagamani, Deputy Director, Karnataka Textbook
Society, Bengaluru.
Programme
Co-ordinator : Smt S.N. Leelavathi, Senior Asst. Director, Karnataka

v
 Textbook Revision Committee
Chairman-in-Chief :
Prof. Baraguru Ramachandrappa
State Textbook Revision Committee, Karnataka Textbook Society,
Bengaluru.
Chairperson :
Dr. T.R. Chandrashekar
Consultant, 4th Finance Commission, 3rd Floor,
Kaneuja Bhavan, Race course Road, Bengaluru-1.
Members :
Dr. Basavaraj
Assistant Professor (Department of Political Science)
University of Tumakuru, Tumakuru.
Dr. N.R. Hadapada
Lecturer in Geography, Sri Channabasaveshwara
Pre-university College, B. Aralikatte, Hubballi Taluk,
Dharwad District.
Sri. H.G. Rajesh
Lecturer, Govt. Pre-university College, Dodderi,
Bengaluru South Taluk.
Sri. P.M. Kaginkar
Assistant Master, Govt. High School, Changavara, Sira Taluk,
Tumakuru District.
Smt. Rajalakshmi. S.
Assistant Mistress
Govt. Pre-university College (High School Section),
Srirampuram, Bengaluru North District.
Smt. Shahina Begum
Assistant Mistress
Stree Samaja, Sheshadripuram Highschool,
Bengaluru North District.
Artist :
Sri. D.N. Venkatesh
Drawing Teacher, GHS, Uramara, Kasalagere, Mandya District.

vi
High Power Revision Committee Members

Dr. M.S. Talwar

#777, ‘Jenugudu’
5th Block, Banashankari 6th Stage,
Metkalpalya, Bengaluru-60.
Dr. Amaresh Yatagal,
Assistant Professor,
Dept. of History and Archaeology,
Rani channamma University, P.G. Centre,
Toravi, Vijayapura - 586105
Dr. N. Nandeeshwara
Principal
S.M.R. P.U College,
Kallambella, Sira Taluk,
Tumakuru Dist - 572125.
Sri. Manjunath Ayli
History Lecturer,
Government Pre-University College,
Police Colony, Raichur - 584101.
Chief Advisors :
Sri. Narasimhaiah
Managing Director,
Karnataka Textbook Society,
Bengaluru.
Smt. C. Nagamani
Deputy Director,
Karnataka Textbook Society,
Bengaluru.
Programme Co-ordinator :
Smt. S. N. Leelavathi
Senior Asst. Director,
Karnataka Textbook Society,
Bengaluru.

vii
 Translators

Dr. Pampadevi
Professor (Department of History)
School of Journalism & Media Studies,
Dayanandasagar University,
Kumaraswamy layout,
Bengaluru.

Sri. Janardhan. R.D.

Lecturer (Department of English)
Government Boys Junior College,
Bangarapete Taluk,
Kolar District.

Sri. Srinivas.P
Assistant Professor
College of Horticulture,
UHS Campus, GKVK,
Bengaluru-65.

Dr. S. Shambavi
Home Science College,
Sheshadri Road,
Bengaluru-1.

Sri. Sadananda.R
Lecturer,
Government Pre-University College,
Arakalavadi,
Chamarajanagara District.

viii
Sri. Pavanagangadhara
Lecturer (Department of English)
Sri Pragatipara Vidyavardhaka P.U. College,
Mavinahalli, C.S. pura hobli,
Gubbi Taluk, Tumakuru District.

Smt. Annapurna Kurabet,

Lecturer (Department of English)
Government Junior College,
Gokak Taluk,
Belagavi District.

Smt. Jayashree. T.N.

E 1309, Brigade Gardenia,
J.P. Nagara, 7th phase,
Bengaluru-78.

Sri. R. Sathyanarayana
Assistant Master
Maharshi High School,
Vishveswaranagara,
Mysuru.

Sri. Prakash Kodaganuru

Assistant Master
Government Model Higher Primary School,
Naragenahalli,
Davangere Taluk and District.

ix
 About the Revision of Textbooks

Honourable Chief Minister Sri Siddaramaiah who is also the Finance

Minister of Karnataka, in his response to the public opinion about the
new textbooks from standard I to X, announced, in his 2014-15 budget
speech of constituting an expert-committee, to look into the matter.
He also spoke of the basic expectations there in, which the textbook
experts should follow: “The textbooks should aim at inculcating social
equality, moral values, development of personality, scientific temper,
critical acumen, secularism and the sense of national commitment”,
he said.
Later, for the revision of the textbooks from class I to X, the
Department of Education constituted twenty seven committees and
passed an order on 24-11-2014. The committees so constituted were
subject and class-wise and were in accordance with the standards
prescribed. Teachers who are experts in matters of subjects and syllabi
were in the committees.
There were already many complaints, and analyses about the
textbooks. So, a freehand was given in the order dated 24-11-2014
to the responsible committees to examine and review text and even
to prepare new text and revise if necessary. Eventually, a new order
was passed on 19-9-2015 which also gave freedom even to re-write
the textbooks if necessary. In the same order, it was said that the
completely revised textbooks could be put to force from 2017-18
instead of 2016-17.
Many self inspired individuals and institutions, listing out the
wrong information and mistakes there in the text, had sent them
to the Education Minister and to the Textbook Society. They were
rectified. Before rectification we had exchanged ideas by arranging
debates. Discussions had taken place with Primary and Secondary
Education Teachers’ Associations. Questionnaires were administered
among teachers to pool up opinions. Separate meetings were held with
teachers, subject inspectors and DIET Principals. Analytical opinions
had been collected. To the subject experts of science, social science,
mathematics and languages, textbooks were sent in advance and later
meetings were held for discussions. Women associations and science
related organisations were also invited for discussions. Thus, on the
basis of inputs received from various sources, the textbooks have been
revised where ever necessary.

x
 Another important aspect has to be shared here. We constituted
three expert committees. They were constituted to make suggestions
after making a comparative study of the texts of science, mathematics
and social science subjects of central schools (NCERT), along with
state textbooks. Thus, the state text books have been enriched based
on the comparative analysis and suggestions made by the experts. The
state textbooks have been guarded not to go lower in standards than
the textbooks of central schools. Besides, these textbooks have been
examined along side with the textbooks of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala,
Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra states.
Another clarification has to be given here. Whatever we have done
in the committees is only revision, it is not the total preparation of the
textbooks. Therefore, the structure of the already prepared textbooks
have in no way been affected or distorted. They have only been revised
in the background of gender equality, regional representation, national
integrity, equality and social harmony. While doing so, the curriculum
frames of both central and state have not been transgressed. Besides,
the aspirations of the constitution are incorporated carefully. Further,
the reviews of the committees were once given to higher expert
committees for examination and their opinions have been inculcated
into the textbooks.
Finally, we express our grateful thanks to those who strived in
all those 27 committees with complete dedication and also to those
who served in higher committees. At the same time, we thank all the
supervising officers of the Textbook Society, who sincerely worked
hard in forming the committees and managed to see the task reach
it’s logical completion. We thank all the members of the staff who co-
operated in this venture. Our thanks are also to the subject experts
and to the associations who gave valuable suggestions.

Narasimhaiah Prof. Baraguru Ramachandrappa

Managing Director Chairman-in-Chief
Karnataka Textbook Society (R) State Textbook Revision Committee (R)
Bengaluru. Bengaluru.

xi
 CONTENTS

Page
Sl.No. HISTORY
No.

1 Vijayanagara Empire 01

2 Bahamani Adil Shahs 15

3 Bhakthi Cult and Sufi Heritage. 31

4 Nayakas, Palegaras and Naada Prabhus 43

5 Wodeyars of Mysuru 54

6 The Sultans of Delhi 70

7 The Mughal Empire 79

8 Marathas 89

9 Advent of the Europeans to India 93

10 Rise of British Political Supremacy in India 100

11 Impact of the British Rule 110

12 Social and Riligious Reforms 121

13 Freedom Struggle 134

xii
 LESSON
1
VIJAYANAGARA EMPIRE

Introduction

The expedition which started during 13th century, by Delhi Sultan

Allauddin Khilji over South India, continued in 14th century also. As a
result, many south Indian kingdoms like Yadavas of Devgiri, Hoysalas
of Dwarasamudra, Kakatiyas of Warangal, Pandyas of Madhurai and
others were defeated. At this juncture, Vijayanagar succeeded in
creating a strong political power as a solution for South India’s political
issues. It ruled for three centuries.
In this lesson, the dynasties which ruled Vijayanaga Empire
are explained. Contributions of these Kings to Political, social,
economical, literary, art and sculpture are also discussed. Battle of
Talikota (Rakkasatangadi) which was the main reason for the decline
of Vijayanagar Empire, and its affects are also discussed here.

Competencies

1] To understand the achievements of Vijayanagara kings.

2] To know administration, social and economic conditions
and literature of the Vijayanagara period.
3] To know the art and sculpture of the Vijayanagara period.
4] To know the religious equality maintained by the Vijayanagara
kings.
5] To mark the borders and to identify the places of Vijayanagara
Empire on the map.

Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 A. D. on the

southern bank of Tungabadra river by the sons of Sangama
called Harihar, Bukka Raya, Kampana, Marappa and
Muddappa. Hampi of Ballari district was their capital and
their national emblem was boar (Varaha).

1
 Emblem was boar (Varaha)

During 1336-1646 CE, Vijayanagara Empire was ruled

by the four dynasties called Sangama Dynasty(1336-1485),
Saluva Dynasty(1485-1505 CE), Tuluva Dynasty(1505-1567)
and Aravidu Dynasty(1570-1646).
Sangama Dynasty (1336-1485 CE)
Harihara and Bukka: Harihara (1336-57 CE) was the
first king of this dynasty. He took control over the regions
of Tungabhadra River. He extended his empire to Konkan
coastal areas of the West, to Nellore and Kadapa of East, to
the Krishna River of the North and Kaveri River of the South.
Like this, he laid a strong foundation for his empire.
Bukka Raya (1357-1377 CE), brother of Harihara took over
power after his death because Harihara had no son. During
his rule, his son Kampana widened the empire by defeating
the Sultan of Madhurai. This was explained in a book called
‘Madhura Vijayam’ which was written by Kampana’s queen
Gangadevi. Bukka captured Penukonda by defeating Reddys

2
of Kondaveedu and included it to Vijayanagara Empire.
Shravanabelagola inscription of 1368 CE explains that he
pacified the conflict between Jains and Vyshnavas and
maintained religious harmony and equality.
After Bukka Raya, Harihara II(1377-1404 CE), Bukka Raya
II, Virupaksha II(1404-1406 CE), Devaraya I (1406-1422 CE),
Vira Vijayaraya (1422-1424 CE) ruled Vijayanagara Empire.
Devaraya II (Prauda Devaraya) (1424-1446 CE)
He was the famous king of Sangama Dynasty and his
period was significant in Vijayanagara Dynasty. After he took
over the power, he built a new army including Muslim soldiers
who had archery and horse taming skills. With the help of
this army, he defeated Reddy leaders of Kondaveedu region.
He defended famous Mudugal fort, Raichur and Bankapur
by fighting with Ahmed Shah of Bahmani Sultans. His brave
commander called Lakkanna Dandesha defeated the kings
of Kerala and Srilanka and collected treasure and tribute in
cash from them.
Prauda Devaraya, who had religious tolerance, built Jain
and Vyshnava temples in the capital and he permitted to build
Mosques also. Telugu poet Srinatha, Sanskrit philosopher
Dindima and Kannada poet and the Minister, Lakkana
Dandesh were sheltered in his kingdom. Veerashaivism got
resurrected in his period.

Persian ambassador, Abdul Razak visited Vijayanagara

Kingdom during Prauda Devaraya period and stated, “I have
seen such a rich kingdom like Vijayanagara Kingdom for the
first time. The capital has seven forts and the Raja’s army
has lakhs of soldiers.”

3
 He had the titles like ‘Gaja Ventegara’,
‘Chatusamudradiswara’, ‘Arirayavibhada’. After his death
in 1446 CE, his son Mallikarjuna (1446-1465 CE) and then
Virupaksha III (1465-1485 CE) ruled Vijayanagara. These were
weak rulers and because of this a strong commander Saluva
Narasimha captured the capital. With this incident, the rule
of Sangama Dynasty ended in 1485 CE.
Saluva Dynasty (1485-1505 CE)
After taking over the power in 1485 CE, Saluva Narasimha
ruled for six years and died in 1491 CE. His children were
minors when he died and because of this Kingdom was in the
protection of a commander called Tuluva Narasanayaka from
1491 to 1503 CE.
Tuluva Dynasty (1505-1567 CE)
In 1505 CE, Vira Narasimha, son of Tuluva Narasanayaka,
started the rule of Tuluva Dynasty. After his death in 1509,
his brother Krishna Deva Raya came to power.
Krishna Deva Raya (1509-1529 CE)
He was the famous and greatest king among other
Vijayanagara kings. At the initial years of his rule, he had to
face many revolts.
Robert Sewell stated that Krishnadevaraya was an
uncommon brave king, intelligent soldier and diplomatic
expert. He defeated his enemies and extended his empire in
South India.
He seized Sivanasamudra fort from Ummattur chief, Ganga
Raja in 1510 CE. Later he won Raichur fort. He supported
Portuguese to capture Goa from Vijayapura Sultan. In 1513
CE, he won Udayagiri fort, then in 1518 CE, he captured
Cuttack, the capital of Gajapati Prathapa Rudra, a Kalinga
King, by defeating him and married his daughter Jaganmohini.

4
 THE VIJAYANAGARA EMPIRE
DURING KRISHNADEVARAYA
[16th Century]

Historical Places

In 1522 CE, he recaptured Raichur from the king of Adil

Shah, Ismail Adil Khan. Later, he captured Kalaburagi, Bidar
forts. He got released the son of king who was imprisoned by
Bahmani Prime Minister and restored him to power in Bidar.
For this, he got the title, ‘Yavana Rajya Prathishtapanacharya’.
Vijayanagara Kingdom was expanded in all four directions at

5
the time of his death in 1529 CE. Domingo Paes, who visited
his kingdom, stated, “Krishnadevaraya was a soft person with
a strong body” in his book.
Rakkasa Tangadi Battle
After Krishnadevaraya, Achyuta Raya (1530-1542 CE) and
Sadasiva Raya (1543-1565 CE) ruled Vijayanagara. Since
Sadasiva Raya was a minor and unable to rule, Rama Raya of
Aravidu dynasty, son in law of Krishnadevaraya took the whole
responsibility of administration. His diplomacy expanded
Vijayanagara Kingdom and made it rich. The number of
enemies also increased.
Deccan Sultanates were attacking Vijayanagara often. To
avenge, Rama Raya captured Vijayapura and Golkonda and
this caused the war. All Sultanates united themselves with
jealousy and hatred on the growth and richness of Vijayanagara
Kingdom. They had political differences in between them, but
to defeat Vijayanagara, they united.
On 23rd January of 1565 CE, the Rakkasa Tangadi war
began between the united army of Sultans and the army of
Vijayanagara on the banks of Krishna River and Rama Raya
died in the war. Sultanates looted Vijayanagara. Tirumala and
Venkata, sons of Rama Raya, who escaped from war, ran away
to Penukonda. Later, Aravidu dynasty started their ruling
from 1570 to 1646 CE by making Penukonda, Chandragiri
and later Vellur as their capitals. By this war, feudal chiefs of
Mysuru, Keladi, Chitradurga, Yelahanka and Surapur became
independent rulers in Karnataka.

6
Cultural Contributions of Vijayanagara Empire
Administration: Vijayanagara Empire had strong central
administration and it adopted decentralized administrative
system. In the administration, there were many ministers
to assist the king and leaders of local provinces. For the
administration purpose, kingdom was divided into provinces,
provinces into regions, regions into cities and cities into village
groups. King’s representatives were managing the provinces
and hereditary officers were managing village administration.
The king was the supreme judiciary. Regional officers
were dispensing justice in Provinces. 1/6 of land revenue was
collected. It was major income and trade tax, profession tax,
road tax, fair tax, export tax and tribute in cash were other
incomes.
During the reign of Vijayanagara, infantry, cavalry,
elephant and canon divisions were the prominent divisions in
the army. Arabian horses were very attractive in Vijayanagara.
Social Status: During Vijayanagara period, child
marriage, Sati system and Devadasi systems were in practice.
Monogamy was in practice but rich people and kings were
following polygamy. Women were respected. Deepavali and
Dasara festivals were celebrated grandly. Dasara festival was
celebrated under King’s patronage.
Economic Status: Agriculture was the main occupation.
Rice, Maize, sugarcane and cotton crops were the major
crops. Kings of Vijayanagara encouraged agriculture through
building tanks and wells. They had trade links with other
countries and rice, cotton, clothes, iron, diamonds, sugar,

7
musk, sandal and spices were exported. Horse, silk clothes,
mukhmal clothes were imported. Vijayanagara was the
international business centre for diamonds. Cloth weaving
was the important industry. Bhatkal, Honnavara, Manglore
were the important ports then. Golden coins were in use and
pictures of gods and goddesses were etched on these coins.
Literature: During the reign of Vijayanagara literature
of Sanskrit, Telugu and Kannada developed immensely.
Vidyaranya wrote books like ‘Shankara Vijaya’ and
‘Sarvadarshan Sangraha’ in Sanskrit. His brother,
Sayanacharya also wrote books called ‘Vedarthaprakasha’ and
‘Ayurveda Sudhanidhi’. Kings and their family members also
created sufficient literature. Among them, Gangadevi wrote
‘Madhura Vijayam’, Prauda Devaraya wrote great drama called
‘Sudhanidhi’, Krishnadevaraya wrote ‘Jambavati Kalyana’,
‘Madalasa Charitam’, and ‘Rasamanjari’. Kumarvyasa’s
‘Gadugina Bharata’, Rathnakaravarni’s ‘Bharatesha Vaibhava’,
Chamaras’s ‘Prabhulingaleele’ were significant literary
works in Kannada. Lakkanna’s ‘Shivatatwa Chintamani’,
Bhima poet’s ‘Basava Purana’ were the contributions to the
Veerashaiva literature.
Krishnadevaraya encouraged Telugu literature, because
of this, he got title called ‘Andhra Bhoja’. He himself was a
poet and he wrote ‘Amuktamalyada’ in Telugu. There were
eight famous scholars called Ashtadiggajas in his kingdom
and they are Allasani Peddanna, Tenali, Nandhi Thimmanna,
Srinatha, Pingali Suranna, Tenali Ramakrishna and others.

8
 Religious Harmony: Kings of Vijayanagara Kingdom were
great followers of religious tolerance. They built a mosque in
their capital. Bukka Raya solved the problems between Jains
and Vaishnavas and it is known by the Shravanabelagola
inscription of 1368 CE. Barbosa who visited Vijayanagar
during the reign of Krishnadeavraya, stated that any Christian,
Jew, Muslim, Hindu or person of any religion can live happily
in Vijayanagara Kingdom, because these kings respect all.
Art and Sculpture: Great historian, Percy Brown on
observing the temples, monuments and sculptural statues,
stated that art and sculpture of Vijayanagara was ‘the
evolutionary form of Dravidian style’.

Hajara Ramaswamy Temple, Hampi

The temples of that period were built with strong granite

rocks. Kalyana Mantapa of Virupaksha temple in Hampi, Hazara
Ramaswamy temple, Vittalaswamy temple, Krishnaswamy
temple, Kamala Mahal, Shringeri’s Vidyashankar temple are
some important temples which were built during their rule.
Very spacious enclosures, high tower, very wide marriage
halls, meeting halls, spring pavilions were the feature of
temples of Vijayanagara period.

9
 Vidyashankara Temple, Shringeri

Kalahasti, Srishyla, Thirupati, Chidambaram, Srirangam,

Kumbhakonam, Kanchi and in other places, art and sculpture
of Vijaynagara can be found.
Lepakshi temple which was called as Shaiva’s Ajanta,
has sketches of Shivapurana of Vijayanagara period. On
the roof of the Virupakasha temple’s Marriage hall, scenes
of Dashavatara and Girija Kalyana, were carved.

Stone chariot, idols of Narasimha and Ganapati illustrate

the monolith stone sculpture of the Vijayanagara reign.
Dakshinadi music which is introduced now as Karnatak Music
had reached even common people then. Purandaradas and
Kanakadas contributed a lot to this field.

10
Ganapati, Hampi Idols of Narasimha, Hampi

Stone Chariot, Hampi

11
Chronological Period (CE)
Ruling period of Vijayanagara Kingdom – 1336–1565
Sangama Dynasty – 1336-1485
Harihara – 1336–1357
Bukka Raya – 1357–1377
Devaraya II (Prauda Devaraya) – 1424-1446
Saluva Dynasty – 1484-1505
Tuluva Narasanayaka – 1491-1503
Tuluva Dynasty – 1505-1567
Krishnadevaraya – 1509-1529
The battle of Talikot – 23 January 1565.

EXERCISES

I. Fill in the blanks

1. Military leader of Devaraya II who defeated Sri Lankan
king and received tribute__________________
2. Krishnadevaraya married Gajapathi Prataparudra’s
daughter_______
3. In Vijayanagar kingdom Varaha was a __________coin
4. Foreign traveler who said all religions co-existed
peacefully in Vijayanagar kingdom was____________
5. Art and sculpture of Vijayanagar was ‘the evolutionary
form of Dravidian style’. _____________said this.

12
II. Answer the following in one sentence
1. Who is the founder of Vijayanagar Kingdom?
2. Name the dynasties that ruled Vijayanagar.
3. Name the famous king from Sangama dynasty.
4. Name the famous and greatest king of Vijaynagar
kingdom.
5. When did the Rakkasa Thangadi war take place?
6. Name the sources of income for the Vijayanagar
kingdom.
7. Name the festivals celebrated in Vijayanagar kingdom.
8. Name the main crops grown in Vijayanagar kingdom.
9. Name the musical creations of Krishnadevaraya.
10. Name the foreigners who visited Vijaynagar.
11. Name the important temples from Vijayanagar
Kingdom.
III. Discuss and answer
1. Write a note on Krishnadevaraya’s conquests.
2. Make a list of literary works from Vijayanagar period
IV. Match the following
A B
Gangadevi Andhrabhoja
Devaraya II Madura Vijayam
Krishnadevaraya Vidyashankar Devalaya
Shringeri Gajaventegara

13
V. Activities
1. Collect pictures of Vijayanagar monuments and
describe them.
2. Collect pictures of Vijayanagar sculptures and
describe them
3. Collect songs written by Kanakadas and Purandaradas
and sing them in a group.
4. Visit Hampi on an educational tour, write an essay
about your experience.

  

14
 LESSON
2
BAHMANI ADIL SHAH'S

Introduction

In the history of Karnataka, Vijayanagara Empire was established

in 1336 CE. Later on 3rd August of 1347 CE, the first Muslim dynasty
Bahmani Empire came to exist. Allauddin Hasan Gangu Bahman shah
was the founder of this empire. Battles were taking place continuously
between the Bahmani Sultans and Vijayanagara kings. Inner conflicts
rose in the dynasty and by 1527 CE five Shah dynasties came into
existence. Among them, Adil Shahis of Vijayapura were prominent.
Main achievements of Sultanates of this dynasty are discussed in this
lesson. They also gave prominence to literature art and sculpture.

