Mirate Ahemadi Athva Gujaratno Itihas

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Mirate Ahemadi Athva Gujaratno Itihas" by Pathan Nizamkhan Nurkhan Vakil, based on the pages provided:

The text is a history of Gujarat titled "Mirate Ahemadi Athva Gujaratno Itihas" (Mirror of Ahmad, or History of Gujarat).

Author and Publisher:

• Author: Pathan Nizamkhan Nurkhan Vakil
• Publisher: Pathan Nizamkhan Nurkhan Vakil
• Publication Year/Context: The first edition (આવૃત્તી પહેલી) was published, priced at Rs. 5-0-0. The text mentions "પિોલિટિકલ ભેમીઓ ઉપરથી" which suggests a political or historical commentary. The year 1413 is mentioned on Page 1, though the publication itself is likely much later, indicated by the first edition mention.

Content Overview:

The text appears to be a translation and compilation of historical accounts, focusing on the history of Gujarat, particularly its Muslim rulers and significant events. It seems to be a rich source of genealogical information, historical timelines, and descriptions of the political landscape.

Key Sections and Information:

1. Introduction to the Shaikh Saheb of Mangrol (Pages 3-5 & 6-8):

   • Provides a biographical sketch of Shaikh Mohmad Jehangeermia Saheb, the present Shaikh of Mangrol. M G
   • Traces his lineage to the Siddiki family of Arabia, who arrived on the Kathiawar coast in the 14th century during the reign of Emperor Firoz Tughluk.
   • Details the history of Mangrol's possession by Muslim rulers, starting from Firoz Tughluk's general Ayazuddin bin Aram Shah. Shaikh Jalaluddin, an ancestor, was a legislator.
   • Mentions captures of Mangrol by Sultan Mohmad Begda (1531) and the appointment of a Fauzdar in 1592.
   • Highlights the independence secured by Shaikh Fakhruddin in 1727, leading to an oligarchy, and the proclamation of Shaikh Mia as the first Shaikh of Mangrol 22 years later.
   • The present Shaikh is the sixth successor of Shaikh Mia, who founded the principality.
   • The present Shaikh, born in 1860, is 53 years old, succeeded his brother in 1908. He was educated at Rajkumar College and entered the statutory civil service in Bombay Presidency, serving as an Assistant Collector at Ahmedabad.
   • His interest in Muslim education is noted, with donations and support for the Aligarh movement and the establishment of a Madrassa in Mangrol.
   • His administrative skills improved the state's financial condition, and he is described as a keen sportsman interested in Mechanical Science and possessing good social qualities.
   • His heir apparent, Kumar Shri Abdul Khalik, joined the Imperial Cadet Corps.

2. History of Gujarat and its Rulers (Pages 16-458):

   • Early History: Discusses the establishment of states in Gujarat and the founding of Patan city. Mentions the Rajput and Chawda rulers, followed by the Solanki and Vaghela dynasties, ruling for 575 years and 4 months through 20 kings.
   • Sultanate Period: Details the establishment of Islamic rule in Gujarat. Chronicles the reigns of various Sultans, starting from Sultan Muzaffar Shah, Sultan Kutbuddin, Sultan Daud, Sultan Mahmud Begda (referred to as the "Akbar of Gujarat"), and many subsequent rulers.
   • Mughal Rule: Mentions the transition to Mughal rule, covering the reigns of Akbar, Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb, and lists the various Subahs (governors) appointed during their times.
   • Detailed Accounts of Subahs and Events: The text provides extensive details about the appointments of governors (Subahs) and their tenure, along with significant events, battles, revenue figures, and administrative policies during various reigns. This forms the bulk of the historical narrative.
   • General Description of Gujarat: Includes geographical descriptions, noting its fertility, sandy soil, and agricultural produce, particularly millet. Mentions the quality of horses and cattle, the construction of houses, and the flourishing trade in ports like Cambay.
   • Economic and Social Aspects: Touches upon trade in textiles, salt, paper, sandalwood, and ivory. It also describes social aspects like the quality of paper from Ahmedabad and the construction of buildings.
   • Royal Edicts and Policies: Discusses various royal decrees, including those related to taxes (like Zakat), land revenue settlement (Raja Todar Mal's measurement), and social reforms (like the prohibition of alcohol and gambling).
   • Religious and Cultural Notes: Mentions the spread of Islam and the roles of religious figures like Sufis and scholars. It also touches upon the religious sentiments and conflicts of the time.
   • Chronological Information: The table of contents and the detailed narrative indicate a strong chronological approach, covering rulers from early times to the Mughal era and beyond, up to the time of its writing.

3. The Translator's Introduction and Background (Pages 9-13):

   • Provides a brief biographical account of the translator, Janab Nizamuddin Farooqui Chisti.
   • Details his ancestry, tracing it back to companions of the Prophet and influential saints.
   • Mentions his education and passing of examinations like Munshi and F.C.E.
   • Highlights his service in the Vadodara government and his subsequent transition to other fields before embarking on this translation.
   • Lists his other published works, showcasing his literary contributions.

4. Translator's Preface (Pages 14-19):

   • Discusses the importance of the "Mirate Ahemadi" as a historical text and its value in correcting misconceptions about Muslim rulers.
   • Emphasizes the need for historical accuracy and objectivity, criticizing scholars who might be driven by personal biases.
   • Highlights the administrative achievements of Muslim rulers, particularly their policies and contributions to the prosperity of Gujarat.
   • Addresses potential inaccuracies in original Persian manuscripts due to scribal errors and the challenges of translating a text with Arabic and Persian influences into Gujarati.

Overall Significance:

The "Mirate Ahemadi" appears to be a monumental historical work aiming to provide a comprehensive account of Gujarat's history, particularly focusing on the period of Muslim rule. It covers political events, administrative policies, economic conditions, and the lives of rulers and prominent figures. The detailed listing of Subahs and their tenures suggests a focus on the administrative structure under the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. The inclusion of the biography of the Shaikh of Mangrol and the translator's background indicates a connection to the Jain community and potentially a broader audience for this historical compilation.

The text highlights the author's commitment to presenting a factual history, while also acknowledging the complexities of translation and the potential for errors in original manuscripts. The detailed chronological account of rulers and events is a key feature of this work.