According to Alberuni’s Kitab-ul-Hind (or Tahqiq-i-Hind) in the 11th century, the Antyaj (classes below the Chaturvarna as Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras) included both categories. They encompassed laborers and craftsmen involved in ‘unclean’ trades like washermen, cobblers, weavers, and shield-makers ...
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Alberuni’s full name was Abu Raihan Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Biruni. A renowned Persian polymath, he visited India during Mahmud Ghaznavi’s reign. He mastered several sciences, including astronomy, mathematics, linguistics and geography. His work Kitab-ul-Hind reflects his deep interest in Indian ...
Alberuni’s Kitab-ul-Hind is a comprehensive study of Indian society, covering astronomy, mathematics, religion, philosophy, history and geography. He analyzed Hindu scriptures, caste practices, festivals and scientific knowledge. His work remains one of the most detailed foreign accounts of India during ...
Alauddin Khalji introduced strict market reforms, including price control measures, to stabilize essential commodities such as grains, cloth, horses and slaves. He set fixed prices, appointed market inspectors and established granaries. These measures ensured affordable supplies for the army and ...
Alauddin Khalji strongly resisted the interference of the ulama (religious scholars) in political decisions. He believed the state should be governed by practical needs, not religious opinions. His administrative and economic reforms were designed according to state interests and he ...