The achievements of Sultan Firoz Shah and famous prime minister

Mohammed Gavan are discussed in this lesson. With this, Bahmani
state’s significant contributions are also discussed.

Competencies

1] To know contributions of Firoz Shah and Mohammed Gawan.

2] To recognize the contributions in the field of literature, art

and sculpture by Bahmani Sultans.

3] To mark the important places of Bahmani Sultans on map.

4] To know the important sultans among Vijayapura Adil Shahs

5] To know art literature and sculpture of this period.

When Vijaynagara Empire was founded, in the northern

part of it Bahmani Empire also founded in 1347 CE. Its founder
was Alla-Ud-Din Hasan Gangu Bahman Shah. Bahman Shah
was working in the army of Delhi Sultan, Muhammad Bin
Tughluq.

15
 2.1 Bahamani Sultans (1347-1527 CE)
Bahmani State had the parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra
and Andhra Pradesh (Telangana) states under its rule. In the
beginning, Kalaburagi and later Bidar were their capitals.
Bahmani Empire was in northern part of the Krishna River
and Vijayanagara Empire was in southern part of Krishna.
Tajuddin Firoz Shah was the great Sultan in Bahmani dynasty.

16
Tajuddin Firoz Shah (1397-1422 CE)
He was liberal, judicious and a believer of god. He made
copies of Quran and edited it for his whole life. He was a writer,
encouraged all languages and he was an expert in Geometry
and Theology. He sheltered many philosophers, poets, artists
and had honoured them. He established observatory in
Daulathabad (Maharashtra). He propagated the beauty of his
capital, Kalaburagi. He built a new city called ‘Firozabada’ on
the bank of Bhima River. He gifted many villages to a Sufi
Saint, Bandenawaz who arrived to the kingdom during his
period. He concentrated on the development of ports and as
a result, foreign tourism was encouraged.
Mohammed Gawan (1463-1481 CE)
All credits of making Bahmani dynasty great goes to
Mohammed Gawan. Basically, he was a Persian and worked
honestly as a Prime Minister in the reign of Sultanate,
Mohammed Shah III.
Prominent Bahmani Sultans
Alla-Ud-Din Hasan Gangu Bahman Shah, Firoz Shah,
Ahamud Shah and Mohammed Shah III

Important Factors
ohammed Gawan captured Hubballi, Belgavi and
M
Goa from Vijayanagara Empire.
Administration was according to the Islamic laws.
He encouraged revenue and postal services.
e fixed taxes on the basis of land’s fertility and
H
irrigation facility. Tax was collected in cash only.

17
 e removed some taxes which were annoying the
H
people.
s a philosopher himself, Mohammed Gawan founded
A
Madarasa (University) in Bidar. It encouraged Islamic
religion and law education. Astronomy, Mathematics,
History were being studied here. Free education and
hostel facilities were there. Around 3000 manuscripts
were in the library of Madarasa.
ohammed contributed a lot in making the Bahmani
M
kingdom great. Regional leaders were jealous of his
fame and conspired to have him murdered. On the
Gawan’s tomb, it is written that “innocent Gawan
was killed”.
Cultural Contributions:
Education: Bahmani Sultans encouraged Islamic
education. Chanting of Quran was the part of the education.
Kalaburagi, Bidar, Elichapur and Daulathabad and others
were the Islamic educational centres during their reign. Poor
people and orphans were provided free food and shelter and
scholarships was given to students in Madarasas. Quran,
philosophy and principles of Sufism were taught in the
schools.
Literature: Literary activities were greatly encouraged by
Bahmani Sultans and they sheltered many philosophers, poets
and writers. Firoz Shah, Mohammed Shah II and Mohammed
Gawan were writers and minister poets. During their reign,
Persian, Arabic and Urdu literatures were developed. Great
Sufi saint and writer Bandenavaz belonged to their period. The
language that they and other foreigners used became famous
as ‘Dakani’. Later it developed as Urdu language.

18
 Sculpture: The history of Bahmani dynasty is famous for
sculpture and architecture. Monuments in Bidar, Kalaburagi
and other places are in Hindu-Islam style. It is familiar as
Dakani style. The first contribution of Bahmanis is Jamia
Mazjid of Kalaburagi and Mohammed Shah built it. The
meeting hall with small domes is the major attraction here.
Tombs of Sultans are in Kalaburagi and they are also domed
structures. The tomb of Bandenawaz is another prominent
monument of Kalaburagi.
Bidar’s Solahkhamba Mosque and beautiful palaces in
the fort are famous. These buildings are decorated and have
carved wooden crafts on them. Twelve tombs of Ashtur near
Bidar are also famous.
The prominent monument of the Bahmani kingdom, is
Madarasa which was built by Mohammed Gawan. It is 242
feet wide, 222 feet long, 56 feet height and 3 storied building.
The building which is more than five centuries old appears to
be declaring its glory.

Fort, Bidar

19
 Jamia Masque of Kalaburagi

Tomb of Bandenawaj, Kalaburagi

20
 Mohammed Gawan built Madarasa, Bidar

2.2 Shah Dynasties

After Mohammed Gawan, Bahmani Kingdom did not
continue its rule strongly. The Sultans who came to power after
Mohammed III, were incompetent to rule. After Mohammed III,
Mohammed came to power. But he was a little boy and could
not rule the kingdom. The last king was Sultan Khalimullah
Shah. After his death, Bahmani kingdom was broken into five
states of Shahi.
1. Adil Shahs of Vijayapur (Bijapur)
2. Barid Shahs of Bidar
3. Qutub Shahs of Golkonda
4. Nizam Shahs of Ahmadnagar
5. Imad Shahs of Berar

21
2.2.1 Adil Shahs of Vijayapura (Bijapura) (1489-1686 CE)

Yusuf Adil Khan (1489-1510 CE)

Ismail Adil Khan (1510-1534 CE)
Ibrahim Adil Shah (1535-1558 CE)
Ali Adil Shah I (1558-1580 CE)
Ibrahim Adil Shah II (1580-1626 CE)
Mohammed Adil Shah (1626-1656 CE)
Ali Adil Shah II (1656-1672 CE)
Sikandar Adil Shah (1672-1686 CE)

Yusuf Adil Khan was the founder of Adil Shahs dynasty of

Vijayapur. He was a good administrator and tolerant towards
other religions. After him, Ibrahim Adil Shah II came to the
power.
Ibrahim Adil Shah II (1580-1626 CE)
Ibrahim Adil Shah the Second was the great king among
other Sultans. Kingdom was expanded and became rich in
his period. He had a title called ‘Jagadguru Badshah’. He
was tolerant of other religions. He sheltered many Hindu
philosophers, poets and musicians in his court. He renovated
Dutta temples in his fort and encouraged pooja rituals. He
worked for the cultural harmony of Hindu-Muslim. He wrote a
book called ‘Kitab-e-Navaras’ and tried to make music popular
among Muslims. The book begins with worshipping the Gods
like Ganapati, Saraswati, Bhyrava and others. He himself
was a great musician. ‘Ibrahim Rauza’ which is famous for
its architecture, was built by him.

22
 Ibrahim Rauza, Vijayapura

2.2.2 Barid Shahs of Bidar (1489-1619 CE)

When Bahmani State was scattered into many provinces,
Barid Shahs ruled Deccan’s Bidar and other regions around
it. Qasim Barid was the founder of this dynasty. After him,
Ibrahim and his brother Qasim who ruled Bidar, were
incompetent kings. And because of their inner conflicts,
this dynasty declined. Then Ibrahim Adil Shah of Vijayapur
captured Bidar. Like this, Barid Shah Kingdom was merged
into Ibrahim’s Vijayapur’s state.
2.2.3 Qutub Shahs of Golkonda (1512-1687 CE)
Quli Qutub Shah: He was the founder of independent
Golkonda State. He ruled the state with good administration
and in 1543 CE he was killed by his own son.
Ibrahim: He had compassion for Hindu religion and there
were many Hindu officers in his administration. During
his ruling, he made Golkonda a beautiful city. He changed
his capital from Golkonda to Hyderabad in 1589 CE. After
him Abdul Qutub Shah, Abdul Hasan and others came to
power. But they were incompetent kings and later Golkonda
surrendered to the Mughals.

23
2.2.4 Nizam Shahs of Ahmadnagar (1490-1636 CE)
In 1490 CE, Malik Ahmed who was a chief of Junnar
Province founded his own state of Ahmadnagar and established
Nizam Shah Dynasty. He took Daulatabad under his control
and expanded empire. After him, Burhan, Hussain Nizam
Shah, Murtaza were Sultans just for namesake. With death
of Chand Bibi, Ahmadnagar declined. And later in 1637 CE
during the period of Shah Jahan, Mughal king, Ahmadnagar
was merged into the Mughal State.
2.2.5 Imad Shahs of Beerar (1490-1580 CE)
After the fall of Bahmani Kingdom, five Sultan states
came to exist. Imad Shah Dynasty of Berar is one among
them. It was situated between, Pen Ganga and Vine Ganga
Rivers at Vardha, Tapati to north of Bidar. In 1490, Fathullah
founded this dynasty. Ellichpur was their capital. Fathullah
had a title called ‘Imad-ul-Mulk’. After his death in 1504 CE,
his son Allauddin Imad Shah came to the power. He was an
incompetent king. After him, his son Darya Imad Shah came
to the power and even during his rule also, Berar Dynasty
continued its battles with neighbouring states.
After the death of Darya Imad Shah, his little son, Burhan
Imad Shah took the power. During his rule, power came to
the hands of usurper called Tufail Khan. Later, Berar Dynasty
fell to the hands of Vijayapura Sultans.
The Contributions of Adil Shahs:
During the reign of 200 years, Adil Shahs of Vijayapur
contributed a lot to the fields of education, literature, music,
fine arts, art and sculpture.
Education: Adil Shahs were great lovers of education and
they encouraged it. Their education policy was to develop

24
Islamic culture. Mukhtub (Mosque) and Madarasa (college)
were the educational centres. Knowledge, religion, law, poetry
and others were taught. Educational institutions were under
King’s patronage.
Literature: The contribution of Adil Shah to the literature
is very prominent. Literature became rich in their period
because Kings were poets themselves. Many books were
written in Persian, Arabic, Urdu and Kannada languages.

Persian Poet : Fersita –‘Thariq-i-Ferista’ and

‘Gulshan-ye-Ibrahim’
Urdu Poets : Abdul’s ‘Ibrahim Nama’
Mulla Nasrati’s : ‘Alinama’
Kannada Poet : Narahari of Torave – ‘Torave Ramayana’
Music: Yusuf Ali Adil Shah and Ibrahim Adil Shah II were
great musicians. Ibrahim Adil Shah’s work ‘Kitab-e-Navaras’
was the great work in music. He opened a music school.
Women of royal and rich families were interested in music.
Fine Arts: Ibrahim II was a fine artist. His court had
many Persian artists. Beautiful painting of flowers, plants,
creeper and other nature scenes were painted on their houses,
walls of Mosques and floors. These paintings helped to know
aspirations, interests and traditions of the people.
Art and Sculpture: In the history of art and sculpture of
Karnataka, the buildings of Adil Shahs of Vijayapura are the
important ones. They built forts, palaces, mosques and tombs.
Their monuments are in Indo-Islamic style.
a) Fort: The fort of Vijayapur is a big one and it has ninety
six bastions (the dome which were built on fort) and six main
entrances.

25
b) Palaces:
Gagan Mahal: In 1620 CE, Ibrahim Adil Shah built it. It
has three storied towers.
Mehtar Mahal: It is also a three storied palace. Ibrahim
Adil Shah II built it. It is famous for its fine and delicate
decorations. And in Asar Mahal, rooms have different paintings
painted on them.

Asar Mahal, Vijayapura

Gagan Mahal, Vijayapura

26
c) Mosques:
Jama Masjid: Ali Adil Shah built it. It is famous for
its very wide prayer hall. It is a common building without
any decorations. It has different new style among other art
monuments.
Ibrahim Rauza: Ibrahim Adil Shah II built it in the memory
of his wife, Taj Begum in Vijayapura. It has the tombs of
Ibrahim and his relatives. It is the only Rauza in India. It is
called as ‘Taj Mahal of South India’.
The Mosque and the Tomb are built on an elevated
platform with a garden around them and compound wall
around it. This is called 'Rauza'.
Gol Gumbuz: Mohammed decided to build something that
is even bigger and greater than Rauza. He built Gol Gumbuz,
a domed tomb in 1656 CE at Vijayapura. It has a big dome
with a whispering chamber inside. It is a fine example for
technology of that time. It is the fourth largest dome in the
world and the first largest dome in India.

Gol Gumbaz, Vijayapura

27
Malik E Maidan Jumma Mosque, Vijayapura
Firangi,
Vijayapura

Other Important Monuments: Bara Kaman, Bade Kaman,

Ananda Mahal, Upli Buruj, Taj Bawdi, Chand Bawdi and other
monument are important ones.
Activities
1) Collect the pictures of art and sculpture of Bahmani
and Adil Shah Dynasties and make an album.
2) Collect pictures of temples, churches and mosques
which are the symbols of Hindu, Christian and
Muslim cultures and make an album.
Chronological Period (CE)
The reign of Bahamani Kingdom : 1347-1527 CE
Establishment of Madarasa in Bidar : 1461CE
The reign of Adil Shahs : 1489-1672 CE
Construction of Ibrahim Rauza : 1626 CE
Construction of Gol Gumaz : 1656 CE

28
 EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks
1. Bahmani dynasty was established in the year
______________
2. Kalaburagi was the capital of ___________sultan
3. Feroz shah set up __________ city on the banks of
Bhima river.
4. Mohammed Gawan set up Madarasa in the year
______________
5. Founder of Barid Shahi dyanasty was ____________
6. Founder of Golkonda’s Kutub Shahi state was
______________
7. Founder of Imaad Shahi dynasty was ______________
II. Answer in one sentence
1. Who was the founder of Bahmani dynasty?
2. Who was Mohammed Gawan?
3. Where is Solahkhamba mosque?
4. Name the prominent person among Adil Shahi
sultans.
5. What is called as Taj Mahal of South India?
6. Why is Golgumbuz famous?
7. Who had Jagadguru Badasha title?

29
III. Discuss in groups and answer
1. Name Mohammed Gawan’s achievements.
2. Name five Shahi dynasties.
3. Ibrahim Adil Shahi had religious tolerance, discuss.
IV. Match the following
A B
Adil Shahi Ahmed Nagar
Qutub Shahi Birar
Nizam Shahi Vijayapura
Imaad Shahi Bidar
Barid Shahi Golkonda

  

30
 LESSON BHAKTHI CULT AND SUFI
3 HERITAGE
Introduction

In South and North India Alwars and Daasas and in north

India Sanths (Saints) and Sufis created social awakening through
Bhakthi Cult. In this lesson, the objectives, meaning and features of
Bhakthi cult are discussed. In southern India Aandal, Akkamahadevi,
Kanakadasa, Purandaradasa and Shishunala Sharif are introduced.
Similarly, in North India Kabirdas, Gurunanak, Tulasidas, Meerabai,
Sri Chaithanya and Sufi Saints are introduced. The harmony these
faiths together have achieved, despite their diverse religious faiths,
and their endowment towards enriching the vernacular languages are
discussed here.
Competencies

1] Understanding the contributions of Bhakthi Cult in forging

religious hormony.
2] Understanding the preachings of Dasas and Saints.
3] Understanding and appreciating the unique philosophy of
Sufis.

Indian society is inclusive of many cultures. In this

society caste system, superstitions and pseudo rituals were
deeprooted. It was believed that attaining Moksha (salvation)
for the common man was impossible. The medieval society
was under the impression that the common people were
not eligible for such a destiny. During this period, saints of
Bhakti cult and Sufi tradition brought in a social and religious
reformation.
They stressed the importance of global brotherhood and
taught that Bhakthi is the best way to attain Moksha. This

31
path is called Bhakthi Cult. The word Bhakthi is from the
Sanskrit word ‘Bhuj”. Bhuj means the knowledge.
Gist of Bhakthi cult:
1. Bhakthi cult condemned discrimination. It preached
equality.
2. The Saints of Bhakthi cult opposed and condemned
superstitious practices.
3. They undertook the task of uniting the hearts of
people
4. According to Sufi Saints dharma is love and service
to mankind. God is one, not many, they preached.
3.1 Bhakthi Heritage in South India:
Aandal:
Aandal is one among the twleve Alwars,
the Vishnu Devotees, of Tamilnadu. She
was an adopted daughter of Vishnuchitha.
Vishnuchitha was an alwar they were
also called Periyalwar. Aandal's original
name was Godadevi. They were devotees
Aandal of Krishna. Her father was making flower
garlands and offered it to Krishna temple
of Srivilliputhur. Aandal loved Krishna and she claimed that
he was her husband. She wrote ‘Thirupaamai’ and dedicated
to God. In Tamilnadu Tirupaamai Vratha (rite/ a ceremony
/ religious observance) is very famous. According to Alwars
all Vishnu devotees are equal and their birth should not be
questioned. Caste discrimination is a criminal offence, they
believed.

32
Akkamahadevi:
Akkamahadevi was an enterprising
woman in the Vachana movement
of twelfth century. She has made
immense contributions to Vachana
literature. She was born in Uduthadi
of Shivamoga District. Her father was
Nirmalashetty and mother Sumathi.
Akka immersed in Shivabhakthi
Akkamahadevi
since her childhood. She claimed
Channamallikarjuna himself to be her husband. Her parents
forcibly got her married to king Koushika. She found it a
hindrance to her service to Guru, Linga, Jangama, so she
left the palace. Later, she stayed at Anubhava Mantapa in
Kalyana for sometime. There she wrote many Vachanas under
the pen name Channamallikarjuna. She was respected by
all Shivasharanas. She left Kalyana and went to Srishaila
towards the end of her life. She left her mortal body in the
Kadali forest of Srishaila.
Purandara Dasa (1480-1564 CE)
He is one of the important persons in
Kannada Dasa literature. Purandaradasa
was born in Purandaragada. His original
name was Srinivasa Nayaka. His father was
Varadappa Nayaka and mother Leelavathi.
Wife Lakshmibai was a religious woman.
Srinivasa Nayaka was a miser and an
atheist. Later he distributed all his wealth
to the needy people and spent rest of his Purandaradasaru
life in the thought of God. He travelled to
many places, singing Keerthanas and at last, he reached
Krishnadevaraya’s court. Vyasaraya gave him deeksha and

33
called him as Purandara. Later he became Purandaradasa.
We can see humaneness in all his songs. He condemned caste
system. We also see the combination of philosophy, moral
and musical qualities in his songs. He is known as Karnataka
Sangeetha Pithamaha (Father of Carnatic music). He wrote
Keerthanas with the pen name of Purandara Vittala. He was
praised by his own Guru (teacher) Vysaraya as "Purandara
Dasa is Ultimate as a Dasa”.
Kanakadasa (1508-1606 CE)
Kanakadasa is one of the famous
Keerthanakaras of Daasa Literature.
He was born about 1508 CE at Bada
village of Bankapura Taluk in Haveri
District. Thimmappa was his original
name. Beerappa and Bachamma were his
parents. He was a warrior and also a poet.
He headed a group of over 78 villages. It
is said that he found a potful of Gold and
he came to be known as Kanakanayaka. Kanakadasa
He renounced wordly things and became
a disciple of Vyasaraya. Later, he came to be known as
Kanakadasa. He has composed many Kirthanas with a pen
name Adhikeshava. Adikeshava was his personal God. He
has criticized the superstitious of the society in his songs and
has preached the simple path of attaining Moksha in them.
He has also criticized caste system in his songs.
Kanakana Kindi: The priests of Udupi temple stops
Kanaka from entering the temple. It is said that, Lord Krishna
pleased by his devotion turned his face towards west for
Kanaka. This was named as Kanakana Kindi. Kanakadasa
wrote Haribhakthisara, Nalacharithre, Ramadhyana Charithe
(Shatpadi epics), Mohana Tharangini (The Sangeetha Kavya)

34
Shishunala Sharifa:
Shishunala Sharifa is the first Kannada
Muslim mystic poet. He is known as Kabeera
of Karnataka. He was born in 1819 CE at
Shishunaala. His parents were Imam Saheb,
mother Hajjamma. He studied both Hindu
and Islamic religion in his childhood. Later
he passed his Mulki exams and served as
teacher for sometime. He took Deeksha
from Govindabhatta and wrote many
Thathvapadas. In his poems one can find Shishunala
Rewayath (Moharam words). Among those Sharifa
songs Kalagapada, Dharmika Neethipada, Alaavipada, Savaal
Jawab Pada are famous. We can see his grave in Shishunala.
He tried to spread humanity beyond the barriers of caste and
religion.
3.2 Bhakthi Heritage of North India:
Kabirdas (1398-1518 CE)
Kabirdas is a famous saint of
Bhakthi cult and was a disciple
of Ramananda. He tried to bring
harmony between Hindu and Muslim
religions. He was an adopted son of
weaving Muslim couple Neeru and
Neema of Varanasi. He condemened
caste system, luxurious life, and
discrimination based on religion. Allah
and Rama are the two names of one Kabirdas
God, he said. He described Hindu
Muslims as pots of same clay.
Kabir told that he is the son of Rama and Allah. According
to him, it is not possible to see God by fasting, torturing

35
the body, sacred pilgrimages. It is only possible by sacred
devotion. He taught his philosophy through Doha (Two lines
poems) which is simple and easy to understand by common
man. His followers are called Kabir Panthis.
Gurunanak (1469-1539 CE):
Gurunanak is the founder of Sikh
religion. He was born in 1469 CE at
Thalavandi in Punjab, now it is in
Pakistan. Mehtakalu (Kaaluchanda)
and Thruptha were his parents. He
stressed on good views of Hindu and
Muslim religions. His songs called as
Japaji are in Grantha Sahib, sacred
book of Sikhs. Sikh cult has given
Gurunanak importance for Japa and good deeds.
He stressed on gender equality. Nanak
had great belief in the existence of the God. God is one and
eternal, he proclaimed. He said, one can gain Guru through
Bhakthi and with Bhakthi one can attain Mukthi. He opposed
social evils like Idol worshiping, casteism, Sathi System etc.,
During one of his travels he visited Karnataka. He stayed in
Bidar, the place called Naanak Jaara (Sweet water spring).
Tulasidas (1532-1623 CE)
Tulasidas was the first to support
bhakthi Maarga in North India. He
was born in a Brahmin family. He has
contributed to the Hindi literature. He
wrote Ramacharithamanasa. This is a
great book in Hindi in the North, it is
famous as Tulasiramayana. Ramabhaktha
Tulasidasa. He sowed devotion, pure life,
love, affection, patience, generosity among Tulasidas
the people.

