Nababakhanakhanacaritam
By V. W. Karambelkar
Summary
The article introduces the Nababakhanakhanacaritam, a Sanskrit campu poem composed by Rudra Kavi in the early seventeenth century. It explains that little Sanskrit literature from the Mughal era survives and lists Rudra Kavi’s extant works, which include Rastraudharvamsi‑mahakavya, Dana‑sila‑caritam, Jahangiracaritam and Kirtisamullasa. The Nababakhanakhanacaritam celebrates Mirza Khan Abdur Rahim (Rahim Khan‑i‑Khanan), a son of Bairam Khan and a celebrated noble of the Mughal court. The poem is divided into three Ullasas: the first describes Khankhana’s ancestry and birth; the second praises his military and administrative achievements; and the third extols his virtues, learning and generosity. Written in ornate campu style with lengthy compounds and elaborate metaphors, the work resembles Bana’s Harsa‑carita and is more a panegyric than an objective historical account. The article cautions readers to treat its poetic hyperbole critically but notes that it reflects the values and court culture of the early seventeenth century.
Conclusion
By editing and analysing this largely unknown panegyric, the article draws attention to Sanskrit literature produced under Mughal patronage. While the Nababakhanakhanacaritam offers few concrete historical details, it illustrates how poets used sophisticated style to glorify their patrons. Researchers should therefore read it as a literary work that reveals contemporary ideals rather than a straightforward historical narrative.