Question

how did the pending in India developed during the medieval period

Answer 1

No, medieval India was not a dark age for India. There was political instability in that era but that did not mean there was no development. Infact, there was development on all fronts: economic, social, cultural and even political. India as we see today would not have been so without this phase.

1. The material life which was firmly established by the Gupta dynasty was furthered by the subsequent dynasties. Material advancement in the form of better trade routes,token currency, scientific assessment of agricultural produce was introduced.

Many new towns were established by the local rulers leading to substantial urbanization of rural India.

2. Culturally, the medieval times was very rich with commingling of varied cultures like Romans, Turks, Afghans with Indians. The Bhakti and Sufi movements are the gifts of this period.

3. Music found a new meaning under the Nayanars, Alvars, Vaishnavites and Sufis. Amir Khusrau introduced new ragas and instruments to Indian music.

4. All the modern languages developed in this age under the patronage of able local and regional leaders.

5. Book keeping and other business related activities found new spurt in the times of Mughals.

6. Architectural advancement in this phase is marveled, the Arabesque and Turkish influence brought in rich architectural knowledge. The skill of arch and dome style monuments made in India is unique. The golden temple of Amritsar utilized this technique. The Taj Mahal, Brihadeshwara Temple, Meenashi Temple, Gomateshwara at Sravana Belgola, Gol Gumbad, Char Minar are just few names for architectural marvel of this age.

7. Administrative structure setup by Akbar was widely used by Britishers during their stay in India. Remnants of which are heard of it even today.

8. Canals and roads build during this period are utilized even today. Like the Agra canal, Grand Trunk road to name a few.

9. Many able leaders took birth in this phase: Akbar, Shivaji, Sher Shah Suri who inspire people even today.


Although, science and education were the biggest sufferers in this age and cases of communal disharmony and persecution cannot be ruled out. The Medieval age cannot be called a dark age. Every era has its positives and negatives. Advancement did happen in this era even though the centers of development changed allegiance and location due to frequent changes in politics.