UPSC Prelims 2015 Question:

Consider the following:

The arrival of Babur into India led to the

1. introduction of gunpowder in the subcontinent
2. introduction of the arch and dome in the region’s architecture
3. establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region
   
   

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Explanation:

• Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India. His original name was Zahiruddin Muhammad. Gunpowder was known in India earlier than Babur's rule. According to some historians, it was introduced and used by the Sultans of Delhi after acquiring the knowledge of its production from the Mongols. So, statement 1 is not correct.
  
  
• Arches and Domes were introduced in India during the Delhi Sultanate Period. The introduction of Islamic architectural elements, such as real domes and arches, as well as the fusion of Indian and Islamic architectural styles were the Delhi Sultanate's greatest contributions to Indian fine arts. For example, the Alai Darwaza, an entrance to the Qutub Minar by Alauddin Khalji had domes and arches. So, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  
• Babur was a descendant of Timurid dynasty or clan of Turco-Mongol lineage, descended from the warlord Timur and led to the establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region. He was a great statesman and a man of solid achievements. He was also a great scholar in Arabic and Persian languages. Turki was his mother tongue. He wrote his memoirs, Tuzuk-i-Baburi in the Turkish language. It provides a vivid account of India. He frankly confesses his own failures without suppressing any facts. He was also a naturalist and described the flora and fauna of India. So, statement 3 is correct
  
  

Therefore, option (2) is the correct answer.  

Subject: History | Mughal Empire