Glimpses of Persian Literature

The relations between Iran and India go back to pre-historic age. The earliest relations between these countries can be traced back to the Indus valley civilization which remained the fountain head of many later ones, and these similarities are quite evident in the ancient languages like Avesta, Pahlavi and Old Persian.

Persian was the court language of India since the establishment of Muslim power at the end of 12th century A.D, while in the north-western region of the Indian sub-continent even earlier somewhere in the first half of the 11th century and continued to be the official language till 1835 A.D. when Lord William Bentinck of British company discontinued it as official language.

With the disintegration of central power there came into existence small, but powerful regional kingdoms like the Sultanate dynasty of Gujarat, Bahmani in the Deccan and the Sultans of Delhi etc., developed close contacts with Muslim countries particularly Persia which resulted in tremendous interest of literary and fine-arts' activities. During the Mughal rule this development of art, architecture and other different branches of learning reached its pinnacle in this soil.

Though today it has little communicational relevance in India, Persian has always remained an awe-inspiring language for the scholars; simply because it cherishes the richness of the past era in its varied forms of literature.

To be specific, Indian scholars, poets and writers have given it a glorious dimension by giving it a treatment that was garnished with the influence of the great culture that flourished here itself. It is for us to see how the language has emerged as an instance of grace, delicacy and sweetness. It is almost impeccable in having these characteristics, and thus, bears the stamp of being unique.

The richness and vitality of Indian culture was the result of a synthesis and friendly relations; and this aspect of culture is best illustrated in the meeting and mingling of two strongly developed and different cultures, as Indo-Iranians or Hindu and Muslim. Even the ravages of time could not at all lessen the deep bonds of affinity between the two cultures. As a matter of fact, it stands out as an unparalleled example hitherto.

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