36
Meerabai (1498-1569 CE)
Meerabai is a renowned saint of India
and is called as Radha of Kaliyuga. She
was born in a Rajput family in Rajasthan.
She was Raja Rathansingh's daughter.
She married prince of Mewar. She
loved philosophy from her childhood,
so she spent her time in offering Puja,
Meerabai meditation and singing. Her mother-
in-law opposed her worshipping lord
Krishna. Meerabai could not tolerate this and she left to
Brindavan, the pilgrimage place of Srikrishna. Her songs are
full of devotion and love. Giridhara Gopala is her favourite God.
She has remained eternal due to her thousands of Bhajans.
Chaithanya (1485-1533 CE)
Chaithanya was born in Nabadwip
Dham (Nadia) in Bengal in 1485 CE.
Jagannatha Mishra and Sridevi were his
parents. Vishwambara was his original name.
Eshvarpuri was his Guru. Chaithanya left his
family life and took Sanyasa at the age of 25.
He rejected casteism. Bhakthi is the only way
to attain Mukthi. Universal love is the first
Chaithanya
step towards the God, he said. He travelled
to pilgrimage places of India and spread the message of love.
Love, brotherhood and generosity are the essences of his
teachings. Today’s Hare Krishna cult has been influenced by
him. The Bengalies call him Chaithanya Mahaprabhu and
also treat him as the incarnation of lord Krishna

37
 Influences of Bhakthi cult:
Result:
hakthi saints created harmony between Hindu and
B
Muslims.
hakthi saints wrote in simple common man’s
B
language. This enriched the languages of the common
man.
3.3 Heritage of Sufi:
Like Kabir, Kanakadas, Chaitanya and others brought
in new awareness among the Hindus, Sufi saints brought
awareness among the mulsims. They worked for the harmony
among Hindu and Muslim. The Sufi cult originated in Arabia
and entered India later.
The word Sufi comes from the word ‘Saaf’ which means
clean and clear. The Sufi saints were Mystics and used to
wear woollen dress.
Essence of Sufi cult:
1. God is one. He is powerful. We are all his children.
2. Encouraged good deeds
3. All are equal
4. Opposed caste system.
Later on, Sufis were influenced by Yoga, Vedantha, and
Buddhist thoughts. Dharma means love, service to mankind
is important are some of the philosophical thoughts of Sufis.

38
Nizamuddin Auliya:
He is one of the main
Sufi saints. He lived in Delhi
and lived a life of poverty.
Masjid with thatched roof
was his centre of activity.
He refused the village gifted
by Sultan of Delhi. He preached to the devotees who visited
him, to practise good qualities and kindness.
Kwaja Bande Nawaz:
Bande Nawaz is a famous Chisthi Sufi saint. He was
the disciple of Nasiruddhin of Delhi. Bandenawaz means
protector of those who came to his shelter. His original name
was Gesudaraj means long haired. He knew Sanskrit, Arabic
Parasi, Dakani (Urdu) and many more languages. He settled
in Kalaburagi. He was respected by the king Firoz Shah. He
wrote in Dakani language. His literature is still preserved in
Kalaburagi library. Every year his Uru is held in Kalaburagi.
Chisthi Sect:
In Sufi cult Chisthi sect is important. Moyinuddin Chisthi
is the founder of this. He came and settled in Ajmera. Devotion
towards God, service to Guru, good life are the main features
of Chisthi followers. He had concern for harmony of Hindu and
Muslims. He wrote in Dakani (urdu) language. Salim Chisthi
from Fathepur Sikri was famous among them.

39
 Salim Chisthi Tomb, Agra

Lahore (Today’s Pakistan): Sheik Ismail

Ajmer : Kwaja Moyinuddin Chisthi
Delhi : Nijamuddin Aulia
Arcot : Tippu Masthara Aulia
Kalaburagi : Kwaja Bande Nawaz.

Chronology:
Nijamuddin Aulia 1238 to 1325 CE
Kabirdasa 1440 to 1518 CE
Gurunanak 1469 to 1539 CE
Purandara Dasa 1480 to 1564 CE
Chaithanya 1485 to 1533 CE
Meerabai 1498 to 1569 CE
Kanakadasa 1508 to 1606 CE
Tulasidas 1532 to 1623 CE

40
 EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. _________ is the penname of Akkamahadevi.
2. Purandaradasa was in the court of _________
3. Adikeshava is the pen name of _________
4. Kabir of Karnataka is _________
5. Chaithanya’s first name is _________
6. Sufi saint Kwaja Bande Nawaja’s other name is
_________
II. Answer the following questions in one sentence:
1. What is the original name of Aandal?
2. Where was Akkamahadevi born?
3. Who is Karnataka Sangeetha Pithamaha?
4. Name Kanakadasa’s parents.
5. Which is the sacred book of Sikhs?
6. Who is called as Radha of Kaliyuga?
7. What is the meaning of the word ‘Sufi?
8. Name Sufi saints of India.
9. Who was the founder of Chisthi cult?
10. Who is the first Kannada Muslim poet?
III. Answer the following in two three sentences each:

1. Write the message of Kabirdas

2. List out the teachings of Gurunanak.

41
 3. What are influences of Bhakthi cult?

4. Summarise the essence of Sufi cult.

IV Match the following:

A B
Gurunanak Sufi Saint
Chaithanya Sikh religion
Nijamauddin Aulia Radha of Kaliyuga

Meerabai Harekrishna cult
Discuss:
Discuss the relevance of preachings of Bhakthi cult.
Activities:
1. Collect the photos of Bhakthi saints with their details.
2. Read the Biographies of Sri Chaithanya, Guru Nanak,
Meerabai, Tulasidas, Kabir, Surdas and Sufisaints.
3. Listen to Meera Bhajans
4. Collect more information about Sufi cult. Discuss
their influences on India’s multi religious society and
their relevance in the present context and make short
note.

  

42
LESSON NAYAKAS, PALEGARAS AND
4 NAADA PRABHUS
Introduction

After the fall of Vijayanagara Empire, Karnataka came under

three administrative rulings. They were Vijayapura (Bijapura), Keladi
and Mysuru. After the decline of Vijayapura, Mughals and Marathas
ruled many regions of Karnataka. Even with presence of these rulers,
Keladi and Mysuru states protected themselves well from them and
continued the traditions and practices of Vijayanagara Empire. With
these, Palepattus (feudatory Kingdoms) grew in Chitradurga, Surapura
and Yelahanka (Bengaluru) regionally.
In this lesson, we will learn about Nayakas of Keladi, Chitradurga,
Surapura and Naada Prabhus of Yelahanka and their achievements.

Competencies

1] To understand the achievements of Senior Venkatappa

Nayaka and Shivappa Nayaka.
2] To know brave story of Rani Chennammaji.
3] To recognize the tolerance of other religions by Keladi
Nayakas.
4] To understand the bravery and achievements of Madakari
Nayaka of Chitradurga.
5] To understand the achievements of Venkatappa Nayaka IV
of Surapura.
6] To appreciate the cultural contributions of Surapura
Nayakas.
7] To know the achievements of Kempegowda I and Kempegowda
II, the Naada Prabhus of Yelahanka.

43
 4.1 Nayakas of Keladi (1499-1763 CE)
Nayakas/Palegaras: Under the control of Vijayanagara
Empire, there were many small kings. They are called Nayakas
(Chieftains) or Palegaras. The places which were ruled by these
chiefs are called ‘Palepattus’. Among these chiefs, Nayakas of
Keladi and Nayakas of Chitradurga are famous.
Keladi was founded in 1499CE during the Vijayanagara
period and later became independent. The leaders of Keladi
were ruling the coastal and malendu regions of Karnataka.
The Keladi province was large and prosperous. Keladi
consisted of Shivamogga, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi,
Kasaragodu [Kerala], Kodagu, Hassan, Tumakuruu,
Chitradurga, Dharawada and Uttara Kannada areas.
Hiriya Venkatappa Nayaka [1582 -1629 CE]: Venkatappa
Nayaka is popular among the kings of Keladi. In his period,
the Keladi kingdom attained complete freedom. He took
out military expedition till River Chandragiri in the coastal
region. With the help of Queen Abbakkadevi, he defeated
the Portuguese in Mangaluru. He defeated Adil Shahi forces
of Vijayapura and established victory pillar in Hanagal. He
encouraged all religions.
Shivappa Nayaka [1645 -1660 CE]
Shivappa Nayaka was a famous Keladi king. He
occupied the coastal forts of the Portuguese and got the title
‘Padugadalodeya’. He built strong forts in Mangaluru, Bekal
and Chandragiri [Kerala] for the security of the kingdom.
Shivappa Nayaka was a pious man.

44
 He encouraged the traders of Goa to settle in his state for
development of trade. The Christians of Goa were experts in
agriculture and he encouraged them to migrate to his state
and provided land and other contributions. He made a strict
rule that the Christian priest should be a local person.
The Sistu of Shivappa Nayaka : The revenue system
started by Shivappa Nayaka was called as ‘Sistu’. As per
this, the fixation of land revenue was based on the fertility of
the land. About 1/3 of the production was collected as land
revenue. This systematic revenue system was called ‘Sistu of
Shivappa Nayaka’. The sistu system led to the development
of Malenadu.
Queen Chennammaji (1671-1696 CE): Queen
Chennammaji, the daughter-in-law of Shivappa Nayaka
took power after him. She repelled the Mughul army and
gave protection to Chatrapathi Rajaram, the son of Shivaji.
Chennama, the symbol of valour and sacrifice of Karnataka,
fought war even with the Mysuru army.
The Keladi kings founded temples, agraharas and
veershaiva mutts. The Aghoreshwara temple in Ikkeri is
famous for sculpture. The mutts were the centres of boarding
(food facilities) and education. They contributed generously
for all the religions. Chennammaji gifted land for a Christian
church in Mangaluru.
On account of continuous wars with Mysuru and internal
wars, the Keladi kingdom became weak. Later, Hyder Ali
occupied the Keladi kingdom.

45
Chronology [In CE]
a] The period of Keladi rule - 1499 -1763 CE
b] Hiriya Venkatappa Nayaka - 1586 -1629 CE
c[ Shivappa Nayaka - 1645-1660 CE
d] Queen Chennammaji - 1671-1696 CE
e] Occupation of Keladi by Hyder Ali - 1763 CE
I] Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1] The Queen of Ullal who helped to defeat Portuguese
was _____________
2] Rani Chennammaji repelled the Mughals and
protected ______________
II] Answer the following questions in one sentence:
1] Who is called Padugadalodeya in the Keladi history?
2] How did Shivappa Nayaka encourage the Goa
Christians?
3] What is Sistu?
4] Who is Rani Chennammaji?
III] Answer in 2-3 sentences
1] What are the achievements of Hiriya Venktappa
Nayaka?
2] Write on the achievements of Nayakas of Keladi.
4.2 : The Nayakas of Chitradurga
The Nayakas of Chitadurga have prominent place in the
Karnataka history. They ruled as Chieftains from 16th to 18th
centuries.

46
 Thirteen Chieftains ruled this province for about 211 years.
Matthi Thimmanna Nayaka [1568-1589CE] was the first king
of this Palepattu. Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka-I [1603-1652 CE],
Kasturi Chikkanna Nayaka [1675-1686 CE], Bichchugatthi
Bharamanna Nayaka [1681-1721], Hiremadakari Nayaka
[1721-1749] are the famous kings.
Raajaveer Madakari Nayaka [1754-1779 CE]
He is the most powerful and popular among the Nayakas
of Chitradurga. He ascended the throne at the age of twelve
years. He helped Hyder Ali several times during wars. But
Hyder Ali became jealous of the valour of Madakari Nayaka.
In order to suppress him, Hyder Ali besieged the seven ringed
fort of Chitradurga. But it was an impossible task to occupy
such an invincible fort. The soldiers of Hyder Ali tried to enter
the fort after knowing the secret entrance, in the absence of
the watchmen. At that time, the wife of a watchman called
Obavva killed the enemies with her wooden pestle (Onake).
That secret passage is present in the fort of Chitradurga and
called ‘Obavvana Kindi’.
Hyder Ali who was not prepared to accept defeat, besieged
the fort once again. Madakari Nayaka was defeated in the
fierce war. The dynastic rule of chieftains of Chitradurga
province ended with the rule of Madakari Nayaka.
Chitradurga is an attractive hill fort consisting of seven
encircled forts. There are several temples and tanks inside
it. The Nayakas of Chitradurga built several temples. The
Bharamasagara and Bheemasamudra tanks are their
contributions. The Nayakas of Chitradurga are known for
their bravery and valour.

47
Chronology
a] Matthi Thimmanna Nayaka -1568-1589 CE
b] Bichchugatthi Bharamanna Nayaka -1689-1721 CE
c] Hiremadakari Nayaka -1721-1749 CE
d] Raajaveer Madakari Nayaka -1754-1779 CE
Answer the following questions in one sentence
1] Who is Matthi Thimmanna Nayaka?
2] Write a short note on Raajaveer Madakari Nayaka.
3] Why do we still remember Onake Obavva?
4] Name the tanks built by the Chitadurga chieftains.
4.3 : The Nayakas of Surapura
Surapura in Yadagiri district is situated in between the
rivers Krishna and Bheema. From 1637 to 1858 CE, twelve
Nayakas ruled it. Gaddipidda Nayaka was the founder of
this dynasty. His ancestors were in the Vijayanagara army.
They are one among the scattered groups after the fall of
the Vijayanagara Empire. Later, after getting the official
permission from Vijayapura Adilshahis, they started to rule
from Vaginageri. Peethambari Baharipidda Nayaka [1687-
1726 CE] made Surapura his capital after constructing it.
Later, in accordance with the agreement of the British and
the Hyderabad Nizam, Surapura came under the control of
Hyderabad. Raja Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayaka (1843-1858
CE), the son of Raja Krishnappa Nayaka came to power.
The news of the First War of Independence in India reached
Surapura. Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayaka had a plan to fight
against the British by unifying the kings of South India. He

48
enlisted Arabs and Rohilas in his army. And he also started
to train the army. On hearing these developments, the British
officer Thornhill wrote a letter to Captain Campbell on 24th
December 1857 and directed him to take immediate action
against Raja Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayaka.
The British regiment entered Surapura in 1858 and battle
ensued. The enraged army of Surapura broke the bones of
Stuart. Newberry also fell. Meanwhile, Nalvadi Venkatappa
Nayaka travelled to Hyderabad to bring the special forces
of Arab and Rohil. The British forces entered Surapura and
destroyed it. The Prime Minister of Hyderabad Nizam Salar
Jung handed over Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayaka on the pretext
of helping him, with the intention of getting a favour. British
kept Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayaka in a prison at Secunderabad.
Later, he was subjected to enquiry and was awarded death
sentence.
On the plea made by a British officer Medose Taylor,
the Governor General of India dropped the death sentence
condemned him for four years deportation. While he was taken
to a fort in Chengalpet near Madras, the British betrayed and
shot the resting Venkatappa dead. Later, they spread the false
news that he committed suicide.
Later, the British gifted Surapura to the Nizam of
Hyderabad. The successors of Surapura province spent their
time under the Nizam. Finally, when the province of Nizam
of Hyderabd merged with the Indian Union on September 17,
1948, Surapura also merged with India.
The Surapura Nayakas have contributed to the field of
culture. Their rule still finds resonance in the minds of people
due to their pro people programmes. They built tanks, temples,

49
wells, forts and palaces. Many Jahagirs (Land gifts) were
given. They had provided Inam land to sutain the worship
the of their Patron God Venkataramana at Thirupathi and
Gopalaswamy. They had offered patronage to many artists,
sculptors and musicians. Many literary works of good value
were written during their reign. They were known for their
religious tolerance.
The Surapura rulers always accorded prominent place to
paintings. The design and techiniques of Surapura paintings
are of high quality. The Surapura paintings stand unique
from Viyaynagara, Vijayapura and Mysuru Paintings. These
paintings can be seen the museums of London, Hyderabad’s
Salarjung Museum.
Chronology
1] The period of rule by Surapura - 1636-1858 CE
Chieftains
2] Peethambari Baharipidda Nayaka - 1687-1726 CE
3] Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayaka - 1843-1858 CE
4] The fall of Surapura - February 09, 1858
5] Merger of Surapura with Indian - September 17, 1948
Union
I. Answer the following questions in one sentence
1] Who is the founder of the Surapura Province?
2] What is the name of the King who built Surapura
capital?

50
II. Discucss in groups and answer the following questions
1] Write a note on the achievements of Nalavadi
Venkatappa Nayaka.
2] Explain the literary contributions of the Surapura
Chieftains.
4.4 : Naada Prabhus of Yelahanka
Ranabhaire Gowda is the founder of Yelahanka
Naadaprabhu dynasty. After Ranabhaire Gowda, Jayagowda,
Gidde Gowda, Kempananje Gowda and others ruled. The
most popular ruler of this dynasty is Hiriya Kempe Gowda.
Therefore, the rulers of Yelahanka are known as the rulers
from Kempegowda dynasty. They were Naadaprabhus during
the rule of Vijayanagara empire. They ruled Bengaluru,
Ramanagara, Tumakuru and undivided Kolar districts in their
period. Since Yelahanka was the first capital, they are called
Yelahanka Naadaprabhus. Later, Bengaluru and Magadi were
their capitals.
Hiriya Kempe Gowda [1532-1597 CE] : Hiriya
Kempegowda founded Bengaluru city in 1537 CE. He built
a fort in Bengaluru and started his rule from it. He built
Basava Temple of Basavanagudi, Someshwara Temple of
Halasuru and extended the Gavigangadareshwara temple. He
is credited of building several prominent tanks. Some of them
are: Dharmambudhi tank, Halasur tank and Sampangi tank.
Hiriya Kempegowda was a devotee of Gangadhareshwara of
Shivagange and built several choultries and agraharas. He
also earned the title ‘Prajavatsala’ in recognition of his pious
administration.

51
 Kempe Gowda-II [1597-1641 CE) : Kempe Gowda-II
was the elder son of Hiriya Kempe Gowda. During his period,
Army General Ranadulla Khan of Vijayapura Adil Shahis
occupied Bengaluru in 1638. Hence, Kempe Gowda-II started
to rule Magadi and Kunigal regions and made Magadi his
capital. Usually, the rulers of this family are called as Magadi
Kempegowdas. Kempegowda-II had marked the borders of
Bengaluru and had built four watch towers in the marked
places. During his reign, Bengaluru grew as a major weaving
centre. He built forts at Magadi, Savanadurga, Huliyurdurga,
Huthridurga and others. Like his father, he also constructed
new villages, temples and tanks.
Kempe Gowda-II handed over the political power of Magadi
to his son Kempe Gowda-III and the power of Kunigal province
to his another son Hiriya Kempe Gowda II. Kempe Gowda-III
[1641-1674 CE] constructed the Kempasagara tank in order
to tackle drought. Hiriya Kempegowda-II [1641-1662 CE] was
not only brave but was also a multi language academician.
He earned the title ‘Nava Kavita Gumbhapumbhavani’ in
recognition of his literary achievements. His queens built
Agraharas, tanks and temples in Kunigal and Huliyurdurga.
Later, the regions ruled by the Yelahanka Chieftains
merged with the Mysuru province.

Chronology
1] Hiriya Kempegowda - 1532-1597 CE
2] Kempegowda-II - 1597-1641 CE
3] Kempe Gowda-III - 1641-1674 CE

4] Hiriya Kempegowda-II - 1641-1662 CE.

52
Know this

The watch towers built by Kempegowda-II are present in

the following areas of present Bengaluru: the North tower
-Mekhri circle, the South tower-Lalbagh, the East tower-
Halsoor and the West tower-Gavi Gangadhareshwara.

EXERCISES

I. Answer the following questions in one sentence

1. Who is the founder of Yelahanka Naadaprabhu
dynasty?
2. Who is the founder of Bengaluru city?
3. Name the capitals of Yelahanka Naadaprabhus.
4. What was the title given to Kempegowda-II?

II. Answer the following questions in one sentence

1. What are the achievements of Hiriya Kempegowda?

2. Write a short note on Kempegowda-II.

Activity

Yelahanka Chieftains constructed several tanks around

Bengaluru. Many tanks have disappeared now and discuss
on the effect of this disappearance and send prepare a report
to submit to the government.

  

53
 LESSON
5
WODEYARS OF MYSURU

Introduction

The Wodeyars of Mysuru, Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan are

introduced. Important Wodeyar rulers like Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV,
and others are introduced. The important Dewans are introduced.
Competencies

1] Appreciating pro-people achievements of Chikkadevaraya

2] To know the reasons and results of battles of Haider Ali and
Tippu Sultan against British.
3] To know the contributions of Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan
4] To understand the achievements of Nalvadi Krishnaraja
Wodeyar.
5] Mark the historical places of Mysuru Province on a map.

5.1 Important Wodeyars of Mysuru:

Yaduraya was the first king of Mysuru Wodeyars (1399-
1423 CE) Gandabherunda was the emblem of the state.
Srirangapatna was their first capital.
Chikkadevaraya (1673-1704 CE)
Chikkadevaraya is the prominent king
of early kings. He implemented many
pro-people measures. He opened ‘Attara
Kacheri’ with eighteen departments. He
built a dam across the western stream
of River Kaveri near Srirangapatna and
provided irrigation facility. He introduced Chikkadevaraya
thrift in his administration and enriched
the treasury and was conferred with ‘Navakoti Narayana’ title.

54
 Mysuru state was prosperous during the reign of
Chikkadevaraya. But the later Kings were weak. The
administration was overseen by Dalawoys, who ruled in the
name of Kings.

Athara Kacheri, Mysuru

5.2 Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan

Hyder Ali (1761-1782 CE)
Hydar Ali was an eminent commander
in Dalawoy Nanjarajaiah’s army. He was
brave and adventurous. He won many
battles and accumulated army and wealth.
This made him gain respect from the king.
When there was a revolt in the capital
city, Hyder Ali suppressed it and restored
the Kingship of Krishnaraja Wodeyar and
removed the Dalawoy and took over the
Hyder Ali
administration.

55
 Soon after taking over the administration, he engaged in
extending the borders of the state. He defeated the Keladi
ruler and confiscated the wealth of them and improved his
financial status. He also took over the Chitradurga fort with
a lot of difficulty.
Battles with British:
The British came for business and gradually became
powerful in politics. The British did not tolerate the expansion
of Mysuru kingdom in the south by Hyder Ali. This led to an
inevitable clash between Hyder Ali and British.

The four battles waged by Hyder Ali and later by his son
Tippu Sultan against British are called ‘Anglo Mysuru wars’
or ‘Mysuru Wars’.

In the First Anglo-Mysuru war, the British suffered

considerable loss. Hence, they had to sign Madras Treaty with
Hyder Ali inevitably. As per the treaty, both the parties rush
to each others rescue if attacked by any enemy. This elevated
the status of Hyder Ali.
A few years later, Marathas attacked Mysuru kingdom.
Then, the Britishers did not come to the aid of Hyder Ali and
remained neutral. This enraged Hyder Ali and he invaded
British. This is the Second Anglo-Mysuru war. Hyder Ali died
while fighting this war. The battle was continued by Tippu
Sultan.
Achievements of Hyder Ali : Hyder Ali was aware of
contemporary politics. Though he was an illiterate, he knew
many languages including Kannada. He extended the kingdom
Mysuru considerably. He was a brave soldier and an efficient
administrator. Hyder Ali has an important place in the anals
of Karnataka history. He established the beautiful Lalbagh
gardern in Bengaluru.

