François Bernier
Following the arrival of the Portuguese in India around 1500, numerous accounts were written by them detailing Indian social customs and religious practices. Some, like the Jesuit Roberto Nobili, even undertook translations of Indian texts into European languages. Among the notable Portuguese writers was Duarte Barbosa, whose extensive work provided insights into trade and society in south India. Subsequently, from the early 1600s onwards, there was an increasing influx of Dutch, English, and French travelers to India. Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a renowned French jeweler, made multiple visits to India and was particularly intrigued by its trading conditions, drawing comparisons with Iran and the Ottoman Empire. Notably, individuals like the Italian doctor Manucci chose to settle in India permanently, never returning to Europe.
François Bernier, a French polymath, spent twelve years in India from 1656 to 1668, seeking opportunities within the Mughal Empire. He was closely associated with the Mughal court, serving as a physician to Prince Dara Shukoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan. Later, Bernier established himself as an intellectual and scientist, collaborating with Danishmand Khan, an Armenian noble at the Mughal court.
Chapter 5 François Bernier| Class 12 History Notes
Francois Bernier was a Frenchman, a doctor, a political philosopher, and a historian. He came to the Mughal court in search of opportunities. He was in India for twelve years from 1656 to 1668. He was closely associated with the Mughal court as a physician to Prince Dara Shukoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan.
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