Question

Which term did Indo-Persian sources of the Mughal period use to denote peasants?

• A. Ryot
• B. Muzarian
• C. Asami
• D. All of these

Hint:

In Mughal agrarian records, peasants were called Ryots, Muzarians, or Asamis — showing the diversity of agrarian classifications.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Mughal agrarian structure.
During the Mughal period, the peasantry formed the backbone of the agrarian economy. Various terms were used in Indo-Persian sources to describe them.
Step 2: Terms used.
- Ryot: A general Persian term used for peasants.
- Muzarian: Used for sharecroppers or tenant cultivators.
- Asami: Another term denoting peasants or cultivators.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Since all these terms (Ryot, Muzarian, Asami) were used, the correct answer is “All of these.”