Telangana, a region rich in history, has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries. Its coinage and inscriptions offer valuable insights into the political, economic, and social life of its people, particularly during the medieval period under the Bahmani and Qutb Shahi dynasties.
Numismatic Evidence from the Bahmani and Qutb Shahi Periods
The Bahmani Sultanate (1347-1518) and the subsequent Qutb Shahi dynasty (1518-1687) left behind a rich legacy of coinage that sheds light on their reign in Telangana.
Bahmani Coinage: The Bahmani Sultans issued coins in gold, silver, and copper. These coins typically featured the Sultan's name, titles, and the mint where they were struck. Some coins also carried religious inscriptions, reflecting the Islamic faith of the rulers. The Bahmani coins provide valuable information about the extent of their kingdom, their economic policies, and their cultural influences.
Qutb Shahi Coinage: The Qutb Shahis continued the tradition of minting coins in various metals. Their coins, however, often displayed more elaborate calligraphy and artistic designs. The most famous Qutb Shahi coins are the 'Pagodas' large, thin gold coins that were highly valued for their purity and craftsmanship. These coins played a vital role in the regional and international trade of the time.
Key Features of Bahmani and Qutb Shahi Coinage:
Variety of Metals: Coins were minted in gold, silver, and copper, catering to different economic classes and transactions.
Islamic Inscriptions: The coins often featured Quranic verses or the Kalima, reflecting the Islamic faith of the rulers.
Mint Marks: Coins carried mint marks indicating the cities where they were produced, providing insights into the economic centers of the kingdoms.
Artistic Evolution: The Qutb Shahi coins, in particular, show a progression in artistic design and calligraphy compared to the earlier Bahmani coins.
Epigraphic Records from Medieval Telangana
Inscriptions found on stones, temples, and other structures across Telangana provide a wealth of information about the region's history during the medieval period.
Royal Proclamations: Many inscriptions record the decrees and achievements of the Bahmani and Qutb Shahi rulers. These provide details about their administrative systems, land grants, and military campaigns.
Religious and Cultural Life: Inscriptions on temples and mosques shed light on the religious practices and cultural traditions of the period. They reveal the patronage extended to various religious institutions and the construction of significant architectural monuments.
Social and Economic Conditions: Some inscriptions provide glimpses into the social structure, economic activities, and daily life of the people in medieval Telangana. They mention various professions, trade routes, and social customs.
Significance of Epigraphic Records:
Primary Sources: Inscriptions serve as direct evidence of historical events and provide authentic information about the past.
Linguistic Insights: The language used in inscriptions helps trace the evolution of local dialects and the influence of different languages.
Cultural Heritage: Inscriptions preserve the cultural heritage of Telangana, showcasing its rich history and traditions.
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