The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The Mughal dynasty, established in India by Babur, had a dual lineage connecting two major ruling families of Central Asia. Their identity and political legitimacy were heavily influenced by their ancestry and the historical prestige associated with it.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct. From their mother’s side, the Mughals were descendants of Genghis Khan (died 1227), the Mongol ruler who ruled over parts of China and Central Asia. Babur’s mother, Qutlugh Nigar Khanum, was a direct descendant of Chagatai Khan, the second son of Genghis Khan.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect. From their father’s side, the Mughals were the successors of Timur (died 1404), the ruler of Iran, Iraq, and modern-day Turkey. Babur’s father, Umar Shaikh Mirza, was a Timurid prince. Shaibani Khan was an Uzbeg leader and a rival of Babur who defeated him in Central Asia; the Mughals were not his successors.
- Statement 3 is Correct. The Mughals did not like to be called Mughal or Mongol. This was because Genghis Khan’s memory was associated with the massacre of innumerable people. It was also linked with the Uzbegs, their Mongol competitors. Instead, the Mughals emphasized their Timurid ancestry because their great ancestor had captured Delhi in 1398.
Key Takeaway
The Mughals were
Timurids by patrilineal descent and
Mongols by matrilineal descent. They prided themselves on the former due to Timur's conquest of Delhi and disassociated from the latter due to the barbaric reputation of Genghis Khan.