The Names of India Under the Mughal Empire: Hind, Hindus, and Hindustan

India, a land with a rich and diverse history, has been known by various names throughout different periods in its history. The Mughal Empire, which ruled significant portions of the Indian subcontinent from the early 16th to the mid-19th centuries, had its own terminology for this vast land. Three prominent terms—Hind, Hindu, and Hindustan—were widely used during this era. This article delves into the origins and meanings of these names, providing a deeper understanding of how the Mughal rulers identified and referred to the regions and peoples they governed.

Origins and Meanings of 'Hind'

The Mughal Empire utilized the term 'Hind' to refer to regions around the river Sindhu/Indus. This term has roots in the ancient Sanskrit language, where 'Hind' or 'Hindu' denoted the lands along the Indus River. The river played a crucial role in the early civilization of the Indian subcontinent and was the geographical and cultural boundary for the ancient inhabitants of the region.

Hind in the Mughal context was not merely a geographical term but also carried socio-cultural and religious connotations. Before the Mughal arrival, 'Hindu' was primarily used to denote the pantheistic religion predominant in the Indo-gangetic plains. This religion, characterized by a belief in the Brahman as the supreme reality and the existence of numerous gods, was the dominant faith of the people living in these regions.

The Emergence of 'Hindustan'

As the Mughals expanded their rule, they began to use the term 'Hindustan' to refer to a larger region beyond just the Indus Valley. The term 'Hindustan' was derived from 'Hindu sthan,' where 'sthan' in Sanskrit means 'land' or 'place.' This broader term encompassed the land of the Hindus, as well as the vast territories where Hindu culture and people predominated.

For the Mughal rulers, Hindustan was not only a geographical label but also a cultural and political identifier. The term reflected the shift in their administrative approach, which extended beyond the initial focus on the Indus Valley. In the eyes of the Mughals, Hindustan was a land where they wielded significant power and influence over a diverse range of peoples and religions, including Muslims, Hindus, and others.

The Term 'Sarzameen-e-Hind'

A closely related term used by the Mughals was 'Sarzameen-e-Hind' (Sarzameen of India). This was a formal title often used to denote the vast territories under Mughal control in India. The term 'Sarzameen' in Persian means 'total land' or 'complete territory,' emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the Mughal Empire's dominion.

Interestingly, the term 'Sarzameen-e-Hind' was used alongside 'Hindustan' to describe the lands and people under Mughal rule. It provided a more official and ceremonial label, often used in the context of governance and administrative communications. This dual terminology reflected the complex nature of Mughal rule, where there was a blend of local customs and centralized imperial control.

Conclusion: The Conceptual Evolution in Mughal Terminology

The Mughal Empire's use of the terms 'Hind,' 'Hindustan,' and 'Sarzameen-e-Hind' reflects the evolving conceptualization of India under their rule. From the initial focus on the Indus Valley region, the terms expanded to encompass a broader geographical and cultural representation of the land. These names were not just administrative labels but also conveyed the socio-political landscape of the era.

The study of these terms provides valuable insights into the historical relationships and power dynamics between the Mughal rulers and the diverse populations they governed. Understanding these terminologies not only enriches our knowledge of historical nomenclature but also deepens our appreciation for the complexity of history.