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History question from JKAS Prelims, 2024 by JKPSC

Consider the following statements:

Assertion (A): Atharva Veda, Mahabharata, Ramayana and Gita were translated into Persian during Akbar’s reign.
Reason (R): Jahangir set up a translation bureau for Sanskrit, Arabic and Greek works.

Choose the correct answer:

Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Correct Answer: Option B — Both A & R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
Akbar's goal was to create a bridge between the diverse religious and cultural traditions of his empire. He believed that translating Sanskrit texts would help the Muslim ruling class understand Hindu philosophy and reduce communal friction.

The Razmnama: This is the Persian translation of the Mahabharata. Akbar commissioned prominent scholars like Faizi and Badauni for this task.

The Ramayana: Also translated by Badauni, despite his personal orthodox reservations about the content.

Key Scholars: The bureau was led by Abul Fazl and his brother Faizi, who were the intellectual pillars of Akbar's court.

Common Pitfalls in this Topic
Akbar vs. Dara Shikoh: While Akbar translated the Gita and Vedas, it was his great-grandson, Dara Shikoh, who later translated 52 Upanishads into Persian (titled Sirr-i-Akbar).

Language: Remember that Persian was the official court language of the Mughals, which is why Sanskrit works were translated into Persian rather than Urdu or Arabic.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.

About this question

JKPSC JKAS 2024 Prelims

Details

Exam JKPSC
Recruitment JKAS
Stage Prelims
Year 2024
Subject History
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