Who among the following historians has characterised the Bijapur state as ‘feudal’ ?

The correct answer is - M.A. Nayeem

Key Points

• M.A. Nayeem
  • He is a prominent historian who has studied the Deccan Sultanates, including Bijapur.
  • Nayeem characterized the Bijapur state as "feudal" due to its administrative and social structure, which was heavily dependent on the distribution of land and loyalty-based hierarchy.
  • The Bijapur Sultanate operated under a system where land grants (jagirs) were distributed to nobles and officers, which is a key feature of feudalism.
  • This feudal structure allowed the Sultanate to maintain control over its vast territories by delegating authority to local rulers and officials.

Additional Information

• Bijapur Sultanate
  • The Bijapur Sultanate was one of the Deccan Sultanates that ruled parts of southern India from the 15th to the 17th centuries.
  • It was established in 1490 by Yusuf Adil Shah, who broke away from the Bahmani Sultanate.
  • The Sultanate is known for its contributions to art, architecture, and culture, including the construction of iconic structures like the Gol Gumbaz.
• Feudalism in Bijapur
  • The administrative system of the Bijapur Sultanate was characterized by the distribution of land to nobles and military officers in return for military service, a hallmark of feudalism.
  • This system created a decentralized power structure, with local lords holding significant authority in their regions.
  • While this system ensured loyalty and efficient administration, it also made the central authority dependent on the allegiance of local rulers.
• Other Historians
  • J.F. Richards - Focused on the Mughal Empire and its administration, rather than Bijapur.
  • Richard Eaton - Known for his work on the social and cultural history of the Deccan but does not characterize Bijapur as feudal.
  • Salma Farouqui - A historian who has written extensively on Indian history but does not specifically describe Bijapur as feudal.