INTRODUCTION
The Kitab-ul-Hind, also known as the "Book of India," was written by the Persian historian and polymath Al-Biruni in the early 11th century. In the book, Al-Biruni provides a detailed description of the geography, culture, and society of the Indian subcontinent, including the region of Punjab. He writes about the various tribes and kingdoms that inhabited the region, as well as its customs, religions, and economic systems. Al-Biruni also provides accounts of the local agriculture, industry, and trade, and offers his observations on the people's physical appearance and character. Overall, the Kitab-ul-Hind offers valuable insights into the history and culture of the Indian subcontinent during the medieval period.
Here are some key points about Punjab as described in the Kitab-ul-Hind of Al-Biruni:
- SOCIAL LIFE OF PUNJAB: Hinduism society Qasim based on caste system. He mentioned four castes , the Brahmins, Kshatriyas, vaisya, shudras. All the classes differed from each other in terms of duty and hierarchy but lived in the same towns , villages. Marriages mainly took place at early ages while divorce system was unknown, Widows were not allowed to marry again. Marriages between blood relations were condemned. Marriage type was based on caste. One cannot marry the women of superior caste. Narrow mindedness was there among Hindus, they were proud of their country, kings, religion. Muslims were regarded as Impure and no love was between both communities.
- RELIGIOUS CONDITIONS: There was decline of culture in Punjab due to internal decay of character. They acted as dumb and silent against all atrocities against them. Hindus worshipped many gods. Idol worship was prevalent and numerous temples were prevalent all over India. Each caste has three different temples. AL beruni also mentioned four vedas. According to AL biruni India was a Brahmin country rather than buddhist. Buddhism lost much of its influence from punjab.
- POLITICAL CONDITION: India was divided into multiple states and were disunited among themselves. The major kingdoms were Kashmir, Malwa, Kannauj and Sind. He was against the plunder made by Mahmud Ghazni in India.
- CULTURAL CONDITIONS: AL Beruni praised Indian philosophy and religious texts such as Gita, vedas. He also described the Indian system of astronomy and astrology. Indian physicians studied anatomy and provided methods to cure medicines. Charak was regarded as the best writer in the context of medicine. AL beruni praised Indian mathematicians and their symbols, formulas and Discovery of zero. He also mentioned the theory of Aryabhatta. He also described that Rajput kings built beautiful baths, water channels for irrigation , temples etc. AL beruni also praised the literature of Hinduism.
- ECONOMIC CONDITIONS : AL Beruni described the taxation system of India. Taxes were mild. He stated that measurements of weights were different from place to place. According to AL Beruni Yojana is equal to 8 miles or 32000 yards. Weights were measured in Bharat and Palas. Punjab was a wealthy Region , individuals had gathered immense wealth. Due to immense wealth and treasures The Punjab was invaded by Mahmud Ghazni which was criticised by AL beruni.
CONCLUSION
AL Beruni's account is considered one of the important accounts to understand the clashes and growing hostility between Hindus and Muslims. His account is good for discussing Hindu religion. The book 'Kitab -Ul-Hind' is a gem which provides all insights into the life of Punjabi people. He made great contribution in adding important account for history.
BOOK REFRENCE ( CLICK TO BUY )
A History of India, Vol. I, Penguin Books, 1966 - Thapar, Romila