Question

Analyse the observations, critical insights and reflections provided by Bernier while he travelled in Mughal India.

Answer 1

François Bernier was a French physician and traveller who visited India during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17\textsuperscript{th} century. His account, \textit{Travels in the Mughal Empire}, provides a detailed and often critical picture of Mughal society, economy, and administration.

Perception of Despotism: Bernier described the Mughal Empire as a despotic monarchy, where the emperor held absolute power and the nobility was dependent on his favor. He believed this weakened private property and individual initiative.

Lack of Private Property: Bernier criticized the absence of a landed aristocracy owning hereditary property. He argued that constant transfers of jagirs prevented long-term agricultural investments.

Stagnant Economy: He believed India’s economy was backward and hindered by state interference. According to him, artisans and peasants were oppressed, and there was little innovation.

Cultural Observations: Bernier wrote about Indian society's religious diversity, caste system, education, and the role of women. His views, however, were colored by European superiority.

Comparative Lens: Bernier often contrasted Mughal India unfavorably with contemporary Europe, particularly France, promoting European models as more progressive. While insightful, Bernier's account was also shaped by his Eurocentric views and the colonial agenda of portraying India as inferior.