Question

The imperial karkhanas

Bernier is perhaps the only historian who provides a detailed account of the working of the imperial karkhanas or workshops:

Large halls are seen at many places, called karkhanas or workshops for the artisans. In one hall, embroiderers are busily employed, superintended by a master. In another, you see the goldsmiths; in a third, painters; in a fourth, varnishers in lacquer-work; in a fifth, joiners, turners, tailors and shoe-makers; in a sixth, manufacturers of silk, brocade and fine muslins …

The artisans come every morning to their karkhanas where they remain employed the whole day; and in the evening return to their homes. In this quiet regular manner, their time glides away; no one aspiring for any improvement in the condition of life wherein he happens to be born.

How did the crafts in the karkhanas reflect the cultural diversity of the Mughal empire?

Hint:

Diverse crafts in karkhanas illustrate the multicultural composition of the Mughal empire.

Answer 1

The crafts in the karkhanas reflected the cultural diversity of the Mughal empire through the wide range of specialized artistic and utilitarian works. These included embroidery, painting, goldsmithing, lacquer work, and textile production. The presence of various skilled artisans indicates the coexistence and collaboration of different regional and cultural traditions, making the karkhanas a melting pot of the empire’s multicultural identity.