Attendant Lords: Bairam Khan and Abdur Rahim, Courtiers and Poets in Mughal India by T.C.A. Raghavan

Description

“Attendant Lords: Bairam Khan and Abdur Rahim, Courtiers and Poets in Mughal India” is a book written by T.C.A. Raghavan. Published in 2017, the book focuses on the lives and roles of Bairam Khan and Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, two prominent courtiers and poets in the Mughal Empire during the 16th century.

Bairam Khan was a Turkic nobleman and military commander who served as a regent for the young Mughal emperor Akbar. He played a crucial role in stabilizing and consolidating the Mughal Empire during its early years. Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, on the other hand, was a nobleman, statesman, and poet who served in the Mughal court under Akbar and his successors, Jahangir and Shah Jahan.

“Attendant Lords” explores the lives and careers of these two influential figures, shedding light on their political maneuverings, administrative contributions, and their cultural and literary legacies. The book examines their roles in the Mughal court, their relationships with the emperors they served, and their impact on the political and cultural landscape of Mughal India.

Raghavan delves into the poetry and literary works of Bairam Khan and Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, analyzing their poetic styles, themes, and contributions to the rich tradition of Mughal literature. He explores their engagement with Persian and Indian poetic traditions and their ability to navigate the complex political and cultural milieu of the time.

Furthermore, the book provides insights into the broader historical and cultural context of the Mughal Empire, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by courtiers and poets during this period. It offers a nuanced portrayal of the intricate relationships between power, politics, and culture in Mughal India.

“Attendant Lords” is known for its meticulous research, scholarly analysis, and its ability to bring to life the stories of Bairam Khan and Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan. By examining their contributions as courtiers, administrators, and poets, the book provides a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of the Mughal Empire and its cultural and literary heritage.