The Indian subcontinent, often viewed as a self-contained world shaped by its mountains and seas, has a rich history of interaction with cultures from East and Southeast Asia, Europe, Africa, and notably, Central Asia and the Iranian plateau between the eleventh and eighteenth centuries. Richard M. Eaton's compelling narrative explores this dynamic history, focusing on the emergence of 'Persianate' culture—a diverse transregional phenomenon rooted in a canon of texts that spread across Asia. This culture, introduced to India by Afghan dynasties in the eleventh century, became deeply integrated into Indian society by the time of the great Mughals in the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries. The book examines the long-term processes of cultural interaction and assimilation evident in various aspects of life, including language, literature, cuisine, attire, religion, governance, warfare, science, art, music, and architecture. It highlights the intricate relationship between India's Sanskrit culture ('the Lotus') and Persian culture ('the Lion'), which significantly influenced the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and numerous regional states, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultural exchange that defined this era.
