Amir Khusro’s Musical Knowledge and the Debates Surrounding His Stay in Multan: A Research and Critical Study

Abstract

Amir Khusro occupies a significant position in the literary, cultural, and musical history of the Indian subcontinent. This research article, titled “Amir Khusro’s Musical Knowledge and the Debates Surrounding His Stay in Multan: A Research and Critical Study,” examines his contribution to Indian music, particularly his association with qawwali, tarana, qaul, qalbana, khayal, ragas, and various musical traditions. The study distinguishes between historical evidence, traditional narratives, and later scholarly interpretations concerning these contributions. It also explores the relationship between Khusro’s poetry, music, and Sufi thought. The article further focuses on Khusro’s approximately five-year stay in Multan during the period of Prince Muhammad, son of Sultan Ghiyasuddin Balban. Multan’s literary, cultural, political, and Sufi environment and its influence on Khusro are discussed, along with the Mongol attack, the death of Prince Muhammad, and Khusro’s captivity. The study concludes that Khusro’s musical significance is best understood through his creative synthesis of Indian and Persian traditions rather than by attributing every musical innovation solely to him. His association with Multan also highlights the close relationship between literature, music, Sufism, and cultural exchange in medieval India.