Write a note on the Kitab-ul-Hind.
Kitab-ul-Hind was written by Al-Biruni in 1031. It was considered with India and also known by the name of Tarikh-ul-Hind and Tahqiq-ma-ul-Hind. It was written in Arabic. It is divided into 80 Chapters. They have thrown a detailed light on Hindu religions and philosphy, festivals, customs and tradition, the social and economic as well as political life of the people. In each chapter he adopted a distinctive style and had a question in the beginning. It was followed by a description based on Sanskrit tradition, At last he compare the India culture with other culture. This geometric structure he followed is known for its precision and predictability. The main reason for this structure was Al-Biruni’s mathematical orientation.
On an outline map of the world, mark the countries visited by Ibn Battuta. What are the seas that he might have crossed?
Do you think Ibn Battuta's account is useful in arriving at an understanding of life in contemporary urban centres? Give reasons for your answer.
Read this excerpt from Bernier:
List the crafts mentioned in the passage. Compare these with the descriptions of artisanal activity in the chapter.
Discuss the extent to which Bernier’s accounts enables historians to reconstruct contemporary rural society.
Compare and contrast the perspectives from which Ibn Battuta and Bernier wrote their accounts of their travels in India.