56
Tippu Sultan (1782-1799 CE)
Tippu Sultan was the son of Hyder Ali. Tippu
participated in his father’s battles actively and
emerged as winner and declared himself as the
Sultan.
Tippu led the Second Anglo-Mysuru war
when his father Hyder Ali died in the battle due
to illness.
After the death of his father he continued the Tippu Sultan
Anglo Mysuru wars. Nobody came to help him.
He fought against Britishers bravely. At last the British signed the
‘Treaty of Mangaluru’. This treaty was beneficial for both parties.
Both the parties returned their captured areas and exchanged the
prisoners of war. This treaty increased the stature of Tippu.
In a very short duration, another two battles took place between
Tippu and Britishers. The mutual hatredness and disbelief was
the main reason for this.
In the third Anglo-Mysuru war, the
Map
Mysuru UNDER TIPU (1789)
Britishers lay siege to the capital city of
Kingdom of Keladi
Tippu's Srirangapattana. Without any
alternative, Tippu had to sign a Peace
treaty with the British. As per the peace
treaty Tippu had to surrender half his
kingdom to the British and had pay
330 lakh as compensation. Until the
compensation is cleared, two sons of
Tippu were taken as hostages.
This treaty made Tippu feel disgraced.
He decided to throw the British out of
India. The fourth Anglo-Mysuru started.
Again Srirangapatanam was under
siege. Tippu fought valiantly and died in
the battle field. Tippu Sultan is known
as ‘Tiger of Mysuru’.

57
 After the fall of Tippu Sultan, Mysuru came under the rule
of British. They handed over the administration to Krishnaraja
Wodeyar III. But, Mysuru became the dependent state of the
British.
Personality and achievements of Tippu:
• Tippu was aware of the latest achievements in science
and technology. He had a very good library. He built Bengaluru
palace and summer palace in Srirangapattana (Dariya
Doulath). The walls, pillars and the roof of the summer palace
are painted with paintings depicting historical incidents.

Bengaluru palace

Dariya Doulath, Srirangapattana

58
 • Tippu put a lot of efforts to enrich his kingdom. He
popularized Sriculture in the state. He modernized his army
with the help of French. He moulded guns in Srirangapattana.
Mastering the technique of launching rockets was his
uniqueness.
• Tippu sanctioned grants to many Hindu temples and
he gave gifts to Shringeri Math. He brought many changes in
the field sericulture and helped farmers by giving loans which
could be repayed in easy installments.
• The tomb of Hyder Ali and the Jumma Masjid were
great constructions finished by Tippu. The Minarets of the
Masjid are known for the beauty. He established royal mints
at Srirangapattana and Mysuru.

Jumma Masjid Srirangapattana

59
Krishnaraja Wodeyar III (1799-1831 CE)
The period of wars ended with
the fall of Tippu Sultan. The British
took over the Mysuru state and
divided into four parts among
Marathas, Nizam and themselves.
The remaining one part was returned
to Mysuru Wodeyars. Krishnaraja
Wodeyar III was brought to power.
Since, Krishnaraja Wodeyar III was
only five year old boy, Poornaiah was Krishnaraja Wodeyar III
appointed as the Diwan of Mysuru.
As they felt that Krishnaraja Wodeyar III did not properly
suppress the revolt of Bidanuru of Shivamogga, they dethroned
the King and brought the administration of Mysuru under a
commissioner.
Administration of Commissioners (1831-1881 CE)
Mark Cubbon (1834-1861 CE)
Mark Cubbon implemented many
administrative reforms in the state. He
transferred the capital from Mysuru to
Bengaluru. Mysuru was divided into many
administrative units and kept them under
superintendent’s supervision. Administration
units were divided into Districts and Talukas.
Judiciary and police departments were
organized well. Kannada was implemeneted
as the official language. 5.Mark
10 ªÀCubbon
iÁPïð PÀ§â£ï
New roads were built and as a result all the major places
of the state could get connected directly to Bengaluru. Bridges
were built and telegraph lines were laid. The construction
of railway line between Bengaluru and Jolarpet started.
This was the first railway in the state. He resigned from the
commissioner post in 1861. The Cubbon Park was built in
his memory.

60
Louis Bentham Bowring (1862-1870 CE)

Louis Bentham Bowring took charge as

the commissioner in 1862. He reorganized
the administration structure of Mysuru
state. The land revenue collection process
was reorganized. Judiciary and Police
department were established properly.
Educational reforms were introduced with
the establishment of Public Instrcution. Louis Bentham
Bowring resigned from the Commissioner Bowring
post in 1870. The commissioner laid the
strong foundation for the development of Mysuru state.
Chamaraj Wodeyar X (1881-1894 CE)

In 1881 British handed over the

administration of the state again to
Chamaraja Wodeyar X. This is called
Punardana. C.Rangacharlu and K.Sheshadri
Iyer ruled as Diwans under him. In 1881
People Representative Assembly started
functioning.

Chamaraj Wodeyar X

Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar (1902 –

1940 CE)

Chamaraja Wodeyar X died in Calcutta

while there on a visit. Naalvadi Krishnaraja
Wodeyar ascended throne as his successor
in 1895 and he was only eleven years old
then. The administration was run by his
Naalvadi Krishnaraja mother Nanjammanni. The direct rule of
Wodeyar Naalvadi started from 1902. He was well

61
educated and laid a firm foundation for a modern state during
his long reign. He was visionary and had a soft corner for the
welfare of the downtrodden. He formed Miller Commission in
order to ensure the participation of all sections of the society
in the administration.
Achievements of Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar:
e gave 371 acres of land and five lakh rupees grants
H
to J.N.Tata to start a science institution in Bengaluru.
I n 1907 Legislative Assembly was established. This
enabled people to discuss their problem through
their representatives.
e built K.R.S. Dam and developed agriculture in the
H
State.
The present Mysuru Palace was completed in 1910.
he Mysuru Economic Conference was started in
T
1911
e passed the order that backward class should get
H
special representation in Government Service.
He gave voting power to women first the time.
Naalvadi ushered in development in education, industries,
Banking and other important sectors by the role of a guide and
a motivator. He appointed talented Diwans who could translate
his vision into reality. Among them, Sir M. Vishveshwaraiah
and Sir Mirja Ismail are important.
Mahatma Gandhiji called the Mysuru state of Naalavdi as
the ‘Ramarajya’ and called him ‘Rajashri’. There is no mature
ruler like Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar in the early part of
twentieth century.

62
 Mysuru Palace was built in the year 1910. The fire had
destroyed the previous wooden palace. Skilled workers had
come from different places for its construction. The main hall
(Darbar Hall) was painted by famous artist Rajaraviverma.
Financial difficulties aroused during the constructin of
Krishna Raja Sagar dam across river Kaveri. The royal family
sold its gold ornaments in Bombay and raised money for the
constrcution work.

Mysuru Palace

Sir M.Vishveswaraiah: (1912-1918 CE)

Sir M Vishveshwaraiah considered

as ‘the sculptor and creator of Modern
Mysuru’. He worked as the Chief Engineer
of Mysuru from 1909 to 1912. Naalvadi
Krishnaraja Wodeyar appointed him as
the Diwan of Mysuru in 1912. During this
period, Mysuru state progressed as per the
vision of Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar.
Sir M.Vishveshwaraiah

63
 ‘Industrailise or Perish’ was the famous declaration of
Sir M Vishveshwaraiah. He started ‘Sandalwood Factory’ at
Mysuru, a soap factory, Central Industrial Workshop; Leather
Processing and metal factories were started in Bengaluru.
In order to provide impetus to trade and commerce, Mysuru
Chambers of Commerce and Industries was started at
Bengaluru. Mysuru Bank was started in 1913 to provide
support to the growth of industries.
Vishveshwaraiah had believed that education is the key to
progress of a country. He made primary education compulsory
and gave importance to technical education. He established
an agricultural school at Hebbal. The University of Mysuru
established in the year 1916 has achieved phenomenal
success. Kannada Sahitya Parishad was established in the
year 1915. The construction of the KRS dama continued and
got completed in the year 1932. The railway lines between
Mysuru and Arasikere ; Bowringpete and Kolar was laid.
Vishveshwaraiah was instrumental in implementing many of
the visionary programmes of Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar.
Finally, he resigned from the post of Diwan in the year 1918.
The British government awarded with Knight Commander.
The Government of India awarded Bharatha Ratna in 1955.
He was the first Kannadiga to receive it.

Kannada Sahitya Parishath, Bengaluru State Bank of Mysuru

64
 Krishnaraja Sagara Dam

Sir Mirza Ismail: (1926-1941CE)

Diwan Sir Mirza Ismail is also considered
as one of the builders of modern Mysuru.
He also established various industries
as per the wish of Naalvadi Krishnaraja
Wodeyar. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited,
Glass industry, Porcelain factory, Fertilizer
Industry at Belagola, Sugar Factory at
Mandya, Matchstick factory at Shivamogga
and Iron and Steel Factory at Bhadravathi.
An airport was established at Jakkur.
Sir Mirza Ismail Radio stations were started Bengaluru
and Mysuru. He also encouraged rural
industries. A Khadi production centre was established at
Badanavalu near Mysuru. Irrigation facility was given to
Madya district by constructing Irwin Canal. The city of Mysuru
was made the city of gardens. The Brindavan Gardens was
established in front of the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam.

65
 Brindavana Garden

National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences

(NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, Narasimharaja Hospital in Kolar,
McGann Hospital in Shimogga, Vanivilasa Hospital in Mysuru
were started during his time.
Primary education was encouraged and Primary education
law was implemented. The private schools were offered aid
to run the schools. Kannada Medium education was offered
in high schools. Thus, Sir Mirza Ismail was instrumental in
implementing the visions of Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. Sir
Mirza Ismail was also the classmate of Naalvadi Krishnaraja
Wodeyar and was successful in the translating the vision of
Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar’s into reality.
After the death of Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar,
Jayachamaraja Wodeyar came into power. He was the last ruler
of the Mysuru state.

66
 After the declaration of Indian Independence, a Sathyagraha
started in front of the Palace pressing for the inclusion of Mysuru
state in the Indian Federation under the leadership of K.C.Reddy.
as a result, Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar accepted the demand
to become part of India. A responsible government came into
existence under the leadership of K.C. Reddy on October 24th,
1947. Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar later became the first
Governor of Mysuru State.
Chronology:
Chikkadevaraja Wodeyar 1673-1704 CE
Hyder Ali 1761-1782 CE
Tippu Sultan 1782-1799 CE
First Anglo Mysuru War 1767-1769 CE
Second Anglo Mysuru War 1780-1784 CE
Third Anglo Mysuru War 1790-1792 CE
Fourth Anglo Mysuru War 1799 CE
Mark Cubbon 1834-1861 CE
Bowring 1862-1870 CE
Chamaraja Wodeyar X 1881-1894 CE
Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar 1902-1940 CE
Sir M.Vishveshwaraiah 1912-1918 CE
Sir Mirza Ismail 1926-1941 CE

67
 EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks:
1. ________ was the capital of early Mysuru Wodeyars.
2. After the second Anglo Mysuru War British and Tippu
signed ________ treaty.
3. _______ was famous as Tiger of Mysuru.
4. _______ was the Diwan of Krishnaraja Wodeyar III.
5. Legislative Assembly started in the year _______ at
Mysuru state.
6. Gandhiji described Mysuru State as ________ .
7. _______ was the first Kannadiga to get Bharath Rathna
award.
8. Irwin canal was built by Dewan __________ .
II. Answer the following in a sentence each:
1. Who established Athara Kacheri?
2. Where is Dariya Doulath?
3. Where is Lalbagh? Who started this?
4. Who came to power after Tippu’s death?
5. Why was the administration of commissioners
introduced?
6. Name the important commissioners of Mysuru
7. What is Punaradana?
8. When did Praja Prathinidhi Sabhe came into
existence?
9. Where is Kannada Sahithya Parishad? When was it
established?
10. Who led the Palace Protest?

68
III. Discuss in groups and answer:
1. What are the achievements of Hyder Ali?
2. Write a note on the results of Third Anglo Mysuru
War?
3. What are the achievements of Tippu Sultan?
4. List the achievements of Naalvadi Krishnaraja
Wodeyar
5. What are the achievements of Sir M.Vishveshwaraiah?
IV. Match the following:
Chikkadevaraja Wodeyar Rajarshi
Tippu Sultan Bharatha Rathna
Naalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar Navakoti Narayana
Sir M. Vishveshwaraiah First Governor
Jayachamaraja Wodeyar Tiger of Mysuru
Activities:
1. Mark the historical places in Mysuru State map.
2. Discuss and write: Though Tippu Sulthan tried to
end the foreign occupation, he failed in his mission.
Why?.

  

69
LESSON
6 THE SULTANS OF DELHI
Introduction
During the 11-12th centuries the Turks repeatedly invaded Indian
territories. These invasions finally culminated in the establishment
of the rule of the Sultans of Delhi
(1206-1526 CE). This Lesson briefly states the policies of the
sultans, their administration, socio-economic conditions of the period
and the contributions made by them to architecture and literature.
Competencies
1] Understanding how the Turkish invasions during the 11-12th
centuries finally led to the establishment of the rule of the Delhi
Sultans.

2] Understanding the impact of the rule of the sultans on the

political, social and cultural life of the people.

3] Marking the historical places of the Sultanate Period on the

map.

Beginning from the 8th century, there were repeated

invasions from across the north-western borders of India.
These invasions aimed at looting the wealth, acquiring
territories and spreading Islam.
The Arab invasion: The Arabs were the first to invade the
Indian territories. They invaded Sindh in 712 CE. As a result
of their victory, the provinces of Sindh and Multan came under
their control. With this, the Islam started taking roots in the
newly conquered lands. However, the Arab aggression soon
decelerated.
The Turkish invasion - Mohammad Ghazni: Three
centuries later, Mohammad Ghazni of Turkish origin invaded
India. Mohammad was the Sultan of Ghazni, a small kingdom

70
in Afghanistan. He invaded India seventeen times, looting
and destroying prosperous cities and wealthy temples.
Among such temples included Sri Krishna temple at Mathura
(Uttar Pradesh) and the rich and sacred temple of Somanath
(Gujarat).

Mohammed Ghazni Mohammed Ghori

Mohammad Ghori: During the last quarter of the 12th
century Mohammed Ghori, who was ruling a kingdom in
Afghanistan, invaded India and secured the provinces of
Sindh and Punjab. When he made further advances into
Indian territories, Prithviraj Chauhan, the king of Delhi and
Ajmer, routed him in a battle. However, Mohammad was
spared from death penalty. The very next year Mohammad
came to India and fought with Prithviraj and defeated him.
Mohammad ordered him to be killed. Delhi came under the
control of Mohammad Ghori. Before returning to Afghanistan
he transferred the conquered territories to his general by name
Qutubuddin Aibak. Aibak started ruling as the sultan of Delhi.
The Slave Dynasty
Qutubuddin was the first sultan of Delhi. He had originally
been a slave and hence the dynasty founded by him is known
as the 'Slave' dynasty. The Slave, the Khilji, the Tuglaq, the
Syyid and the Lodi are the five dynasties, who ruled Delhi.

71
He strengthened the Turkish rule in India by defeating his
enemies. To mark his victory he started constructing Qutb
Minar at Mehrauli near Delhi. Later it was completed by
Sultan Iltumish.

Qutubuddin Aibak Qutub Minar, Delhi

The only female ruler during the Sultanate period was

Raziya. A daring sultana, she dispensed justice in the royal
court. She dressed herself as a man and led army in the
battlefield.Intolerant of a woman's rule, the nobles rebelled
and killed her.
The Khilji Dynasty
After the Slave dynasty, the Khilji dynasty came to power.
Allauddin Khilji was the strongest of all the sultans of Delhi.
His rule was based on military power.
Policies: Allauddin introduced several reforms in
administrative, military and economic fields. He regulated the
price of goods commonly consumed. He banned consumption
of liquor and gambling in Delhi. The guilty were severely
punished.
Military campaigns: Allauddin aspired to conquer entire
India. In the first instance, he conquered North India by

72
his military strength. To South India he sent Malik Kafur, a
slave who was close to him, with a huge army. Malik Kafur
invaded the four major kingdoms of South India and looted
their capitals.

The kingdoms conquered by Malik Kafur were the Yadavas

of Maharashtra (capital Devagiri), the Kakatiyas of Andhra
(Warangal), the Hoysalas of Karnataka (Dorasamudra) and
the Pandyas of Tamil Nadu (Madurai).
Malik Kafur, continuing his military march, proceeded
upto Rameshwaram. All along the route his army destroyed
several places of worship and looted wealth. Never before had
such a huge quantity of wealth of South India flowed to Delhi.
Allauddin patronised Amir Khusrau, Amir Hasan and other
Persian poets. He built a new fort in Delhi known as Siri. Alai
Darwaza in Delhi, a grand structure, was his contribution to
architecture.

Alai Darwaza, Delhi

73
 Allauddin's last days were tragic. There were several revolts
in the palace to overthrow him. Finally, Malik Kafur, out of
greed for power, killed his master and declared himself a
sultan. But he too was killed by his enemies. Within a short
time, the Khilji rule ended and the Tughlaqs came to power.
The Tughlaq Dynasty
Mohammad bin Tughlaq was the most notable sultan of
the Tughlaq dynasty. He was imprudent and ill-tempered who
took hasty decisions. He could be easily enraged. In a word,
he was a strange character.
Administrative experiments - Transfer of capital: To
improve the functioning of the administration he undertook
several experiments. One such experiment was the transfer
of capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Maharashtra). He was of the
view that the capital should be centrally located. Devagiri, 700
miles from Delhi, was renamed Daulatabad. He passed strict
orders that all the residents of Delhi should move to the new
place. The residents of Delhi, who were forced to leave their
homes, faced untold misery in the course of their journey to
a far place in the south. A large number of them died on their
way. Anyway, after shifting the capital he realized that he had
committed a grave mistake. So he ordered reshifting of the
capital and the people to Delhi. However, only a few survived
to return to Delhi.
Issue of token coins: Another reform of Mohammad
was that, he issued copper coins in place of silver coins
with the same face value. But he failed to pass order that
only the government had the authority to mint copper coins.
Consequently people themselves began to mint copper tokens.
This resulted in the devaluation of coins. Finally he abolished
the use of copper coins. He exchanged the silver coins for

74
copper coins. The treasury was empty. He was deceived by the
people. This experiment proved a great failure and weakened
the financial condition of the state. The government could not
meet the demand for silver coins in exchange for token coins.
Discontented by Mohammad's rule, people revolted. While he
was putting down a revolt in Sindh province, he died of fever.
After the Tughlaq rule, the Sayyed and the Lodi dynasties
ruled from Delhi for a short period. The last Lodi ruler Ibrahim
was defeated in the battle of Panipat by Babur who laid the
foundation of the Mughal rule.
Contributions of Delhi Sultans
● Administration: Although the Hindus formed the
majority under the sultanate, the administration functioned
on Islamic lines. The army formed the backbone of the state.
The sultans were absolute. Balban, a notable sultan, declared
that he was God's representative and hence accountable to
God alone. The sultans, however, had to face frequent revolts
of the local rulers, and were always fearful of losing power.
● Economy: The burden of land tax heavily fell on the
peasants. Mohammad bin Tughlaq further increased the
land revenue and got it collected mercilessly. Consequently
peasants revolted everywhere.
Weaving was a major occupation of the people. The cities
provided employment to a large number of workers on account
of brisk building activities taking place there. The Sultans
were mainly importing horses.
Architecture and literature: The main structures built
by the sultans were the famous Qutub Minar (17 m tall), Alai

75
Darwaza, an impressive entrance, Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque
and the fort of Siri. All these are in Delhi.During the sultanate
period, the Urdu language evolved. Amir Khusrau and Amir
Hasan were great Persian poets of the period. Amir Khusrau
was a great musician and evolved musical instruments such
as tabla, sitar and others. The poet Jayasi wrote Padmavat in
Urdu which was a sufi poem. Ramananda, Kabirdas, Raidas
and Meerabai belonged to this period.

Chronology

Arab invasion of Sindh - 712 CE

Mohammad Ghazni's invasions - 1000-1026 CE
Tarian Battles (between Muhammad Ghori
and Prthiviraj Chouhan) - 1191-1192 CE
Delhi Sultans - 1206-1526 CE
Qutubuddin Aibak - 1206-1210 CE
Raziya Sulthana - 1236-1240 CE
Allauddin Khilji - 1296-1316 CE
Mohammad bin Tughlaq - 1325-1351 CE
Battle of Panipat and beginning
of the Mughal rule - 1526 CE

New word:
Minar : An elevated tall tower.

76
 EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks with an appropriate word:
1. __________ was defeated by Prithviraj Chauhan in the
first battle of Tarain.
2. ___________ was the capital built by Allauddin Khilji
in Delhi.
3. ___________ defeated Ibrahim Lodi in the first battle
of panipat.

II. Answer the following questions in a sentence each:

1. Whom did Mohammed Ghori defeat in the second
battle of Tarain?
2. Who build Qutub Minar?
3. Who was the only woman ruler of the Delhi Sultanate?
4. Who was the commander-in-chief sent by Allauddin
Khilji to conquer South India?
5. From where did Mohammad bin Tughlaq shift his
capital to?
6. Which Sultan declared himself as, 'The Representative
of God'?
III. Discuss in groups and answer
1. What were the results of Mohammad Ghazni's
invasions?
2. Name the dynastics of Delhi Sultanate?
3. State the achievements of Qutubuddin Aibak.
4. State the policies of Allauddin Khilji.
5. Explain the experiments of Mohammad bin Tughlaq?

77
 6. What were the contributions of the Delhi Sultans to
architecture and literature?
IV. Match the items in column 'A' with those of column
'B'
A B
Jayasi Alai Darwaza
Daulatabad Sitar
Allauddin Khilji Padmavat
Amir Khusrao Devagiri.

Activities:
1. Collect the pictures of the monuments of the period
of Delhi Sultans, with brief notes.
2. Mark on the map places associated with the Sultans
of Delhi.

  

78
LESSON
7
THE MUGHAL EMPIRE
Introduction
Babur invaded India in 1526 and after overthrowing the Delhi
Sultanate, established the Mughal rule. In this Lesson, the reign
of Akbar and Aurangzeb are described. Their administration and
contributions to culture are also explained. At the end, the causes
for the decline of the empire are mentioned.
Competencies
1] Appreciating Akbar’s liberal policies and achievements.

2] Understanding how Aurangzeb’s narrow-minded policies led to

riots in the country, and ultimately to the decline of the dynasty.

3] Appreciating how the Mughal emperors enriched the fields of

literature and art.

4] Marking on the map historical places relating to the Mughal

era.

There were three empires in the history of India. One is

Maurya Empire, second is Gupta Empire and the third one
is Mughal Empire. The founder of the Mughal dynasty was
Babur. He was ruling a small region in Afghanistan called
Kabul, and was waiting for an opportunity to attack India
which was rich and prosperous.
Babur belonged to the Mongol race. The word 'Mughal'
comes from 'Mongol'. Rose was introduced to India by Babar.

