UPSC CSE Prelims 1996
Nastaliq is a highly elegant and cursive calligraphic script of Persian origin. It flourished in medieval India, particularly during the Mughal period, becoming a dominant script for writing Persian and Urdu. It was extensively used in official documents, manuscripts, and inscriptions, known for its flowing, slanted style.
Option 2 is incorrect because Nastaliq refers to a script, not a musical composition or raga. Tansen was a renowned musician in Akbar's court, but Nastaliq is unrelated to music.
Option 3 is incorrect as Nastaliq was not a form of tax or cess. Cesses were specific levies imposed by rulers, whereas Nastaliq was a writing style.
Option 4 is incorrect because Nastaliq was a script, not a manual or code of conduct. Codes of conduct for Ulemas (Islamic scholars) would typically be religious or legal texts, not a calligraphic style.