Articles | Open Access | Vol. 4 No. 10 (2024): Volume 04 Issue 10

THE LITERARY CONTRIBUTIONS OF GULBADAN BEGUM: A MUGHAL COURT LADY’S INFLUENCE ON PERSIAN LITERATURE AND HISTORY

Tuhina Islam , Research Scholar, Department of History, Aligarh University, India

Abstract

Gulbadan Begum, a prominent figure in the Mughal court, is often recognized for her significant yet underappreciated contributions to Persian literature and historical documentation. As the daughter of Emperor Babur and sister of Emperor Humayun, her unique position afforded her access to the intricacies of the Mughal court, allowing her to observe and participate in the rich cultural milieu of her time. This paper explores Gulbadan Begum’s literary works, particularly her memoir, Humayun Nama, which provides a rare female perspective on Mughal history and politics. Through her writings, Gulbadan offers insights into the lives of women in the royal household, the dynamics of power, and the cultural practices of the Mughal Empire. By analyzing her contributions, this study aims to highlight the importance of female voices in historical narratives and the impact of Gulbadan Begum on the preservation and understanding of Mughal heritage. Her works not only enrich Persian literature but also serve as crucial historical documents that challenge traditional narratives of gender and authority in the Mughal period.

Keywords

Gulbadan Begum, Mughal court, literary contributions

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Tuhina Islam. (2024). THE LITERARY CONTRIBUTIONS OF GULBADAN BEGUM: A MUGHAL COURT LADY’S INFLUENCE ON PERSIAN LITERATURE AND HISTORY. Frontline Social Sciences and History Journal, 4(10), 12–21. Retrieved from https://www.frontlinejournals.org/journals/index.php/fsshj/article/view/605