Volumes of Ain-i-Akbari
The Ain-i-Akbari is divided into five volumes.
- The first volume called the Manzil-Abadi deals with the imperial household and its maintenance. This volume contains ninety ‘ains’ or regulations that describe the different occupations of that time. It also talks about the imperial mint, the royal seals, the imperial harem and the imperial kitchen with its recipes. It also contains information on the maintenance of the Mughal army during Akbar’s reign.
- The second volume is called the Sipah-Abadi and it deals with the servants of the emperor, military and civil services. It describes the treatment given to them and also talks about the attendants of the court who are geniuses in literature or music.
- The third volume called the Mulk-Abadi deals with the imperial administration. It gives details about the regulations of the judicial and executive departments, establishment of a new and more political era, survey of land and tribal divisions.
- The fourth volume describes the Hindu philosophy. It talks in great detail about the Hindu philosophy, science, social customs and literature. The Hindus formed the bulk of the population and Akbar viewed them as important for the stability of the empire. There is also information about foreign invaders and famous travellers.
- The fifth book contains the sayings of Akbar. It contains his observations, sayings and sentences spoken by Akbar and collected by Abul Fazl.
Akbar Nama and Ain-i Akbari
The Akbar Nama and the Ain-i-Akbari are the two monumental literary works that stand as beacons illuminating the era of Emperor Akbar. During the illustrious reign of Emperor Akbar, the Mughal Empire witnessed a flourishing of art, culture, and administrative innovation.
The Akbar Nama and the Ain-i-Akbari, Commissioned by Akbar himself and penned by the erudite Abul Fazl, these texts offer unparalleled insights into the life, governance, and societal fabric of the Mughal era. Written in Persian, they stand as enduring monuments to Akbar’s enlightened rule and continue to enrich our understanding of this fascinating period in Indian history.
In this article, we will read about Akbar Nama and Ain-i Akbari, their author, volumes, and significance.
Table of Content
- What is Akbar Nama and Ain-i-Akbari?
- Abul Fazl – Author of Akbar Nama and Ain-i Akbari
- What is Akbar Nama?
- Volumes of Akbar Nama
- What is Ain-i-Akbari?
- Volumes of Ain-i-Akbari
- Significance of the Akbar Nama and Ain-i Akbari