Taking advantage of the growing weakness of the Delhi

sultans, Babur invaded Delhi and ended their reign. But he
could not stop at that because the Rajputs and the Afghans
resisted him strongly. The brave warrior that he was, Babur,
with his powerful weapons, forced the opposing armies to
retreat.

79
 Soon Babur conquered Delhi, Agra and the surrounding
areas and established his kingdom. But he died soon. His
son, Humayun, ascended the throne.
Humayun: Though Humayun managed to overpower his
enemies in the beginning, he had to face defeat at the hands
of the Afghan chieftain, Sher Shah Suri. Having lost his
kingdom, he fled to Persia and stayed there for fifteen years.
When the Afghan rule in India weakened, Humayun invaded
India and conquered Delhi. However, he died within a short
period thereafter.
Akbar
Humayun’s son, Akbar, had
always aspired to build a vast empire
in India. With this intention, he tried
to persuade the mighty Rajput kings
to support him. Some among them
joined hands with him. But Rana
Pratap Simha of Mewad opposed
Akbar tooth and nail. He was a proud
and brave warrior. Later, a fierce
battle between the Rana and Akbar
took place at Haldighat (Rajasthan).
Though Rana Pratap Simha was Akbar
defeated in the battle, he did not bow
down to Akbar.
Thereafter, Akbar engaged himself actively in military
compaigns for many years. As a result, he conquered Gujarat,
Bengal, Kashmir, Kabul and other areas, and built a vast
empire.

80
 Akbar’s achievements
Administration: Akbar was an able administrator and a
broad-minded ruler. He possessed many of the qualities needed
for a great king. He was not a despotic ruler. He realized that
in order to preserve his vast empire, it was necessary to win
the trust of his Hindu subjects who formed the majority. He
appointed Hindus to high posts in his court. He withdrew the
personal tax called jiziya which was imposed by the earlier
Muslim kings on Hindus, and also the tax levied at pilgrimage
centres. Akbar’s land revenue policy was well received by the
people. It was framed by his revenue minister, Raja Todarmal.
Religious policy: Akbar was tolerant of other religions. He
constructed a prayer hall (Ibadat Khana) in his new capital,
Fatehpur Sikri, where he discussed religious matters with
leaders of various Islamic sects. He invited Hindu, Jaina,
Buddhist, Parsi and Christian leaders to discuss their views
on religious issues. As a result of such discussions, he evolved
a new sect called the Din-e-Ilahi. It incorporated some of the
best principles of different religions. However, it could attract
only a handful of followers.
Patronage to arts: Akbar patronised literature and art.
Faizi, Abul Fazl and Birbal were the distinguished poets in
his court. The immortal singer, Tansen, adorned his court.
Akbar’s contributions to architecture and painting are also
remarkable.

Jahangir and Shah Jahan, who succeeded Akbar to the

throne, continued his policies to a great extent. Shah Jahan
achieved fame by getting the famous Taj Mahal built at Agra,
the mammoth Red Fort at Delhi and other stately palaces.

81
 Aurangzeb
Shah Jahan’s son, Aurangzeb, is the last
well-known Mughal emperor. He ruled for a
long period of fifty years. During this period,
the empire expanded in all directions, but at
the end it declined rapidly.
Religious policy: Aurangzeb was an
orthodox Muslim. He stayed away from
drinking wine, gambling, entertainment and
music. He lived a simple life.
Aurangzeb
Aurangzeb gave up the liberal policy of
Akbar. He reimposed the jiziya . This led to many political
rebilions.

The Sikh rebellion: The Sikhs were provoked by

Aurangzeb’s religious policiy. The Sikh Guru, Tegh Bahadur,
was publicly executed in Delhi. His son Guru Govindasimha
organised the Sikh community into a militant sect. The
members were designated as Singh (lion). They had to
possess the five k’s at all times. These were: Kesh: long hair;
Kanga: comb; Kirpan: sword; Kachcha: a pair of knicker-
bockers; and Kara: steel bracelet. This custom is prevalent
among Sikhs even today.

Rebellions: The Sikhs and the Rajputs strongly opposed

Aurangzeb in north India. Shivaji rose in revolt in the Deccan.
The revolts continued for a long time and as a result Aurangzeb
lost enormous wealth, a large part of his army and worst of
all, his prestige. Many provinces of his empire became free.
The Deccan wars sapped Aurangzeb’s economic power as well
as military strength. Being exhausted, he died in the Deccan.
With his death, the Mughal Empire was greatly weakened.

82
The Cultural Contributions
The Mughal Administration
The Emperor possessed all civil and military powers. His
judgement was final in all matters.The empire was divided into
provinces (subas), districts (sarkars) and taluks (paraganas).
The kotwal looked after law and order in the cities.
Revenue system: Akbar’s minister, Raja Todarmal, framed
the land revenue system. Under the system, the land revenue
was fixed on the basis of the fertility of the soil.
Literature: The Mughals patronized Persian literature in
a special way. There were famous historians like Abul Fazl,
Nizamuddin and Badauni in Akbar’s court. Akbar-nama is
an important literary work of Abul Fazl. Darashukoh, the
Mughal prince, was an extraordinary scholar. He translated
the Bhagavadgita. Though Hindi literature did not receive
royal patronage, it flourished on account of the efforts of the
Bhakti saints. Ramacharitamanas, the well-known work of
Tulsidas, is of this period.
Architecture: Humayun’s tomb in Delhi was constructed
during the early period of Akbar’s reign. He built a new capital
near Agra and named it Fatehpur Sikri. The magnificent
palaces, mosques and pavilions of this place attract tourists
from all over the world. The entrance to the Jami Masjid
(Bulund Darwaza) here is the tallest in India. It is 40 m. tall.

83
 Humayun’s tomb, Delhi

The Mughal architecture attained its glory during the

reign of Shah Jahan. Moti Mahal, the palace that he built in
Agra fort, is extremely beautiful. The Taj Mahal at Agra shows
Mughal architecture at its best. This wonderful monument
was built in memory of his queen, Mumtaz Mahal (17th
century). There are tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz in this
mausoleum. It was Shah Jahan who got the famous Red Fort
built at Delhi.

Fort, Agra

84
 Red fort, Delhi

Painting: A new school of painting emerged during the

period of the Mughals. There were more than a hundred artists
in Akbar’s court. The art of painting reached its peak under
the patronage of Jahangir. Aurangzeb, who was orthodox in
outlook, did not encourage painting.

Music: Music received special

patronage during Akbar's reign. The
large number of musicians in his
court were divided into seven groups.
Each day a particular group gave a
music recital. Tansen was the most
remarkable musician of Akbar’s
court. Jahangir and Shah Jahan also
extended patronage to music. But
Tansen Aurangzeb banned music. However,
music lingered in the hearts of people.

85
The Decline of the Mughal Empire
The empire began to decline towards the end of Aurangzeb’s
reign. The reasons for the decline are:
• The chieftains became corrupt.
• Intense fighting took place among the claimants to
the throne.
• The provincial governors took advantage of the
situation and declared their independence.
• Aurangzeb’s desire to convert India into an Islamic
state met with opposition everywhere.
• The prolonged warfare with the Sikhs, the Rajputs
and the Marathas fully exhausted the resources of
the empire.
• In the meanwhile, Nadir Shah, a Persian invader,
raided Delhi. He looted the wealth amassed by the
Mughals over a period of two centuries. He carried
away the world-famous Kohinoor diamond and the
Peacock throne of Shah Jahan. The treasury of the
Mughals became empty.
Chronology
Babur - 1526–1530 CE
Akbar - 1556–1605 CE
Aurangzeb - 1659–1707 CE
New words
jiziya - the tax that the Muslim kings levied on every Hindu.

86
 EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks
1. ______________Rajput king was defeated by Akbar in
the Haldighat war
2. _____________was Akbar’s minister who framed land
tax system
3. ____________ Mughal king encouraged artwork
4. ____________Mughal king opposed music
II. Answer in one sentence
1. Who was the founder of Mughal dynasty?
2. Name the Mewad Rana who opposed Akbar.
3. Where is Taj Mahal? Who constructed it?
4. Name the important historians from Mughal dynasty
III. Discuss in groups and answer
1. Write a note on Ibadat Khan.
2. Introduce Akbar’s religious policy.
3. Make a list of architectural constructions from
Mughal period
4. What are the causes for the decline of Mughal
dynasty?
IV. Match the following
A B
Tulsidas Mayura Simhasana
Abul Fazal Headtax
Shahjahan Ramacharitha Manas
Jiziya Fatehpur sikri
Akbar Akbarnama

87
V. Activities
1. Collect pictures of Mughal architecture and describe
them.
2. Mark historical places from Mughal period on a map.
3. Discuss the contrasts in Akbar’s and Aurangzeb’s
religious policies

  

88
LESSON
8 MARATHAS
Introduction

In this lesson, the childhood of Shivaji, his ideals, the way he

resisted Mughal and Vijayapur army, establishment of Maratha
kingdom and his administrative measures are explained.

Competencies

1] To understand the life, adventures and achievements of

Shivaji.
2] To recognize on the map the historic places associated with
Shivaji.

Marathas were the ones who revolted against the Mughals

in the Deccan region, when Mughals were at their height of
power in North India. Shivaji was the founder of Maratha
dynasty.
Shivaji
Shivaji was born in Shivaneri Durga
near Pune. His father was Shahaji
Bhonsle. He held a high post in the office
of the Sultan of Vijayapur. Shivaji was
brought up under the care of his mother
Jijabai. His tutor Dadaji Kondadeva and
Tanaji Malasure taught him the lessons
of warfare. In the beginning Shivaji
assembled the Maratha leaders and
Shivaji Mavalas, the trible people of Western
Ghats and built a strong brigade.

89
Footsteps of Shivaji:
At the age of 19, Shivaji captured Torana Durga, which was
under the control of Adilshah of Vijayapura. After this, he won
Rayagadha, Simhagada, and Pratapagada one by one. Enraged
by this the Sultan of Vijayapura sent his general Afzal Khan to
supress Shivaji. Afzal Khan wanted to kill Shivaji decietfully so
he invited Shivaji under the pretext of reconciliation. Expecting
this, Shivaji killed Afzal Khan with ‘Vyaghra Nakha’ (Tiger’s
claw), a weapon that he had hid with him.
On learning these advancements of Shivaji, Aurangazeb
sent his general of Deccan province Shahista Khan to curb him
down. But clever Shivaji was able to defeat Shahista Khan.

Shahista Khan had stayed at the Palace of Pune to attack

Shivaji. He could not get hold of Shivaji even waiting for
two long years. One night Shivaji, in disguise, along with
his soldiers entered the living qarters of Shahista Khan and
attacked him. Khan some how escaped the attack but lost
his thumb. In panic Shahista Khan fled away from Pune.

This maddened Aurarangazeb so he sent a huge army

under the leadership of Raja Jayasimha. Jayashimha
defeated Shivaji and captured few Maratha forts. At the end
Jayasimha invited Shivaji to Delhi to come to have treaty with
Aurangazeb. Aurangazeb arrested Shivaji on his arrival to
Delhi, and kept him in the prison of Agra. But Shivaji played
a trick and escaped from jail and reached his capital.
After that, he won all the forts that he had lost to the
Mughals. He attacked Surat and ransacked heavy wealth from
there.

90
 Fort of Shivaji, Rayagada

Coronation of Shivaji:
In Rayagada Shivaji was conferred with the title ‘Chatrapati’
and was crowned king of Marathas in a lavish ceremony. Soon
after coronation Shivaji won Jinji, Velluru and large area of
Mysuru province and received a heavy tribute. But Shivaji
could not live long to witness the grandeur of the Marathas.
Administration of Shivaji:
There were eight ministers called ‘Ashta Pradhanas’ to
assist him in administrative matters. The prime minister
was called as ‘Peshva’. After the death of Shivaji, a political
crisis arose but it was succesfuly solved by the Peshwas
and smoothened the administration. From here onwards,
the administration of Martha Provinces was done by the
Peshvas. Balaji Vishwanath, Bajirao I and Balaji Bajirao are
the important peshvas who ruled Maratha kingdom.

91
New words:
Guerilla warfare : a surprise attack of hit and run
tactic by a group of soldiers
Chatrapati : Emperor

EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable answers:
1. ________ was the techer of Shivaji.
2. Shivaji killed Afzal Khan with _____________.
3. _________ was the commander of Aurangazeb, who
defeated Shivaji.
II. Answer the following in a sentence:
1. Where was Shivaji born?
2. Who were the parents of Shivaji?
3. Why did the Sultan of Vijayapur oppose Shivaji?
4. Who was Shahista Khan?
5. Where did the coronation ceremony of Shivaji take
place? What was the title conferred on him?
6. Name the important Peshwas who ruled Maratha
kingdom.
Activities:
Recognise in the map, the historical places related to
Shivaji.

  

92
 LESSON ADVENT OF THE EUROPEANS TO
9 INDIA
Introduction

On 17th May, 1498 Vasco-da-Gama reached Calicut in thus,

discovering a new sea route to India. This enabled the Europeans to
come to India. This sea route helped the Portuguese, Dutch, French
and British to arrive in India for trade.

Competencies

1] Understand early activities of the Europeans in India.

2] Understand the conflict that emerged between Europeans
and Indians.
3] Get acquainted with the European companies that came to
India.
4] Understand the reasons that enabled the British to
settledown in India.
5] To locate European trade settlements on the map of India.

The Portuguese (1498-1961 CE)

On 17th May, 1498 Vasco da Gama reached Calicut
in Kerala, thereby discovering a new sea route to India.
Through this sea route, the Portuguese were the first among
Europeans to reach India. They gained trade monopoly with
eastern countries. Building colonial empire, propagation of
Christianity were there main aims.
Causes for Portuguese Rise
amorin, the King of Calicut granted trade permission,
Z
to voyager Vasco da Gama.

93
 I n 1509 CE, Albuquerque was appointed as Governor
(Viceroy) of India. In 1510 he captured Goa from
Sultan of Vijayapura (Vijayapur). Until Portuguese left
India, Goa remained as the capital of the Portuguese.
uccessive Governors after Albuquerque established
S
colonies at Diu, Daman, Salsetle, Bassein, Chawl,
Bombay (mumbai) Santhome and Hugli in Bengal
and other places.
Causes for the decline of the Portuguese
ossession of strong navy by the Dutch and the English
P
posed as a formidable challenge to the Portuguese.
ortuguese Government officials became highly
P
corrupt, loosing their loyalty. Later reduced their
government a pathetic condition.
eligious fanaticism was the reason for their decline.
R
They attempted to convert the locals forcefully.
ith the decline of Vijayanagar Empire, their trade
W
declined.

Francisco -de- Almeida was the first Portuguese Viceroy

(Governor) in India. They were the first among the Europeans
to enter India and the Portuguese happened to be the last
among the Europeans to leave India. Goa, Diu and Daman
alone remained as Portuguese possession. Even though
British rule ended in 1947 yet, Portuguese did not leave
our land. For liberation of Goa, the native Indians resorted
to non-violent protest. But the protesters were subjected to
inhuman treatment. Ultimately, in 1961 the Indian Navy
chased away the Portuguese and liberated Goa.

94
The Dutch (1596-1792 CE)
After the Portuguese, Dutch from the Netherlands
arrived in India . In 1602 CE “Dutch East India Company’
was established. This company obtained monopoly to trade
with countries in the East. It also came equipped with the
manadate to wage battles or enter peace treaties with the local
rulers. ‘Pulicat’ became the capital of the Dutch.
Dutch Trading Centres
Agra, Machalipatnam, Surat, Karaikal, Nagapatnam,
Cochin and such other places were Dutch trading centres in
India.
Decline of the Dutch
Dutch clashed with the English. But, the English
defeated the Dutch. Unable to face the English competition
the Dutch turned their attention towards the islands of Sourth
East Asia.

Islands of South East Asia: Indonesia, Malaya, Thailand,

Philippines, Cambodia.

The English (1600-1947 CE)

In the beginning, English followed ‘Peaceful Trade’ as their
policy. But, they took advantage of the deteriorated political
situation of India to establish their political supremacy.
The Merchants of England who aspired to have trade
with the East Countries, founded ‘The East India Company’
in 1600 CE. They established trade links with India with the
permission of Queen Elizabeth.

95
 In the beginning East India Company ships were anchored
at Surat ports. Sir Thamus Roe visited the court of the mughal
emperor Jahangir in 1615 CE and obtained permission to
trade in Surat. Later trade centers were established at Agra,
Ahamadabad and Broch. After this, they established trade
centres at Culcutta, Madras and Bombay. Culcutta was their
first capital.

Gradually, the profit of the East India Company increased

notably. They obtained permission (Dastakath) to trade
without any tax in the Bengal Province (the present Bengal,
Bihar and Odisha) and in Agra from the Mughal Emperor
Farroq Siyara. These measures enabled the British to gain
more strength.

The licenses issued to the British traders to conduct tax-

free trade, were known as ‘Dastak’.

In order to improve their strength, the British built

forts around their residential areas and trade centres. They
employed soldiers to portect their establishments and also
stocked arms and ammunitions. In a very short time, the
English had a strong army.
French (1664-1954 C.E)
French were the last among Europeans to reach India
for trade. They established “French East India Company” in
1664CE. In India, the French opened their first ware house
at Surat in 1668 C.E. Within a short time they established
their trade centers in different parts of India.

96
 French Trade Centres: They opened their trade centers
at Pondichery, Maslipatnam, Calicut, Maha, Karaikal and
Chandranagar. Pondicherry was the capital of the French.
Dupleix, the governor of the French, increased the
influence of French in Hyderabad and Carnatic regions (East
of Tamil Nadu) with his clever diplomacy. Many battles took
place between the French and British and they are called as
Carnatic Wars.
Causes for the French decline:
rench army commanders in India were not given
F
complete support by the Government of France.
olitical confusion and revolutions took place in
P
France. This led to their decline in India.
French Navy was not superior to the English Navy.

Chronology (CE)
British East India Company : 1600 CE
Dutch East India Company : 1602 CE
French East India Company : 1664 CE

97
98
 EXERCISES
I. Answer the following questions in a sentence.
1. Who were the first Europeans to reach India for trade?
2. Who discovered the sea route to India?
3. Name the Capital of the Dutch?
4. When was the British East India Company established?
5. Name the trade centers of the French.
6. Who was the Mughal emperor who granted ‘Dastak’
to the British?
II. Discuss in groups and answer the following.
1. List out the causes responsible for the decline of the
Portuguese in India.
2. What were the causes that led to the decline of the
French?
III. Match the items from list ‘A’ with the information
given in the list ‘B’.
A B
Portuguese Pondicherry

Dutch Calcutta

French Pulicat

English Goa
Activity:
Draw the map of India and locate the early European
settlements.
  

99
 LESSON RISE OF BRITISH POLITICAL
10 SUPREMACY IN INDIA
Introduction

The capacity of the British and French soldiers and political

ambitions along with the internal rivalries among the local rulers
led to many battles. The British waged many battles in India. By
employing deceit and cleverness, the British could establish their
power in Carnatic and Bengal by 1857 CE.
Competencies
1] To understand the factors responsible for the rise of British
Political supremacy in India.
2] To learn about the results of Plassey and Buxar battle.
3] To know about the causes and results of Carnatic wars.
4] To understand the meaning and clauses of Subsidiary
alliance.
5] To understand the policy of the Doctrine of Lapse.

Battle of Plassy (1757 CE)

Bengal was the prosperous province
of the Mughal Empire. Its provincial
governer Aliwardhi Khan, became
independent when the Mughal empire
started to decline. After him, Siraj-ud-
Daula became the Nawab of Bengal.
As Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula was still in
his youth, the British neglected him and
strengthened their Fort William without
his permission. They also misused the Siraj-ud-Daula
trade exemptions given to them.

100
Causes for the Battle of Plassy
Siraj-ud-Daula felt that the English were disobeying his
orders and supporting his enemies. Irked by this, he captured
English warehouses. This became the reason for the battle
of plassy.
On hearing the news of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula's attack,
the officials of Madras Company sent an army under the
commandership of Robert Clive to Calcutta. Clive who had
the knowledge of Bengal’s situation, entered into a secret pact
with the Military Commander of Siraj, Mir Jaffer, by offering
the post of Nawab.

The Commander of the Nawab army Mir Jaffer entered

into a secret pact with the British in his desire to become
the Nawab. He was expected to give 175 lakh rupees to the
British when he became the Nawab. This shady deal was
brokered by a merchant Ameenchand.

Robert clive Mir Jaffer

The British and Siraj-ud-Daula’s armies clashed at Plassey

on Jue 23rd, 1757 CE. Mir Jaffer supported the British in the
war. Finally, Siraj-ud-Daula was defeated in the war. Due to

101
the treachery of Mir Jafar, the British won the war. With this
the British Colonialism was established.
Results
In the history of modern India, Plassy battle is one of the
decisive battle. Defeat of Siraj-ud-Daula enabled the English
to play a major role in Bengal politics.
ecause of the British favour, Mir Jaffer became the
B
Nawab of Bengal. But he became a puppet in the
hands of the British.
ritish East India company earned huge money and
B
obtained control of Zamindari system in a district
called 24 Paragana.
lassey battle later became the cause for battle of
P
Buxar.
nglish who came as traders obtained the power to
E
administer.
ictory in Plassey led to the establishment of the
V
British Empire in India.
Battle of Buxar (1764 CE)
Mir Jaffer failed to fulfill the endless demands of the
British. So they dethroned Mir Jaffer and brought in his
nephew Mir Qasim to power.
Causes: Mir Qasim was independent in his out look. After
verifying the misuse of Dastakaths, he made all trade in Bengal
tax free. This made the British to face the competition from the
Indian Merchants. So they dethroned Mir Qasim and brought
back Mir Jaffer to the throne.
Undettered by this move, Mir Qasim gained friendship
of the Nawab of Avadh Shuja-ud-Daual and Sha Alam II of
the Mughal Kingdom. With their help he declared war against

102
the British in 1764 CE. And this war is the Buxar war. In this
battle, Hectar Muro of the British defeated the combined forces
of Mir Qasim. The Nawab of Avadh took refuge in Rohilakhand
and Sha Alam took the side of the British. Mir Qasim had to
run away from the battle field.
The Results:
Mir Jaffer again became the Nawaba of Bengal.
attle of Buxar stabilised the British East India
B
Company.
his war led to the expansion of British influence
T
from Bengal to Allahabad.
hey obtained Diwani right (collection of taxes) from
T
Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, in Bengal province.
I n 1765 CE after the death of Mir Jaffer, Nizam-ud-
Daula became the Nawab of Bengal.
Carnatic wars (1746-1763 CE)
Carnatic was one of the regions of Mughal Empire. The
Coromandal area (the coastal region of the present Tamil
Nadu and Andhrapradesh) and its hinterland were called as
Carnatic by the British.
The competition between the British and the French to
have trade monopoly over the South India led to the Caranatic
wars. Three major battles took place in Carnatic. Hence, these
wars are called as Carnatic wars.
First Carnatic war (1746-1748 CE)
Reasons:
he competition and jealousy between the British and
T
the French over trade, and the political ambitions.

