Consider the following: The arrival of Babur into India led to the 1

Consider the following:
The arrival of Babur into India led to the

  • 1. introduction of gunpowder in the subcontinent
  • 2. introduction of the arch and dome in the region’s architecture
  • 3. establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1 and 2 only
3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2015
The arrival of Babur into India led to the introduction of a significant military application of gunpowder (artillery) and the establishment of the Timurid dynasty (Mughal dynasty) in the region. The introduction of the arch and dome occurred much earlier.
Let’s evaluate each statement:
1. **Introduction of gunpowder in the subcontinent:** While gunpowder technology existed in India before Babur, his invasion marked the effective introduction and large-scale use of sophisticated artillery and firearms in field warfare, which was crucial to his victories (e.g., Battle of Panipat). So, in the context of its impactful military deployment, this statement is considered true regarding Babur’s arrival.
2. **Introduction of the arch and dome in the region’s architecture:** Arches and domes were introduced to India much earlier with the arrival of the Delhi Sultanate in the late 12th/early 13th century. Examples can be seen in early Sultanate architecture. Babur and the Mughals refined these forms but did not introduce them. This statement is false.
3. **Establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region:** Babur was a descendant of Timur (Timurid) and Genghis Khan (Mongol/Chagatai). The dynasty he founded in India is known as the Mughal Dynasty, which was a branch of the Timurids who ruled Central Asia. His arrival directly led to the establishment of this dynasty in India. This statement is true.
Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are correct.
Babur’s victory at the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 against Ibrahim Lodi is considered the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India. His military tactics, including the use of field artillery and mobile cavalry, were significant innovations in Indian warfare at the time.