Plays from 11th–13th centuries found at Bhojshala:History of Parmar kings recorded on 106 pillars; Muslim rule also mentioned

An archaeological survey report on Bhojshala in Dhar, has been submitted to the High Court, revealing significant historical findings about the site’s architecture and inscriptions. According to the report by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the complex contains 106 pillars featuring different carvings and designs. A total of 32 inscriptions have also been found, many of which date from the 10th to 13th centuries. Understand the information related to the Bhojshala complex in pictures Evidence from the Parmar period The inscriptions include references to the rule of King Bhoj and King Arjun Varman of the Parmar dynasty. Some writings mention the plays Parijala Manjari Natika and Vijayashri, believed to have been composed by Madan, the royal teacher (Rajguru) during Arjun Varman’s reign. Portions of these plays are engraved on stone slabs within the complex. These findings suggest that Bhojshala was not only an architectural structure but also an important cultural and literary centre during the Parmar period. References to Muslim rule Some inscriptions from the 14th century refer to the arrival of Muslims in the Malwa region and the establishment of Muslim rule. Historical records mention that in 1389 CE, Dilawar Khan (originally named Husain) was appointed Governor of Malwa by the Delhi Sultanate. He later declared independence, made Dhar his capital, and in 1401 CE assumed royal authority to rule independently. Experts believe these findings may lead to further historical and legal discussions. Arabic and Persian inscriptions The survey also documented 56 Arabic and Persian inscriptions found at the Kamal Maula Mosque and the tomb within the complex. Of these, 43 inscriptions are written in ink and record details about visitors to the site. Some inscriptions contain Islamic teachings, prayers, and descriptions of the attributes of God. Others include Persian poetry and names of individuals. These inscriptions provide important information about the Muslim history of Malwa and Dhar’s role as a political and cultural centre during that period. Quranic verses and later constructions The ASI report states that Quranic verses were found inscribed inside the tomb complex of Kamal Maula. These verses focus on monotheism and the qualities of God. One inscription (AP-48) is linked to Sultan Mahmud Shah I of Malwa, also known as Alauddin Mahmud Shah. It records that in 1456–57 CE (Hijri 861), he ordered the construction of several structures within the complex, including a gallery, courtyard, dome, stone lattice screens, chambers, a well, and other architectural elements.
Another inscription dated 1461–62 CE (Hijri 866) was commissioned by Habib al-Hafiz al-Shirazi al-Murshidi. Three inscriptions (AP-01, AP-02 and AP-03) contain verses from the Quran. One of them includes part of Chapter 51, Verse 55. These inscriptions indicate that parts of the structure functioned as an Islamic religious and cultural centre, possibly also serving as a place for learning and trade.