103
 he war between the British and the French in Europe
T
over the issue of succession in Austria in Europe led
to wars in India too.
Arcot was the capital of Carnatic Province. After the
victory over South Eastern Cost, the English were making
attempts to capture Pondicherry from the French. In retaliation,
Dupleix, the French Governor captured Madras. The English
approached Nawab of Arcot Anwaruddin for help. Nawab sent
his army to recapture Madras. But the Nawab's Army met with
a defeat. Mean while in Europe the war between the English
and the French ended and a peace treaty was signed. This
treaty was applicable to the British and the French in India
too.

French achieved upper land in the First Carnatic war.

This ended with the treaty of Yekes-la-Chaple.

Results
English captured Madras.
rench strengthened their position in Arcot. This
F
enhanced the prestige of Dupleix.
Prisoners of war on both the sides were released.
Second Carnatic war (1749-1754 CE)
Causes
In Arcot and Hyderabad, the problem of succession
arose. This was the main cause for the war.
The competition for the power arose between
Chandasahib and Anwaruddin in Arcot, and between
Nasir Jung and Musafar Jung in Hyderabad.

104
 Through secret negotiation, Dupleix created a
confederation of chandasahib and Muzaffar Jung.
They defeated and killed Anwaruddin. His son
Mohammad Ali escaped to Tiruchanapalli.
Chandasahib in Arcot, Muzaffer Jung in Hyderabad
became Nawabs with the French support. After sometime
Muzaffer Jung was killed. The French brought Salabat Jung in
his place. Manewhile, the English were annoyed on account of
this, they captured Arcot and killed Chandasahib. Mohammed
Ali was made as Nawab of Arcot. After this war Dupleix was
recalled by the Government of France. This war ended with
Pondicherry treaty of 1754 CE.
Result:
he power and influence of the French was reduced
T
in Arcot.
nglish procured the right to collect taxes and
E
maintain army units.
By the end of second Carnatic war, English at Arcot and
French at Hyderabad safeguarded their might.
Third Carnatic War (1758-1763 CE)
Causes
In Europe war of seven years started between the British
and the French in 1756 CE. This resulted in war between the
French and the British in India in the form of Third Carnatic
War.
The forces of British under the command of Eyre Coote
and the French forces under the command of Comte de Lally
faced each other at Wandiwash near Pondichery. The French
lost the battle and surrenderd to the British. Meanwhile, the

105
Seven Years War in Europe came to an end and the Paris
Treaty was signed. With this, the Third Carnatic War also
came to an end.
Results
he political and military might of the French ended
T
in India.
he British emerged as the most powerful force among
T
all the Europeans in India.
Subsidiary Alliance (1798 CE)
English Governor General Lord
Wellesley introduced Subsidiary Alliance
in 1798 C.E. This is an important
legislation that led the expansion of
British Empire in India and control
over the politics in India. Lord Wellesley
encouraged the Kings to avail military aid
from the British to stay safe from their
enemies. In some cases, the Kings were
coerced to take the support. Lord Wellesley

Conditions (Clauses)
ulers who accepted this policy had to maintain
R
English army contingent in their kingdom.
ar expenses should be paid in monetary form to the
W
British.
he King had to have a British resident in the court
T
and the expenses borne by the ruler himself.

106
Results of Subsidiary Alliance:
uge burden of military expenses made Indian status
H
economically weak.
British took control of vast land.
tates which came under this policy lost their
S
Sovereignty.

The states that came under the treaty of subsidiary

Alliance: Hyderabad, Mysuru, Travencore, Baroda, Jaipur,
Jodhpur, Bharathpur, Nagpur, Gwalior, Oudh, Tanjore,
Surat and others.

Policy of Doctrine of Lapse (1848)
British Governor General Lord
Dalhousie introduced the polciy of
“Doctrine of Lapse” declared that if any
Indian ruler had an adopted son, the
son would have no right to ascend the
throne.
The Princely state whose ruler
died without male heir was annexed
by the British. This law was against
the tradition of adoption that was in Lord Dalhousie
practice in India since ancient times.
Results
n account of this treacherous policy, Oudh, Satara,
O
Nagpur and Jhansi directly came under the British.
y the time Lord Dolhousie returned to England, 2/3
B
of India was under the rule of the British.

107
Chronology (C.E)

Battle of Plassey : 1757 CE

Battle of Buxar : 1764 CE

Carnatic wars : 1746 to 1763 CE

Subsidiary Alliance : 1798 CE

Doctrine of Lapse : 1848 CE

EXERCISES

I. Fill up the blanks with appropriate words.

1. ______________ became the Nawab of Bengal after the

battle of Plassey.

2. ______________ the Mughal Emperor took part in the

battle of Buxar.

3. The Second Carnatic War ended with the treaty of

______________.

4. The battle of Wandiwash took place in ______________.

II. Answer the following in the sentence:

1. Between whom did the battle of Buxar take place?

2. Who emerged victorious after the end of carnatic

wars?

3. Who introduced Subsidiary Alliance?

4. Who introduced the policy of Doctrine of Lapse?

108
III. Answer the questions given below after group
discussion.

1. What were the results of Battle of Buxar?

2. What were the causes for Battle of Plassey?

3. Describe the results of Subsidiary Alliance.

4. Name the Indian states that came under the policy of

Doctrine of Lapse.

  

109
LESSON
11 IMPACT OF THE BRITISH RULE

Introduction

British East India Company during 1600 to 1757, was just a

trading Company. British came in with trading interest and gradually
developed political interest. In the beginning they appealed to various
political powers to safeguard their aspirations and increased their
trade. They gradually replaced appealing with policy of Conquest and
hence became politically strong. After having conquered India, they
tried to take it under their possession by forming strategies to achieve
their distant dreams. They made use of administrative reforms as an
instrument. Various legislations were passed in the field of politics,
economic system and social order and termed it as the reforms meant
for the betterment of Indians. But, behind all these their self interest
was of paramount importance. Initially, Indians belived accordingly. It
is only incidental that their enactment of legislations had any positive
impact on the Indians as their aim main was safe guarding their own
interests first. In this chapter, analysis of the reforms related to four
fields has been made : Revenue, English Education, Economic impact
and Constitutional development.

Competencies

1] Indetifying the merits and demerits of the implementation

of Permanent Zamindari system, Mahalwari system and
Roytwari system.
2] Collecting information about the English Education System
that was introduced in India.
3] Enlisting economic influecnes.
4] To understand Constitutional development.

110
1. Land Revenue Policy :
The British implemented reformation in land tax system to
ensure the flow of regular income to the East India Company’s
treasury. Apart form this, the British needed huge amount
of money to fund their war expenses and salary expenses of
their staff. Particularly the British officers were drawing huge
salaries. Hence, the East India Company started collecting
higher land tax from the farmers.
The Governor General Warren Hastings introduced bidding
system to authorize tax collecting works during his period.
Though the Zamindars were competing to bid for higher rates,
they used to fail to collect tax accordingly. This resulted in
variations in the tax remittance. In order to ensure steady tax
collection, the British enacted other tax collection systems.
Permanent Land Revenue System (1793 CE) :
The Governor General Cornwallis
decided to fix the land tax on a
permanent basis in Bengal, Bihar and
Odissa. The agreement he entered with
the zamindars for tax collection is called
Permanent Land Revenue System.
Under this system, the Zamindars
worked as government agents. With
this, the company now had access to a
permanent income from the agriculture sector. It also brought
down the expenses on the revenue collection. Often, stronger
Zamindars paid the fixed taxes to the company irrespective of
the agricultural production. The British created classes like
this which could work for them and support them often.

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The Impact on the Peasants :
The Zamindars exploited the farmers by collecting exess
land tax. They never gave attention to improve the agricultural
output. The tenant farmers were forced to pay their share
even though crops had failed. As a result, the agricultural out
put collapased. Apart from this, the company made farmers
further poor by forcing them to grow commercial crops that
were need for their factories. All this resulted in growth of
bonded labour.
2. Roytwari System (1820 CE) :
The system where the farmers could directly remit the
land tax to treasury without any intermediaries is Roytwari
System. The direct relationship between the government and
the farmer is the important feature of Roytwari system. This
system was brought into effect in the South and West India.
In its impact, it was not much different from the Permanent
Zamindari System.
Under this method, the measurement, fertility and
irrigation facility of the land was taken into consideration and
land tax was fixed. Half of the out put was fixed as the land
tax. The volume of tax fixed periodically. Even though the
farmer lost his crop due to floods or drought the tax payment
was manadatory. This system was brought into effect by Sir
Thomas Munroe in Madras region in 1820 CE.
3. Mahalwari System : (1833 CE) :
Mahal means village or estate. The land tax was fixed for
the entire Mahal. The local Zamindar was responsible for the
tax collection of all the farmers in that Mahal. This system was
implemented in Uttar Pradesh and parts of Madhyapradesh
and Punjab in 1833 CE.

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Total impact of the land revenue system.
British Converted land into a marketable commodity.
Instances of land auction and sales increased.
s land tax was to be paid in cash form, the money
A
gained prominence.
o increase the income, Zamindars insisted on
T
cultivating crops like cotton, jute, peanut, tobacco,
sugar cane, and other commercial crops instead of
food crops. It was profitable for the British as the
commercial crops could get exported. But, this
resulted in food shortage.
ithin the Zamindari system, new classes of farmers
W
arised.
English Education:
Education is an instrument that ensures individual
freedom. With the help of knowledge that gained through
education would lead to better life. The universalization of
English education profited the Indians. All classes of the
society could have access to Education.
Under the Charter Act, one lakh rupees was kept aside
for the education of Indians. But, the government had not
spent anything from it till 1823. The Indian thinkers and
the Christain missionaries launched in favour of modern
education to Indians. At the same time, the Company also
had different idea. It needed English educated Indians to work
at the lower cadre of its offices for less salary. So it aimed
at creating an educated class that was dedicated to it. Lord
Macaulay and Charles Wood implemented the new education
system with this aim.

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 Lord Macaulay Charles Wood

Dispute over Medium of Instruction :

Many of the English academecians argued that the
Indians should be educated in their mother tongue. Some
others argued that the modern Science and literature should
be given through English medium. In 1853, the Governor
General William Bentinck finally announced the education
policy which opted for instruction of Western Science and
English Medium of instruction.

Some of the western academicians had introduced the

Indian Cultural Wealth to the Western world. Sir William
Jones who was in India as the Judge of Supreme Court had
founded ‘Asiatic Society of Bengal’ in 1784 CE. He propogated
the greatness of Sanskrit language to the world. Sir Charles
Wilks translated Bagvadhgeetha into English in 1785 CE.
Max Muller translated Rigveda and other writings.
Bentinck’s declaration was based on the minute prepared
by Macaulay who was the member of the executive body.
Macaulay was a hardcore pro English thinker.

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He argued that Indian knowledge is of low level. He also
made fun of the Sanskrit grammar. He wanted to take
away the Indians from their roots. He had declared “all the
books written in the Sanskrit language is less valuable than
what may be found in the most paltry abridgement used
at preparatory schools in England”. These words clearly
demonstrate his prejudice.

The British formulated New Education System in 1854.

This was based on the report by Charles Wood. In a very short
period, universities were established at Bombay, Culcutta and
Madras (1857). The establishment of primary schools, high
schools and colleges were done stage by stage. Education
departments were formed in regions to monitor and supervise
education. English became the official administrative language
by 1844 CE

Bombay university of Bombay

115
 Madras University
Impact of western Education :
The traditional system slowly declined. The new education
system enabled Indians from different languages to interact
among themselves. This gave impetus to the growth of national
feelings. The European intellectual thoughts affected the Indian
thinkings in a long term prespective. It also influenced the
Indian literature and resulted in various literary movements.
Many sections of the society received social awakening.
Economic Impact:
The industrial revolution that took place in Europe during
18th and 19th century impacted seriously on the trade and
commerce of India. The East India Company was only a trade
company till 1757 CE. After this, it used the political power
to establish monopoly over the Indian production and trade
completely. As a result, the weavers had to purchase raw
materials at higher rates. The British Commerce Policy was

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aimed at facilitating the growth of industries of England only.
They wanted India to be a net importer of factory made goods
of England and a net exporter of raw material to England. By
introducing free trade, it forced the Indian cottage industries
towards extinction.
As the wealth of India flowed
towards England, India became a
poor country. According to Dadabhai
Navoroji, “Wealth Drain resulted in
poverty”. The British citizens invested
money in India and made profit out
of it. This was again the main reason
for this.
As a result of drain in the wealth,
there was shortage of investment in
India too. This hampered the progress Dadabhai Navroji
of Indian industries. Adam Smith,
the father of Economics, has described the British in India
as ‘Plunderers’.
Constitutional Development :
Regulating Act ( 1773 CE)
The Constitutional Reforms in India
started during the British rule. The
Regulating Act of 1773, is an important
milestone in the history of Constitution.
The Governor General Warren Hastings
implemented this act in 1773. This act
became the base of British Administration
in India. This also gave a constitution to
the East India Company.
Warren Hastings

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Pitt’s India Act (1784 CE)
The Government of England was not happy with
administrative system of India. It decided to concentrate on
this issue. Hence, the Prime Minister William Pitt brought in
an Act. It included the East India Company as a part of the
government and a considered it as a unit. Many acts followed
this act in subsequent years.
Morley – Minto Reforms ( 1909 CE)
Lord Minto was the Viceroy of India. During this period,
Lord Morley was also the Secretary of the State. Due to
authoritative rule of Lord Curzon and violent protests from
Indian Revolutionaries, the Minto-Morley reforms were
introduced. According to this act, eligible Indians could be
made part of the government programmes. The number at
central legislative assembly increased. Similarly, the regional
assemblies were also expanded.
The Morley-Minto reforms did not bring in any drastic
changes in the constitutional process of India. It did not give
any responsibility to representatives.
Montagu –Chelmsford Reforms (1919 CE)
Morley-Minto reforms did not satisfy the Indians. The
Secretary of State, Montagu declared that “the British
government wants to provide more representations to Indians
in administration”. Lord Minto, who was the Viceroy of India
during that time brought these acts into effect. The total
members at The India Council of Secretary of State was
increased and the tenure of membership was fixed at five
years. An Indian High Commissioner was posted in London.

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1935 Act :
Morley Minto reforms did not satisfy the Indians. To
pacify the Indians, the Government of India Act 1935 was
implemented. According to it, a federal of India was formed
with federation of states and princely states. Diarchy was
introduced at Central Government. Responsible governments
were established at the regions. This act is considered as a
major milestone in Indian history.

EXERCISES
I Answer the following in a sentence each.

1. Who introduced the ‘Permanent Zamindari System’?

2. What is ‘Roytwari system’?

3. How much fund was reserved for Education in India

as per Charter Act of 1813?

4. Who implemented the Regulating Act? And when?

5. Name the universities that were established in India

in 1857.

II Discuss in group and answer the following.

1. How did Permanent Zamindari System influence the

farmers?

2. Explain the impact of Western Education in India.

3. Mention some of the important Constitutional reforms

in India.

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III Match the following items mentioned in ‘A’ with
information given in ‘B’.
Warren Hasting – Permanent Zamindari System
Cornwallis – English Education
Thomas Munro – Collection of tax by auction.
Willam Bentinck – Wealth drain theory.
Dadabhai Navroji – Roytwari System.
IV Discuss.
1. The Revenue system of the British and the Present
system.

  

120
LESSON SOCIAL AND RELIGIOUS
12 REFORMS
Introduction
The implementation of Western Education System created a wave
of awakening among Indians. It also unraveled the weaknesses of
Indian society and its approaching decay. This made Indians realize
the drawbacks of their society and also motivated them to seek
solutions to it. This lesson introduces the efforts of Indian religious
leaders of 19th century who attempted to reform Indian society by
establishing various associations and socities.
Competencies
1] Understanding the various aspects that led to new awakening
in the Indian society and the efforts by various thinkers in
this direction.
2] Remembering the contributions of social organizations and
reformers in bringing social awareness
3] Understanding the influences of social reformation
movement.

Due to influence of Western Thoughts, there was a new

awakening in India. The Western Culture, Dress, Behaviour,
Society, Religious thoughts, Beliefs and Social Ideals of
the English influenced the Indians enormously. The Cause
and Effect theory, Humanism and Rationality of the west
influenced the Indians much. These developments led to the
emergence of Romanticism in India. The quest for Equality
is Romanticism Movement. This is also called as Social and
Religious Reform Movement. This movement laid emphasis
on empowerment of women and dalit sections of the society.
The British started enforcing colonialism through Englsih
education by telling that it is for the betterment of Indians.
Our country has a rich tradition. But all aspects of this vast

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tradition are not worth following. There are many superstitions
which need weeding out.
Raja Rammohan Roy (Brahmasamaja- C.E. 1828)
Rajarammohan Roy was the first
man to create social awareness in
modern time. Rabindranath Tagore has
called him the ‘Father of Modernism’.
In order to inject strength to passive
India, Raja Rammohan Roy started
‘Athmiya Sabha’. Later, in 1828, he
started Brahma Sabha. In the next year
it was named as ‘Brahma Samaj’. Raja
Rammohan Roy is a representative of
the communion of the western and Raja Rammohan Roy
eastern thoughts. The Brahma Samaj opposed child marriage,
Sati System, Caste System, Idol Worship, Polygamy and many
other superstitions vehemently. Raja Rammohan Roy and his
associates petitioned the British Government to eradicate Sati
System.
As a result, Willaim Benticks
abolished Sati System in 1829
CE. Raja Rammohan Roy had
believed that through western
education, such social evils could
be eradicated. He was in favour of
Widow Remarriage and worshiping
‘One Supreme God’. He published
‘Samvada Koumudi’ magazine and
Bad conditions of widows continued his reformist movement.
He attempted to cleanise the Hindu
Society through rationality.

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 Raj Rammohan Roy was the first to support English
Education in India. He ran an English School by spending
from his pocket. He also started a Vedanta College. He is one of
pioneer of journalism in India. He published many periodicals.
He spent his entire life fighting against the social evils. His
works were later continued by Devendranatha Tagore and
Keshava Chandra Sen.

Let us know- Mughal Badshah gave the title ‘Raja’ to

Rammohan Roy in 1829.

Athmarama Panduranga (Prarthana Samaja 1867 CE)

Prarthana Samaja was established
by Athmaram Panduranga. It is a major
reformation society to start in Bombay after
Brahma Samaj. Balwagle, N.G.Chandrawkar
and M.G.Ranade were its important leaders.
They concentrated on issues of widow
remarriage, intercaste marriage and improving
M.G. Ranade
the status of women and development of
exploited classes. They established homes for orphans and
destitutes. They also opened schools for widow emancipation.
Mahatma Jyothiba Pule (Sathyashodhaka Samaja 1873
CE)
Non Brahmin Movement was started
in Maharastra by Mahatma Jyothiba Pule.
He established Satyshodak Samaj to create
awareness among downtrodden classes of
Maharastra. He opened schools for orphans,
destitute and widows. He published a book titled
‘Gulamgiri’ (Slavery) in order to criticize the
Mahatma
Bhraminical supremacy and initiate a dialogue Jyothiba Pule

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on it. He opened a school for girls with his wife Savithribai
Pule. By opening a rehabilitation home for Child widows, he
tried to prevent infanticide cases. He also encouraged widow
remarriage. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had considered him as his
philosophical guide.
“Young Bengali Movement” :
The work of Raja Rammahon Roy for the reformation of
Indian society motivated many youth of Bengal. This initiated
the ‘Tarun Bengal Movement’. An Anglo-Indian youth named
Henry Vivian led this movement. He gave a call to the youth
to have individuality and rationality. Then Indian society did
not respond much to this call.
Swamy Dayananda Saraswathi (Arya Samaja 1875 CE)
Swami Dayananda Saraswathi
established Arya Samaj. His first name was
Moolashankara. He aimed at establishing
an ideal society inspired by the society
during Vedic period. In this background,
Dayananda Sarswathi gave call ‘Go back
to Vedas’. He criticized idol worship,
untouchability and Child Marriage. He
also encouraged intercaste marriages and Swamy Dayananda
widow remarriages. He advocated worship Saraswathi
of ‘One Supreme God’.
Dayananada Saraswathi published his thoughts in
‘Sathyartha Prakash’. Arya Samaj apart from working towards
educating the Indians, also motivated the freedom struggle.
Lala Hansraj, a leader of Arya Samaj, established ‘Dayananada
AngloVedic School’ in Lahore. Nationalist leaders like Tilak,
Lala Lajapath Rai and others were deeply influenced by the
philosophy and thinkings of Arya Samaj. In order to bring back

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the converted people back into Hindu Dharma, Shradananda,
a disciple of Dayananada started ‘Shuddi Movement’.
Dayananda Sarswathi opposed authority to Brahimins
based on their birth. He had declared that all, including
women, have the right to learn Veda. He advocated the worship
of Cow. He wanted to motivate Swadeshi awareness in Indians.

Centers of Social and

Religious Movements

Lahore
Arya Samaj
Pakistan
Ne
pa
Aligarh l
Bhutan
Aligarh movement

Bangladesh
India
Brahma samaj
Ramakrishna
mission
Kolkatta
Mumbai Prarthana samaj

Pune Satyashodhak samaj

Arabian sea
Bay of Bengal

Theosophical
society Chennai Adyar

Indian ocean

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Swamy Vivekananda :
‘Arise, awake, stop not till you reach the goal’ was the message
given to Indian youth by Vivekananda. Narendranatha Datha
was his first name. He was born in Calcutta in 1863 January
12. He was the disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He later
took Sanyasa. After the death of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
he had the responsibility of guiding his disciples. His talk at
First World Religious Convention, Chicago, in 1893 brought
him fame and recognition. He appreciated many of the
achievements of the west and equality of women.
Vivekananda traversed across India on foot and was deeply
moved by the plight of Indians. “As long as people of India are
in clutches of poverty and hunger, I will take birth again and
again in India to eradicate them”, he declared.

Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Swamy Vivekananda

Pandith Keshavachandra Vidyasagar started a Sanskrit

college for non Brahmins in 1856. Widow re-marriage was
held at Calcutta under the leadership of Vidyasagara..
He established Ramakrishna Mission to continue the
service to humanity. He had a lot concern for women and

126
said “Welfare of Women is the welfare of our Country”. He
gave a call for the service to the poor. He dreamed of Indian
upliftment.
Balagangadhar Tilak has called Swami Vivekananda as
“the father of Indian Nationalism”. Many people including
Subhas Chandra Bose were influenced by his writings.
Before going to Chicago, Swami Vivekananda had visited
Mysuru princely state. Chamaraja Wodeyer X invited him to
his palace and lent financial support for his visit to Chicago.
Mysuru Wodeyer opened three separate schools for Dalits
on Swami Vivekananda’s advise.

Activity: Collect Information about Swami Vivekananda’s

talk at World Religion Conference at Chicago.
Madam H.P. Blavatsky and Colonel H.S. OLCOTT
(Theosophical Society 1875 C.E.)

