Ibn Battuta was a 14th-century Moroccan traveler and scholar who visited India during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq. His travel accounts offer valuable historical insights into medieval India.
1. Who was Ibn Battuta?
- Full Name: Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Battuta
- Born: 1304 CE in Tangier, Morocco
- Profession: Islamic scholar, traveler, and writer
- Famous Work: “Rihla” (The Travels of Ibn Battuta)
- Visited India: 1333–1347 CE during Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign
2. Ibn Battuta’s Visit to India
- Arrived in India in 1333 CE via Afghanistan.
- Met Muhammad bin Tughlaq, who appointed him as a Qazi (judge) in Delhi.
- Witnessed the harsh policies and eccentric rule of Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
- Sent as an envoy to China in 1341 CE but was attacked by pirates in the Indian Ocean.
- Left India around 1347 CE after traveling through various regions.
3. Ibn Battuta’s Observations on India
- Political: Muhammad bin Tughlaq was an intelligent but unpredictable ruler.
- Economic: India was a rich land with flourishing trade and agriculture.
- Social: Society was divided by caste, and there was luxurious lifestyle among the elite.
- Architecture: He admired the Qutub Minar, Alai Darwaza, and mosques in Delhi.
- Justice System: Described the harsh punishments given by the Sultan.
- Trade & Travel: India had a strong maritime trade network, especially in Gujarat.
4. Importance of Ibn Battuta’s Accounts
✅ Provides a detailed description of 14th-century India.
✅ Offers insights into Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s rule and policies.
✅ Highlights medieval trade, administration, and society.
✅ His book “Rihla” serves as a primary historical source.
5. MCQs on Ibn Battuta
- Which ruler was ruling India when Ibn Battuta visited?
- (a) Alauddin Khilji
- (b) Muhammad bin Tughlaq
- (c) Firoz Shah Tughlaq
- (d) Balban
- Answer: (b) Muhammad bin Tughlaq
- What was Ibn Battuta’s profession in India?
- (a) Military commander
- (b) Merchant
- (c) Judge (Qazi)
- (d) Architect
- Answer: (c) Judge (Qazi)
- Which book contains Ibn Battuta’s travel accounts?
- (a) Arthashastra
- (b) Ain-i-Akbari
- (c) Rihla
- (d) Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi
- Answer: (c) Rihla
- Which Indian city did Ibn Battuta describe as a major trade center?
- (a) Delhi
- (b) Agra
- (c) Surat
- (d) Gujarat
- Answer: (d) Gujarat
- Why was Ibn Battuta sent to China by Muhammad bin Tughlaq?
- (a) As a trader
- (b) As a religious preacher
- (c) As an envoy
- (d) As a military leader
- Answer: (c) As an envoy
This is a concise and exam-focused guide to Ibn Battuta’s visit to India. Let me know if you need a timeline or mind map! 🚀