In medieval India, the term `Fanam` referred to :

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Q: 52 (IAS/2022)
In medieval India, the term 'Fanam' referred to :

question_subject: 

History

question_exam: 

IAS

stats: 

0,231,63,36,231,21,6

keywords: 

{'medieval india': [0, 0, 1, 3], 'fanam': [0, 0, 0, 1], 'ornaments': [0, 0, 0, 3], 'term': [28, 1, 9, 27], 'coins': [2, 0, 1, 1], 'clothing': [0, 1, 0, 2], 'weapons': [0, 1, 1, 1]}

The correct answer is coins.

Explanation: In medieval India, the term 'Fanam' referred to a type of coin. The term was commonly used in South India, particularly in the regions of present-day Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The Fanam was usually made of gold and was used as a currency for trade and commerce. It was also used as a measure of value for land and other assets.

Things to know:

  • The use of coins as a form of currency can be traced back to ancient India, with the earliest coins being made of silver and copper.
  • The term 'Fanam' is believed to have originated from the Arabic word 'Fana', which means to perish or disappear, possibly because coins were often lost or destroyed over time.
  • Other types of coins used in medieval India include the Tanka, Jital, and Paisa, among others.

 

Preparing for Future Exams: Learning from the Analysis of Past Questions

Concepts to be studied:

  • Medieval Indian economy
  • Trade and commerce in medieval India
  • Currency and coinage
  • Economic and social history of medieval India

Sources:

  • NCERT textbooks for Indian History for Class 7 and 8
  • Reference book: "The Wonder that was India" by A.L. Basham
  • Online resources such as the National Museum of India website and the Indian Numismatics website

NCERT textbook chapters:

  • Class 7: Our Pasts II - Chapter 2 on New Kings and Kingdoms
  • Class 8: Our Pasts III - Chapter 2 on From Trade to Territory: The Company Establishes Power

Reference book chapters:

  • "The Wonder that was India" by A.L. Basham - Chapter 7 on Economic Life

Related concepts:

  • Medieval Indian society and culture
  • Art and architecture of medieval India
  • Agrarian and industrial production in medieval India
  • International trade and its impact on medieval India

In addition, it would be helpful to study the various coins and currencies that were used in medieval India, and their evolution over time. It would also be useful to examine the role of trade and commerce in the development of medieval Indian economy and society.

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