H.P. Blavatsky Dr. Annie Besant

Theosophical Society was established by H.P. Blavatsky and

Colonel H.S. Olcott in Newyork in 1875 CE. The international
centre of the society was started at Adyar near Madras. Later
Dr Annie Besant became its president. H.P.Blavatsky was

127
a good writer and has expressed her ideas on Humanism,
Human Brotherhood, Philosophy, comparative religion and
Truth of Nature eloquently.
Dr Annie Besant was influenced by the Indian culture
and translated Bagavadhgeetha to English. She published
‘New India’ newpaper. She led the Theosophical Movement
strongly in India.
Objectives of theosophical society:
1. To inculcate universal brotherhood, by eliminating
discrimination.
2. To Study Dharma, philosophy and science through
comparative approach.
3. To investigate the hidden aspects of nature and
hidden power in human beings.
Anni Besant started Central Hindu College in Banaras.
Later it became Banaras Hindu University. She established an
organization ‘torch bearers’ to eradicate Child Marriage and
Superstitions. She later started Home Rule Movement too. She
was the first women president of Indian National Congress.
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (Alighar Movement)
Most of Muslims were suspicious of
the Western Education and also believed
that it is against the interest of their
religion. In 1863 CE, Nawab Abdul Lateef
had started ‘Mohammedan Literary
Society’. He tried to expand English
education among muslims through it.
And also tried bring in harmony among
Hindus and Muslims. Sir Syed Ahmed
Khan provided this attempt a movement Sir Syed Ahmed Khan

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structure. He was born in Delhi in 1817 CE and was a judiciary
officer in the East India Company. He wanted mulsim youth
to have proper employment in the company government by
getting good education. He always believed that the muslim
community is missing an opportunity by missing English
education.
As a social reformer, he opposed Purdha System, Polygamy
and divorce systems. In order to translate English literature
into Urdu, he established ‘Translation Society’. Later, it
became ‘Scientific Society’. In order to promote rationality
among Muslims he began publishing a newspaper ‘Aligrah
Institute Gezzette’. It was published in English and Urdu
languages. He started Muhammedan Anglo Oriental College
in 1875 CE. It became Aligarh Muslim University in 1920.
Sri Narayanaguru:
His influence is considerable in
Karnataka. Sri Narayana Guru is an
important saint and a social reformer.
He was born in a Ezhava family in
Trivancore in 1854. He established ‘Sri
Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam’
in 1903. Through this institution,
he tried for the social, economical,
cultural, educational development of
communities like Ezhava and other
downtrodden communities. He opposed Sri Narayanaguru
caste system and animal sacrifice. He
opened Sanskrit colleges and provided Sanskrit education
irrespective of caste. He built around thirty temples in Kerala
which were open to all including untouchables. He established
a good library in all the temples. He declared ‘One God, One
Religion.

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 Activity: Collect more information about Narayanaguru
and Periyar, who started Self Respect Movement 1920s.

WOMAN SOCIAL REFORMERS :

Madam H.P.Blavatsky, Annie Besant, Savithribai Pule,
Tharabai Shinde, Pandith Ramabai are the main Indian social
women reformers
Savithri Bai Pule :
Savithri Bhai Pule was the most social
and education reformer and a poetess. She
started a school for Girls at Pune along with
her husband Jyothiba Pule and also worked
as a teacher in that school. She tried to
stop infanticide by opening a rehabilitation
centre for child widows. She fought against
the gender discrimination and caste system.
For this, she had to face resistance from the Savithri Bai pule
society.
She shouldered the responsibility of social struggle waged
by her husband Jyothibha Pule. She led ‘Sathya Shodak
Samaj’ after the death of her husband Jyothiba Pule. While
treating the patients of plague along with her son, she died
of it.
Tharabai Shinde :
Tharabai Shinde is the first women
fighter of Maharastra. She was the member
of Sathyashodak Samaj of Jyothiba Pule and
participated actively in the social struggles
of the samaj. She supported protection child
widows and widow remarriages. She has
opposed the exploitation of women in her
Tharabai Shinde
book ‘Stri Purusha Tulana’.

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Pandith Ramabai :
Pandith Ramabai was the famous
Christain Reformer of India. She was
born in Gangamoola of Western Ghats as
the daughter of Ananthashastri Dongri
and Lakshmibai. She received education
which was against the practice. She
accepted Christianity while studying
in England. She dedicated her life for
the betterment of women of India and
established ‘Mukti Mission’ in 1889. Pandith Ramabai
This institution is active till today and
provides rehabilitation to widows, orphans and alcoholic
addicts.

EXERCISES

I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words.

1. ____________ started Samvada Koumudi,
2. ____________ wrote the book Gulamagiri
3. Dayananda AngloVedic College in Lahore was started
by ___________
4. ____________ started Mukti Mission for the upliftment
of women.
II Answer the following in one sentence:
1. Who was called as ‘Father of Indian Modernism’?
2. Who was Mahadeva Govinda Ranade?
3. Who was the founder of Sathyashodhaka Samaja?
4. ‘Awake arise, stop not till you reach the goal’ -who
gave this message?

131
 5. Who was Dr.Annie Besant?
6. Who was the leader for Aligarh Movement?
7. Name the institution started by Sri Narayana Guru?
8. Who was the author of Stree purusha Thulana?
9. Who was a well known Christian social reformer?
III. Discuss in groups and answer the following questions:
1. Write a note on social and religious reformation efforts
of Raja Rammohan Roy.
2. What is the role of Savithribai Pule in social
reformation?
3. What are the objectives of Theosophical society?
4. What is the role of Syed Ahmed Khan in reforming
Muslim community?
5. What were the measures taken by Narayanaguru in
reforming backward communities?
6. What was the role of Ramabai in the reformation of
women?
IV Match the following:
A B
Swamy Vivekananda - Aligarh Movement

Swamy Dayanada Saraswati - Sathyashodhaka Society

Syed Ahmed Khan - Theosophical society

Jyothi Ba Pule - Arya Samaja

Annie Besant - Ramakrishna Samaja

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V. Discuss:
“Upliftment of women is the upliftment of nation”.
Discuss the relevance of this statement.

Activity: Read the biographies of M.G. Ranade, JyothiBa

Pule, Rajarammohan Roy, Swamy Vivekananda, Swamy
Dayananda Saraswathi, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Sri
Narayanaguru.

  

133
LESSON
13 FREEDOM STRUGGLE

Introduction
Indians fought many battles for their freedom. This is an important
milestone in the history of modern India. Portuguese, Dutch, French
and British colonialists established their trade centres in India. They
exploited Indians continuously. Indians raised their voice against the
aggressive policy, injustice, economic exploitation of the colonialists.
They determined to drive away the British from India. Thus they set
themselves for the fight. Different phases of the freedom struggle are
explained here.
Competencies
1] To know about the early protests of Indians against the
British.
2] To understand the reasons that caused India’s first war of
Independence.
3] To commemorate the struggle of the important leaders in
India’s first war of Independence.
4] To understand important reasons that lead to the
development of Nationalism during the 19th century.
5] To understand ideological stances and policies of moderates,
radicals and revolutionaries.
6] To feel the pride in the principles of Non-Violence and
Satyagraha, which Gandhiji implemented against the
British.
7] To appreciate leadership qualities, courage, truthfulness,
simplicity, humanity and humbleness of Gandhiji.

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1. Early Protests against the British:
Indians protested against the British dominance. As
Mir Jaffer failed to fulfill the demands of the British he was
dismissed from the power. His nephew, Mir Qasim, was also
cheated by the British. Anglo-Mysuru wars took place between
1767-1799 CE. The Anglo-Maratha war took place between
1775 and 1818 CE. The British attacked Sikh, Afghan,
Nepal and Burmese and established supremacy over the sub
continent. Such struggles happened in Karntaka also.
In 1800 CE, Dondiwagh revolted against the British. But
Aurther Wellsly arrested Wagh with the help of Marthas
and Nizam and killed him. In 1819 CE, a Zamindar named
Veerappa of Koppala revolted against the Nizam and was
suppressed by the British.
Diwakara Deekshit and Balajai Deshpande of Sindagi in
Raichur revolted against the British and collected the land
taxes on their own and they were arrested and imprisoned
by the British. From 1824 to 1830 CE Rani Chennamma of
Kittur of Belagavi district waged war with the British and died
a warrior’s death. Her committed follower Sangolli Rayanna
also did the same thing.
Revolts happened in Badami, Bidanoor town and Kodagu.
The British could easily contain these revolts and strengthened
their power. All these revolts were armed revolts. Many such
incidents were happened before the First War of Independence.
2. First War of Indian Independence (1857-58)
The year 1857 is an important milestone in the history
of modern India. While the British considered this historical

135
event as a mere ‘Sepoy Mutiny’, Indian nationalists proclaimed
it as the ‘first war of Indian independence’. It was a great war
against the British imperialism. Soldiers and citizens remove
the British imperialism completely from India.
Reasons:
The economic system of India had been weakened by the
long-term rule of the British. People were in utter distress.
Farmers were crushed under the burden of heavy taxes. Cottage
industries got destroyed gradually, various occupations which
were dependent since generations, lost strength and people
became resourceless. Thus they set themselves to fight
against the British. The factors that inspired the people to
fight can be divided into political, economical, social, religious,
administrative and military reasons.
1. Political reasons:
Many kings and Nawabs were brought under the terms
of Lord Wellesley’s ‘Subsidiary Alliance’ and Lord Dalhousie’s
‘Doctrine of Lapse’ policies and were dethroned. Satara,
Jaipur, Sambalpur, Udaipur, Jhansi, Aawad are the states
were victimised under the policy of Doctorine of Lapse. In
addition, pension of some kings was withheld. The titles of
kings were revoked. Naturally, these things disturbed the
feelings of rulers as well as common people of India.
2. Administrative reasons:
A new administrative system was created where the British
officers occupied all the major civil and military posts. The role
of mediators (brokers) was too much in the administration.

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The rule of the law resulted in the collapse of social hierarchy.
The people did not like English which became the language
of administration in the place of Persian.
3. Economic reasons:
British utilized their political power
to loot the economic wealth of India for
their profit. Business interest of the
British destroyed cottage and other
local industries of India. Land revenue
policy was exploitative. The status and
source of income of Talukadars and
Zamindars were snatched away. There
was a huge outward movement of wealth.
Commercialization of agriculture made Bahadhur Shah
the farmers feeble. Terrible draughts of
those days took away the lives of millions of people. These
factors drove India into the pit of poverty.

Traditional Loom

4. Social and Religious reasons:

Social and religious factors led to the explosion of revolt.
British criticised Indians as ‘primitives who have no culture
and civilization.’ They used to call Indians as ‘pig’ and ‘black

137
people’. Indians were not allowed in hotels and clubs that
were under the supervision of the British. At the entrance of
these institutions, there used to be boards declaring “Entry
of dogs and Indians prohibited”. The attempts by the British
to abolish Sati system and child marriage and support of
widow remarriage made the Indians feel that are unnecessarily
interfering in their social life. The arrival of railways irked
the high caste Indians. The issue of all traveling in one bogie
enraged the upper caste Indians.
5. Military reasons:
The Indian soldiers in the British army were unhappy.
They were not allowed to wear their traditional and religious
symbols and headgears. They were paid a meagre salary and
had no promotion options. But the wages were high for the
British officers and were provided good facilities. The Indian
soldiers were assigned to distant places without any additional
pay. As per the Lord Canning’s ‘Common Civil Rules Act’, the
Soldiers were expected to work in distant places as per the
orders. This created created resentment in the Indian soldiers.
6. Immediate reasons:
The time was getting ripe for the people to revolt. A single
spark was needed to raise huge flames. Introduction of a new
gun (Enfield rifle) in the year 1857 in the army became an
immediate reason for the revolt. Before loading the cartridges
it was necessary to rip the paper cover with the teeth. The
rumour was spread all over like a wildfire that the paper
covers were coated either with pig’s fat or cow’s fat. This hurt
the religious sentiments of Hindu and Muslims. Soldiers who
refused to use it were punished.

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Momentum of the revolt:
The revolt began on 10th May,
1857 in Meerut. Afterwards it spread
intensely throughout the provinces
of North India. Before the explosion
of the revolt, MangalPande an Indian
soldier of Barakpur (Bengal), refusing
to use the gun smeared with fat,
openly shot dead a British officer.
Later, he was also killed. Same time
in Meerut, Indian soldiers killed
Europeans at sight. These furious
MangalPande
soldiers rushed to Delhi shouting
‘Maro parangiko’ which meant kill Europeans. In Delhi these
enraged soldiers crowned old and weak Mughal King Bahadur
Shah II as the Emperor of India.

Parangi: Parangi is a word of Persian origin. It is used

in Urdu and Hindi to despise the Europeans.

Within a short time the revolt spread wildly. Important

centres of revolution were Delhi, Lucknow, Bareilly, Jhansi
and Ara of Bihar.
The revolts took place under the
leadership of colonel Bhukth Khan in Delhi,
Nana Saheb and Tantya Tope in Kanpur,
Begam Hazrat Mahal in Lucknow, Lakshmi
Bai in Jhansi and Kunwar Singh in Bihar.
The British suppressed these revolts one
by one. These revolts were not restricted
to North India only; they even entered into Lakshmi Bai

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South India. In Karnataka Bhimrao of Mundaragi, tribal
Bedas of Halagali, Venkatappa Nayaka IV of Surapura and
Babasaheb of Naragund were the prominent ones to raise their
voice. Though the revolts had spread all over India, they were
suppressed in a very short duration by the British.

140
 Activity: Collect the information about the queen of
Jhansi, Lakxmibai’s war against the British.

Kunwar Sing Nana Saheb

Consequences:
Though the struggle failed, it created a long lasting effect.
As a consequence of these revolts the rule of East India
Company ended and the Queen of Britain took over the reign of
India. In 1858 queen Victoria of Britain made a proclamation
that there would be no more interference into the religious
freedom of Indians.
The struggles of 1857-58 further lead to the rise of Modern
National Movement. It proved to be an eternal inspiration for
the future wars of independence.
The Nature of the Great Revolt of 1857:
British historians have considered the 1857 struggle
of Indians as a mere ‘Sepoy Mutiny’. But Indian national
historians declared it as a great revolt of the people and called
it ‘The First War of Indian Independence’.

141
 Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was the first among those who
called it the first war of Indian independence. Even Pattabhi
Sitaramaiah stated it as the first war of Indian independence.
It was a combined effort of almost all the communities of the
nation.
The struggle of 1857 created a new political consciousness
in the history of India. As a result, anti imperialistic movements
took birth and developed in different forms. Those who lost
their lives in these fights became the house hold names. One
should remember the sacrifices of these great people.
I. Answer the following in a sentence:
1. What were the immediate reasons for the outbreak of
first war of independence?
2. Who was Mangal Pandey?
3. State any one effect of the first war of independence.
4. Who was the first nationalist to call the struggle of
1857 as the first war of independence?
5. Which Mughal king participated in the first war of
independence?
6. Name the women leader who fought in the first war of
independence?
II. Discuss in groups and answer:
1. List out the reasons for the outbreak of first war of
Indian independence.

2. Name the leaders of Karnataka who participated in

the first war of Indian independence.

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 Activity: Read the biographies of the revolutionaries
like Mangal Pandey, Jhansi Laxmibai, Tantya Tope, Nana
Saheb, Begaum Hazrat Mahal, Kunwar Singh, Mundaragi
Bheemarao etc.

3. The Freedom Movement: (1885-1919)

Policies of exploitation implemented by the British
in the second half of 19th century paved way for the
budding of nationalism. Newly educated class, who got
English education, understood the real motives of British
administration. Farmers, tribals and other classes, who were
ill treated by the British, were waiting for a stern uprising
against the British.

1. Growth of Nationalism :
India is a land of diverse cultures. It has a long cultural
and historical heritage. These laid an ideological foundation for
the growth of nationalism in the second half of 19th century.
Nationalism is the germination of the feeling ‘we are one’ in
the minds of the people of a distinct geographical area.
The lack of proper coordination among the Indians in
1857’s first war of independence resulted in a failure. This
enabled the conscious Indians to get organised. Gradually it
turned into a national movement. Various factors inspired
the growth of nationalism. They are as follows:
1. Introduction of Western Education And Modern Science:
By reading thought provoking works of Europe, Indians,
who were educated in English, understood the national
political tendencies. The concepts like liberty, equality and

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fraternity which took birth in Europe politically motivated
them and instilled a desire of freedom in them. The educated
people disproved the British calculation ‘Indians who have
learnt English will stay in support’.
2. Uniform Administrative System:
The British brought India under Uniform Administrative
System. As a result, Indians who were confined to uniform
rules felt that they were equal. Likewise, in one united voice
all Indians opposed various acts and laws implemented by the
British which were annoying people. This led to the growth of
nationalistic consciousness among the Indians.
3. Economic Exploitation :
Through their economic policies, the British remained
responsible for the decline of trade, agriculture and industries
in India. They converted land into a commodity. Dadabhai
Navaroji exposed the way British were looting the wealth of
India through his ‘Drain of Wealth’ theory.
4. Realization of Heritage :
Foreign scholors like Sir William Jones, H. T. Cole Brook,
Max Mulller, Cunningham etc. through their study enabled
Indians to know about the historical, cultural heritage of India.
There by it was confirmed to the Indians that the heritage of
India was in no way inferior to that of Greek or Rome. Thus
the roots of nationalism in the form of knowledge entered into
the deeper layers.
5. Social-Religious Movements :
Social reformers of the 19th century such as Rajaram

144
Mohan Roy, Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar, Swami Dayananda
Saraswathi, Swami Vivekananda and others advocated
the importance of education to the deprived and exploited
communities of India. While Dayananda Saraswati sowed
the idealogy of swarajya and swadeshi, Vivekananda awoke
the stagnant society. This brought a new perspective for the
growth of nationalism. This made the learned people more
creative.
6. Inspiration of the First War of Independence:
This event enabled the Indians to be politically better
organised. In addition, fearless crusaders like Mangal Pandey,
Laxmibai, Hazrat Mahal and others, who became martyres
of the war, set themselves as everlasting inspirations for the
next generation of leaders.
7. Racial Discrimination :
British believed that they were supreme and considered
Indians the most uncivilized. All the higher posts in
administration were reserved only for the British. This
naturally created unanimity among the Indians, who were
exploited by these rules and policies alike. All Indians in
one voice opposed the cruel laws and doctrines, which were
inhumane. Thus, these factors led to the growth of national
consciousness called unity.
2. Indian National Congress: (1885)
Indian national congress was the dream child of retired
British civil servant Allen Octavian Hume. It was established
in the year 1885 in Mumbai. Umesh Chandra Banerji was
the first president of the congress. There were 72 members

145
in the first convention of the congress. Most of them were
lawyers, journalists and upper class people. Infact, it was the
first political platform that boosted the national movement.

Allen Octavian Hume Umesh Chandra Banerji

British civil servant First President, Congress

A Few Presidents of India National Congress

Syed Badrudhin Tyabji Firodhshah Mehtha

Objectives of the Indian National Congress :

o bring together and build a strong bonding between
T
the political activists of different parts of the nation.
To establish national unity.

146
 o formulate public opinion by placing the demands
T
of the people before the government.
To generate nationalism in place of provincialism.
3. Age of Moderates :
The leaders who led Indian national congress in the
beginning are called as moderates. The period between 1885
and 1905 is often considered as the age of moderates. They
had faith in the constitution. Being loyal to the British rule,
they followed the method of praying, pleading and agitating.
Along with this they tried to persuade the British for social,
political and economic reformations. The prominent moderate
leaders were Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerji,
Gopalkrishna Gokhale, Mahadev Govind Ranade and others.
Because of the struggle of these moderates, Indians
were able to enter legislative assembly. It was due to their
efforts, the truth that the British were the main reason for
the pathetic condition of India came to light. At this stage, by
getting trained in political aptitude, Indians created a national
perspective for anti British protest.

Dadabhai Surendranath Gopalkrishna

Navoroji Bannerji Gokhale

147
Important Moderate Leaders:

Demands of the Moderates:

Freedom of speech and publication, seperation of
the judiciary from executive, reduction in military
expenses, installation of primary, secondary and technical
education, cancellation of ‘ban on weapons’ act, provision of
banking, irrigation, medical and health facilities, complete
cancellation of tax on salt, conducting of I.C.S. examinations
simultaneously in England and India, creating representations
for Indians in central and provincial legislative assembly,
appointing Indians to higher posts etc.

4. Age of Radicals: (1905-1919)

Lala Lajapath Roy Balgangadhar Tilak Bipin Chandra Pal

(Lal) (Bal) (Pal)

The moderates were unable to reach the common people.

The methods of praying and pleading of the moderates were
ridiculed by the radicals as the policy of mendicancy. Youths
could not get attracted towards them. A new group emerged
in the congress which questioned the ‘wait and see’ policy of

148
these moderates. They were the radicals. Lala Lajapath Roy,
Balgangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal were the leaders
of this group and were popularly known as Lal-Bal-Pal. The
period between 1905 and 1919 is considered as the age of
radicals.

Reason that led to the growth of radicals:

Ignoring Indians for higher posts in administration.
ord Curzans indulgence in communal politics by
L
dividing Bengal in 1905
he defeat of Russia in the hands of a small nation
T
Japan in 1905 created confidence that Asians could
defeat Europeans
I
ndians were inspired by the revolutionary
movements which were active in Ireland, Russia,
China, Turkey, Egypt and others.

Balagangadhar Tilak was a great patriot. His intensity of

desire for freedom could be sensed in his proclamation ‘Swaraj
is my birth right and I shall have it’. He brought people close
and intact by intoducing Ganesh and Shivaji festivals. He
published newspapers like ‘Maratha’ and ‘Kesari’ and inspired
the people politically. Bipin Chandra Pal started the daily
‘New India’ while Aurobindo started ‘Vande Mataram’. Lala
Lajapat Roy was popular as ‘the Lion of Punjab’. He roared,
‘We get Swaraj as a right and not as alms’. Bipin Chandra
Pal organised ‘mass protest’ in Bengal. Another important
radical leader was Aurobindo Ghosh. He adopted the radical
methods like boycotting foreign goods, using only swadeshi
goods and opening national schools.

149
5. Partition of Bengal: (1905)
An important event that inspired the national struggle of
the radicals was the partition of Bengal in 1905. The British
were anxious as the wave of nationalism in Bengal was getting
a strong impetus. Hence, in order to bring down the rigour
of nationalism, Lord Curzon attempted to divide Bengal
by separating Hindu and Muslim on the basis of religious
differences. In opposition to this division 16th October 1905
was observed as National Mourning Day throughout Bengal.
Rabindranath Tagore sang the song ‘Amar Sonar Bangla’
as the national song. Bankim Chandra’s ‘Vande Mataram’
became the song of the patriots. To signify the unity of Bengal,
Hindus and Muslims exchanged rakhis. Unable to withstand
the strong protest, the British had to cancel the partition in
1911.

