First of all, thanks for the post and the pictures Abhay.
1. Does the presence of ladies in the portraits speaks something of women's position in that era ?
If Akbar abolished forced Sati, took steps to prevent female infanticide and insisted of the agreement of the bride as well for marriage and set an age bar for the welfare of women, his respect for women is so clear.
Such broadmindedness is the mark of great men. You might know of Raja Raja Chola who ruled 500 years before Akbar, who took the advice of his elder sister on all matters of political importance from his elder sister inspite of being a shrewd king himself. These men were centuries beyond their times, more forward thinking than even the present day men.
You have mentioned the names of so many important women in the Mughal history and the rest of India history of that time which clearly proves their importance. Women were present in the court and their opinions considered. The presence of women in the painting (I think there are 3?) clearly shows that they are a part of administration. If they had the rights to oversee the spoils of the war it by itself is a proof that they were politically active.
Contrary to popular belief, India has always been more respectful to women than the west in history and their talents have been better appreciated.
2. Also, about the expertise of the painters of those times, that in an illustration of a size comparable to 20x30 cms, they could display such fine scenes, with delicate details.??..👏
Marvellous. Simply Marvelous. They say that Da Vinci embedded so many secrets and codes and information in his paintings. These paintings that you have posted too reveal so much about the lifestyle, dressing, events, practices and attitudes in that era. To a more observant viewer who knows history better, these paintings may tell stories.
3. Would also like to hear about the destruction / losses of historical treasures at the hands of various agencies..?.?..
The most unfortunate thing!!!!
When Akbar/Hk's own great grandson could destroy details, what can be said of others. From the Kohinoor, so much has been looted and destroyed for selfish reasons. National Pride was a lost commodity under the British rule who made the Indians feel that they were scum and their history was nothing to feel proud of. (Incidentally, when the west was leading a nomadic life still, we in India led a civilised life, had universities and created literature that are relevant even today.) It is only recently that attitudes are changing and the need to preserve the historical treasures is felt. Political red-tapism is a deterrent now.
4. Also, regarding the fight on boats.?? This was interesting.
North India is a landlocked region. Gujarat and Bengal are the only regions that have coastlines. So a strong navy might not have been an utmost necessity and the Mughal Army compensated for any shortcoming on water. Yet it is interesting to note that Akbar tried his hand in this too.
Anupamaa
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