Ibn Battuta’s Rihla – Account of India
Background
Full Name: Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Battuta.
Origin: Tangier, Morocco.
Visit to India: 1333–1347 CE (during the reign of Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq of Delhi).
Work: Rihla (meaning “The Journey”), dictated later in Morocco, describes his travels across Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, India, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, China, and more.
His Indian experiences occupy a significant portion of Rihla.
Arrival in India
Arrived via the west coast of India, entering through present-day Gujarat.
Primary reason for coming: sought employment under the Delhi Sultanate, which was known for welcoming foreign scholars and officials.
Was appointed Qazi (chief judge) by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq because of his Islamic legal training and foreign prestige.
Description of the Delhi Sultanate
Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq portrayed as intelligent, generous, and ambitious, but also unpredictable and harsh.
Ibn Battuta admired his vast empire, which stretched across most of the Indian subcontinent, but also criticized his cruelty and impulsive punishments.
Recorded incidents of lavish gifts from the Sultan to scholars and officials, as well as severe executions and confiscations.
Society and Culture
Religious life: Detailed observations of Islam in India, coexistence with Hindus, and the presence of Sufi saints.
Urban life: Delhi described as vast, prosperous, and cosmopolitan, with markets full of goods from across Asia and Africa.
Architecture: Admired mosques, palaces, gardens, and fortifications; noted use of stone and intricate carvings.
Festivals: Mentioned grand public ceremonies, Islamic religious events, and Hindu festivals he witnessed.
Economic Life
Trade: India was deeply connected to global trade networks via ports like Cambay (Khambhat) and Calicut.
Wealth: He marveled at the abundance of gold, textiles (especially silk and cotton), and spices.
Currency: Used copper and silver coins; gold dinars for large transactions.
Journey Beyond Delhi
Malabar Coast: Described Calicut as a major trade hub, with Arab, Chinese, and African merchants.
Maldives: Served as a judge for 18 months; described the matrilineal society, coconut-based economy, and local customs.
Sri Lanka: Visited Adam’s Peak, a sacred site for multiple religions.
Political Turmoil & Adventures
Witnessed rebellions and instability in Muhammad bin Tughluq’s reign.
Was once imprisoned due to court intrigues.
Sent as an envoy to China, traveling via the Malabar Coast and Maldives, but the mission faced piracy and shipwreck.
Historical Value of Rihla
Unique perspective: Offers a foreigner’s detailed view of 14th-century India.
Cultural insights: Records food habits, dress, marriage customs, legal practices, and religious diversity.
Limitations: Contains exaggerations and personal biases, especially when portraying rulers.
Importance for history: One of the most valuable non-Indian sources for the Delhi Sultanate period.
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