Bankim Chandra Chatarji Lord Curzon

6. Establishment of Muslim League (1906)

The British always tried to keep the Muslims away from
the national movement by using divide and rule policy. Right
from the day of establishment of Indian National Congress,
British were encouraging Muslims to establish a separate

150
organisation to protect the interests of their community. In
1906, a Muslim Committee met the then viceroy of India, Lord
Minto. Inspired by the meeting, Sir Aga khan, Nawab Salimulla
of Dhaka and others established the Indian Muslim League
in Dhaka (capital of present Bangladesh) in 1906.
7. Surat Crisis (1907)
On the ground of controversy over Bengal partition, the
radicals held agitations on swadeshi and prohibition of
foreign goods. The moderates wanted to confine the protest
only to Bengal. Moreover, they were not ready for the direct
confrontation with the government. This led to the outburst of
differences between the moderates and the radicals giving way
to political confusions in the congress. In the 1907 congress
session held at Surat, congress was split into two between
moderates and radicals.
After the split of the congress the government took severe
punitive measures against the radicals. Several of the radicals
were sent to jail, few were sent on exile. Tilak was given black
water punishment and was sent to Mandalay jail (Burma).
To make the radicals politically inactive, the British tried
to win the favour of the moderates and Muslims by giving
greater representation in the legislature. To carry out this
intention Morley-Minto reformations were implemented in
1909. In this act they created a separate election constituency
for the Muslims. Meanwhile First World War broke out (1914).
This gave a new force to the national movement. In 1916
Lokamanya Tilak and Annie Besant organised Home Rule
movement.

151
 Home Rule:
This movement was inspired by Irish Home Rule
movement. Its main objective was to bring self-government in
India. Tilak and Annie Besant started Home Rule movements
separately in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra in the year 1916.

8. Rowlett Act (1919)

In December 1917 a committee was formed under the
guidance of justice Rowlett. Its purpose was to suppress the
revolutionary activities in India. Ultimately, the Rowlett Act
was implemented in February 1919. According to this act, on
account of suspicion, government could arrest any person
without giving any reason. Without prior notice the government
could search any person or his house. The arrested person
couldn’t even appoint a lawyer. Hence Indians opposed this
act very strongly.
9. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919)
No sooner did Gandhiji start Satyagraha against the
Rowlett act, agitations began in various parts of Punjab. On
13th April 1919, a meeting was called in Jallianwalah Bagh
garden, a little distance away from Golden Temple in Amritsar.
The intention was to demonstrate against the arrest of their
leaders Dr. Saifuddin Kichloo and Dr. Satyapal in the meeting.
The security officer of Amritsar General Dyer, in order to
teach a lesson to the protesting people, ordered to open fire
at the unarmed innocent people after closing the only exit of
the park. Taken by surprise, the crowd fell in panic. As per
the government report only 379 people had been killed. In
reality the deaths were higher than what the report told.

152
 Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Scene

10. Revolutionary Nationalism

Some of the radicals set themselves for armed revolution.
They were called as ‘Revolutionary Nationalists’. Their aim was
to fetch, at the earliest, complete freedom for India. Intense
patriotism and a tendency to sacrifice was the base concept
of revolutionary nationalism.
Vasudev Balavant Phadke was the first among the
revolutionaries who formed secret organization. Damodar and
Balakrishna Chapekar brothers were the intimate associates
of this secret organization. Both of them were arrested and
hanged till death.

153
 The other noteworthy revolutionaries of the nation were
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Khudiram Bose, Chandrashekhar
Azad and Bhagat Singh. Khudiram was the first martyr to be
hanged in the history of Indian freedom struggle (1908). At
that time his age was just 19 years.

Khudiram Bose Vinayak Damodar Savarkar

Chandrashekhar Azad Bhagat Singh

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was another revolutionary.

In 1899, he set up the first secret organization ‘Mitramela’.
The British government sentenced him for life imprisonment

154
and sent him to Andaman jail. After independence Indian
government erected his statue in Andaman jail where he
endured brutal physical tortures. Chandrashekhar Azad
joined ‘Hindustan Socialist Republican Association’ and
was an associate in some cases like the Kakori conspiracy,
bombing the legislative assembly hall and firing at British
officer Sanderson in Lahore.
In order to escape the British soldiers Azad fought all
alone with a small pistol. On finding the last bullet in his pistol
he shot himself to keep his vow of not getting arrested by
the British till death. Many martyres such as: Bhagat Singh,
Rajguru, Sukhdev, Bhagavati Charan, and Gayaprasad,
sacrified themselves to release India from the clutches of
British.
Bhagat singh joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican
Association and became its principal secretary. In 1929 Bhagat
Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev bombed central legislative
assembly, Delhi. These three were caught, trialled and hanged
in Lahore Central Jail. Bhagat Singh was the first Indian to
give the call Inquilab Zindabad (long live the revolution).
Important dates:
Establishment of Indian National Congress 1885
Age of Moderates 1885-1905
Age of Radicals 1905-1919
Partition of Bengal 1905
Establishment of Muslim League 1906
Surat Crisis 1907
Jallianwallah Bagh Massacre 1919

155
I. Answer the following in a sentence:
1. What is Nationalism?
2. By whom and when was the Indian National Congress
established?
3. When did the partition of Bengal take place?
4. What was the famous proclamation made by
Balagangadhar Tilak?
5. When was the Indian Muslim League established?
6. Who were the national leaders popularly known as
‘Lal, Bal, Pal’?
7. Who started Home Rule movement?
8. When did Jallianwallah Bagh messacre take place?
Who was the British Police Officer responsible for
this tragedy?
9. Name any one secret revolutionary organisation.
10. Who gave the call ‘Inquilab Zindabad’?
II. Discuss in groups and answer:
1. Name the factors responsible for the rise of Indian
Nationalism.
2. List out the objectives of Indian National Congress.
3. What was the role of revolutionaries in the war of
Indian Independence?
Activities:
1. Read the biography of Dadabhai Navroji and
Balagangadhar Tilak.

156
 2. Collect pictures and information of the revolutionaries
and prepare an album.
3. Read the biographies of the following revolutionaries;
write an article and display it on the bulletin board of
your school.
Vasudev Balavanth Phadke, Khudiram Bose,
Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Madam Kama

3. The Gandhian Age (1919-1947 CE)

We remember Mahatma Gandhiji with love as ‘Bapu’. He

was the great leader in India’s National struggle. He dedicated
himself to eradicate untouchability and achieve harmony of
Hindu Muslims. This period of political struggle under his
leadership was called ‘Gandhian Age’ (19191-1947 CE)

1. Mahatma Gandhi
Non violence and Sathygraha were the weapons of
Gandhiji’s struggle. He converted the freedom struggle into a
Mass Movement. Simplicity, Truthfulness and Pious Behaviour
were his main success traits.
Beginning life
Gandhiji was born on 2nd October 1869 at Porabandar in
Gujarat state. His father was Karama Chanda Gandhi, mother
was Puthalibai.

The prominent books which influenced Gandhi’s life:

Bhagavadgita John Ruskin’s Unto this Last, Leo Tolstoy’s
The Kingdom of God is within you and Satya Harischandra's
Drama.

157
Gandhiji in South Africa
Gandhi had his primary education in Porabandar. He
went to England for higher education. He got law degree in
Britain. In 1891 he returned to India and involved in his
lawyer profession in Rajkot and Mumbai. Later on as per
the invitation of Dada Abdullah Company he went to South
Africa as legal adviser. While in South Africa Gandhiji was
shocked to see Indians as they were living in lower level. ‘White’
government racial policy was condemned by him. Through
the routes of sathygraha and non-violence he succeeded in
changing government’s racial prejudice.

The theory of sathygraha has been joined by two Sanskrit

words: ‘Satya’ means real fact. ‘Agraha’ means compulsion.
This means “stand firmly by the side of truth”.

Activity: Collect more information about sathygraha

and non-violent movements which were done by Gandhi in
South Africa.

Initial Political Life : In 1915 CE, after Gandhi returned

to India he established Sabaramathi Ashram in 1916 CE. As
per the guidance of his political guru Gopalkrishna Gokhale
he toured through out India and and got to see the sorrowful
condition of people. He fought for the farmers in champaran
and Kheda.
Champaran: The grouse of farmers against the planters
of Champaranya has a long history. The planters were
putting pressure on the farmers to Indigo. Gandhiji started

158
Sathyagraha against the planters in 1917 CE. Finally, the
problems of the farmers got solved. Babu Rajendraprasad
emerged as a leader through this movement.
Kheda farmers struggle: Kheda was the main district of
Gujarat State. In 1918 CE farmers were economically ruined
due to the failure of crops. Hence, they appealed for the
exemption of land tax for that year. The government rejected
their appeal and insisted on collecting the tax. As a result,
the farmers agitated against this move. Gandhiji extended
his support to this movement and asked the farmers not pay
the land tax. Finally, the government announced only who
could afford to pay the tax can pay. Gandhiji accepted this
and agreed to take back Sathyagraha. Sardar Vallabhabai
Patel emerged as a leader out of this movement.
Gandhi in freedom fighting
The year 1919 is an important milestone in the history
of freedom fighting. This year Gandhiji entered the Indian
political filed. He had realized that pushing out the British
by physical strength alone is impossible. In 1919, he led
movements against Rowlet Act and the massacre at Jalin
Walabagh. He also provided leadership to Kilafath Movement.
His goal was to establish harmony among Hindu and Muslims.

What is Khilafath Movement?

Turkey empire was under the hands of Khalif. Khalif
was the supreme religious leader to all Muslims of the World.
Turkey stood aginst Britan in First World War and was
defeated. Arabia, Jordan, Iraq which were part of Turkey
became independent states.

159
 In 1919 leader Kamal Pasha pushed out Khalifs and
came to the power. The Muslims of India reacted to this and
launched a Movement against the British and in favour of
Khalif. This is called Khilafath Movement. Gandhiji led the
movement. Muhammad Ali and Shaukath Ali (Ali brothers)
were the main leaders of this movement.

2. Non Co-operation Movement (1920-1922)

Non Cooperation movement was started in 1920 CE under
the leadership of Gandhiji. He a gave call to people not to co-
operate with the administration and also press for Swaraj. As
a part of this movement, people boycotted courts, educational
institutions, legislative assemblies and the British products.
The government programs were also boycotted and titles given
by the government were returned.

The prominent leaders like Chittarajan Das, Mothilal

Nehru, Vallabhabai Patel, Subhas Chandra Bose joined
this movement. The people from all walks of life who were
attracted by the non-violence and Sathyagraha joined the
movement. Students, farmers and women participated in
this movement. This was a novel experience for Indians.
Ravindranath Tagore returned his Knighthood and Gandhiji
returned his ‘Kaiser e Hind’ award. In order to suppress this
movement, the government adopted violent methods. Enraged
people indulged in violence and burnt twenty two policemen
alive in a police station in Chauri Chaura in 1922. Gandhiji
considered this seriously.

From 1924 to 1929, Gandhiji engaged himself in

popularizing Khadi and uplifting Harijans. The national
movements were continued under the leadership of Swarajya
Party C.R.Dass and Mothilal Nehru.

160
 Gandhiji’s Journals and important Books
My Experiments with Truth, Hind Swaraj, Satyagraha in
South Africa are Gandhiji’s important books. Harijan and
Young India are the journals he edited.

Nehru Report (1927 CE)

The British challenged the Indian leadership to form a
constitution that can be acceptable for all the Indians. An
all party was called and a committee was formed under the
leadership of Mothilal Nehru. The report expressed acceptance
of self rule under the British rule and also expressed its desire
for complete independence in the long run.
Simon Commission (1928 CE)
British Government sent Simon Commission to India
to study 1919s reforms and to give report of its functions in
Indian provinces. All members of commission were English and
there was no representation to Indians in that commission.

Go back Simon Commission scene

161
 So Indians by proclaiming ‘Simon, Go Back’ boycotted
Simon Commission. The public agitation at Lahore took
a serious turn. Lala Lajapath Roy was injured in police
lathicharge and died later in 1928.
The Complete Independence (1929 CE) (Poorna Swaraj)
The youth leaders within the Indian National Congress
rejected the Nehru report of self rule under the British and
were led by Jawahar Lal Nehru and Subhaschandra Bose.
They tabled the motion for ‘Complete Independence’ (Poorna
Swaraj) in Lahore convention of Indian National Congress of
1929. It was decided to mark January 26th, 1930 as the Poorna
Swaraj day. In order to keep the memory of this decision, it
was decided to adopt the Constitution of Independent India on
January 26th, 1950. This day is celeberated as The Republic
Day till then.
Civil Disobedience Movement

Dandi March Scene

162
 Gandhiji started Civil Disobedience Movement with this
famous Dandi March on March 12th, 1930 CE with chosen 78
followers. He walked about 375 kilometers from Sabaramathi
Ashram to Gujarat’s Dandi. The march aimed at producing
salt on his own and break the law.
Civil Disobedience Movement quickly extended to other
parts of the country. People participated in Harthal, boycotted
foreign goods, advertised Khadi, protested in front of liquor
shops, Forest Sathyagrahas were held and tax refusal was
done. Salt Sathygraha of Ankola achieved fame across India.
In the same period, the Frontier Gandhi, Khan Abdul
Gafar Khan established ‘Kudayith Kidmathigar’ (Servants of
the God) association. Rani Gaidinliu, a thirteen year old girl
from Nagaland revolted against the British. This made the
British to provide some political releifs to Indians.
Round Table Conference (1930-1932)
After Dandi March British government organized three
Round Table Conferences in London. Gandhiji participated
on behalf of congress in Second Round Table conference.
But these conferences failed to find solution for the Indian
political problems.
But Britan Viceroy Ramsay Macdonald announced
‘Communal Award’ after Round Table Conference in 1932.
According to it ‘a separate constituency’ was created for the
depressed classes. This judgment was opposed by Gandhiji
as it was aimed at breaking the unity among Indians. So,
he started fast-unto-death at Yervada jail in Pune. Finally,
Ambedkar and Gandhi reached Poona Pact in 1932 and the
problem was solved.

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 In order to increase the representation of Indians in political
and administrative areas of the government, the ‘Government
of India Act of 1935’ was implemented by the British.
Quit India Movement
Failure of Cripps Commission made Indians angry.
Gandhiji called a Congress meeting in Mumbai on August
8, 1942 CE. The decision to start ‘Quit India Movement’ was
taken here. The call ‘Do or Die’ was given to Indians. The next
day the government arrested the Gandhiji and other leaders.

Quit India Movement

As the news of arrests spread, people started Harthals and

protests against the British in schools, colleges and factories.
The post offices, railway stations and police stations were
raided by the angry mob. This movement was supported by
farmers, students and workers.
The ‘Quit India’ movement failed to realize its immediate
political goal. But it proved the desire among the Indians for
independence. This was a major movement in the Ghandhi
phase of freedom struggle.

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Subhash Chandra Bose and The Indian National Army
(I.N.A.)
The role of Subhash Chandra Bose is unique in Indian
freedom Movement. He was a talented student of Calcutta
University. He got fourth rank in I.C.S. Exam that took place
in London. Due to inspiration of Chittanrajan Das, Subhas
Chandra Bose was attracted to Freedom Movement. He was
also inspired by the life and works of Swami Vivekananda.
Subhaschandra Bose had a lot of reverence for Gandhi. But
he opposed his political policy. Finally, he resigned from the
Congress party in 1939 due severe differences with Gandhi.
He founded ‘Forward Block’ party.
By this time, the Second World War had started. The British
put Subhaschandra Bose in house arrest due to his radical
views. But Bose managed to escape from the house arrest
and reached Berlin through Peshawar, Kabul and Moscow.
Bose entered to an agreement with Hitler, the enemy of the
British and secured his help to push the British out of India.
During this period, Japan had entered the Second World
War. Around forty thousand Indian Soldiers were taken as
prinsoners of war by Japan. They were part of the British
army. These imprisoned soldiers united under the leadership
of Mohan Singh and formed ‘Indian National Army’ or Azad
Hind Fauz. Subhas Chandra Bose arrived at Singapore and
accepted the leadership of INA in 1943. Subhas was called
as Netaji. An Independent Interim Government of India was
founded at Singapore. This government was given recognition
by Italy, Germany and Japan. By declaring ‘Chalo Dilli’ the INA
attacked India from Burma and moved 150 miles into Indian
Territory (the present Manipur) and hoisted the tricoloured
flag. But, Rangoon, the capital of Burma was captured by the

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British. This was a major setback to INA. Meanwhile, Japan
came under Atomic Bomb attack and surrendered in 1945.
Netaji who had boarded a place on August 18th disappeared
mysteriously.
INA failed to achieve its immediate political target. But, it
has a unique place in the annals of Indian history. Netaji had
given a call, “You give me blood, I’ll give you freedom”. INA
stands an example of the extraordinary capacity of Nethaji
Subhas Chandra Bose. His adventurous journey to Moscow
from Culcutta and then to Germany and from Germany to
Japan in those difficult times is extraordinary. His aim was
to free India with the help of enemies of the British. He has
left a tradition of valour, bravery , adventure and a culture
of national pride.
Ambedkar and his reforms
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar brought the
issue of Social Independence to the
forefront while India was fighting for the
political independence. He fought for
the eradication of untouchability having
experienced it in his early life.
A mbe dkar was bo rn i n M ho w
of the Central Province (present
Madhyapradesh) on April 14th, 1891.
Father was Ramaji Sakpal and mother
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was Bheemabai. His birth name was
Bheemrao and completed his studies
locally. He completed his education at Elphinstone High
School in Bombay. He completed his higher education at
London School of Economics and earned his P.hd from the
Coloumbia University. He also got LLD and Bar at Law degrees.
He cultivated an independent personality through his self
study.

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 As he was born into an untouchable caste Mahar, he had
experienced the pain of untouchabiltiy. He was convinced
that only through Constitutional measures, the social evil
untouchabiltiy can be eradicated. Hence, he launched various
struggles against the untouchability. Among them Mahad
Movement and Entering the Kalaram temple of Nasik are
important. He created awareness and self identity among
the Dalits. He edited ‘Mookanayak’ and ‘Bahiskruth Bharat’
periodicals to voice the issues of Dalits. He also established
‘Bahiskruth Hithakarani Sabha’.
Ambekdar took part in all the three round table conferences
that took place in London as a representative of Dalit classes.
The British declared ‘Communal Award’ wherein a separate
constituency was allotted for the Dalits in 1932. Gandhiji
opposed this and sat for a hunger strike in Yeravada jail near
Poona. Ambedkar and Gandhi arrived at an agreement and
entered Poona Pact in 1932 that ended the conflict. Later,
Ambedkar became the Chairman of the Drafting Committee
of the Indian Constitution. He is remembered as the ‘Chief
Architect of Indian Constitution’.
He was the first law minister of Independent India. He
died on December 6th, 1956. He had accepted Buddhism few
months before his death. ‘Bharath Ratna was awarded to him
posthumously in 1990. Ambedkar had called for ‘Education,
Organisation and Agitation’.
Socialists
The Socialist thoughts became popular during 1930s in
and out of Congress party. By 1934, a Socialist Group had

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clearly emerged in the congress. Most of the socialists were
younger generation. They established ‘Congress Socialist
Party’. Jaya Prakash Narayan became its General Secretary.
Acharya Narendra Dev, Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhaschandra
Bose were the other leaders. Though Nehru identified himself
as Socialist, he was with Gandhiji.

Jawaharlal Jayaprakash Acharaya Narendra

Nehru Narayana Dev

The Socialists organized the farmers and workers to attain

social justice in Indian society. Jayaprakash Naryan, Ram
Manohar Lohia and Aruna Asf Ali and other Socialist leaders
took part in Quit India movement and performed major roles
in its success and emerged as popular leaders.
Jayaprakash Narayan (J.P.)
Jayaprakash Narayan was born in 1902 CE in Bihar. He
completed his higher education in American Universities for
more than seven years. While studying in America, he became
familiar with Socialist philosophy. On returning to India, he
joined Congress as per the guidance of Nehru. He formed

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Congress Socialist Party in 1934. He was arrested in 1941
and escaped from Hazaribagh jail the following year and went
underground. He gave his support for Quit India movement
from there itself. He toured entire Inida in disguise. He was
arrested in 1944 and imprisoned at Lahore Fort. He was
released from there later.
He became part of Bhoodhan Movement of Vinobha Bhave.
He entered politics in 1974 and called for ‘Total Revolution’.
As a result of this movement, the Janatha Party came to
power. When Janatha Party divided into two due to its internal
friction, Jayaprakash Narayan was left disillusioned. He died
in the year 1979. People called him as ‘Loknayak’ out of love.
Towards Independence
Due to public pressure and the after effects of the Second
World War, the British tried to arrive at final solution for the
Indian problem. The British had become weak economically
and militarily.
The Labour Government that came to power in 1945
wanted to enter a definitive political agreement with India.
Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, Vallabhabai Patel and Jawaharlal
Nehru took the pivotal decisions regarding the future of India.
The British Government sent a Cabinet Commission to
India to work the modalities of handing over the power of
India in 1946. But the Muslim League under the leadership
of Mohammad Ali Jinah wanted the creation of Pakistan and
was adamant in its demand. Hence division of India became
inevitable. On June 3rd, 1947; the Last Viceyroy and the
Governor General of India, Lord Mountbaten declared the
division of India and the handing over of power of India.

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 Mulana Abdul Kalam Azad Vallabha Bhai Patel

On August 14th, 1947 Pakistan

became separate from India. India
became independent on August 15th,
1947. Jawaharlal Nehru became the
first Prime Minister. The British who
had arrived in India for trade had ruled
India for two hundred years and
leaving it economically and politically
weak. The freedom struggle of the
Indians finally forced the British to
Lord Mount Batten
leave India. The day August 15th,
1947 when the foreign occupation ended, is an unforgettable
memory in the annals of the Indian history.

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Important years
Gandhiji’s Birth - October 2, 1869,
Non-cooperation Movement - 1920-1922.
Chauri Chaura Tragedy - 1922
Poorna Swaray Declaration - 1929.
Poorna Swaraj Day - January 26,1930
Salt Sathygraha - April, 1930
Poona Pact - 1932.
Second World War - 1939-1945.
Quit India Movement - 1942
Independence to India - August 15th, 1947

EXERCISES
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words
1. Gandhiji’s political guru was ______________
2. ___________ Ashram was established by Gandhiji hear
Ahmedabad.
3. Chauri Chaura incident happened in the year________
4. “Poorna Swaraj” declaration was adopted in __________
5. General Secretary of the Congress Socialist Party was
_______________
6. ‘Total Revolution’ agitation was started by ___________
7. _______________ was the first Prime Minister of
Independent India.

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II. Answer the following questions in one sentence.
1. Where and when was Gandhiji born?
2. Who was the political Guru of Gandhiji?
3. Between whom the Poona Pact took place?
4. Who started ‘Forward Black’?
5. Expand I.N.A.
6. In which movement did Gandhiji give a call ‘Quit
India’?
7. Who gave the declared ‘Give me blood, I will give you
freedom’?
8. When was Ambedkar born?
9. Who was called ‘Architect of the Constitution’ of
India?
10. Who was called “Lokanayaka’?
III. Answer the following questions after discussing in
your groups.
1. Write about Gandhiji’s Civil Disobedience Movement.
2. Explain Quit India Movement.
3. Explain briefly the freedom struggle of Subhash
Chandra Bose.
4. Explain Ambedkar’s struggle for Social Independence.
Activity
Collect more information about “Dandi March’ and
“Quit India Movement’ struggles.

  

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