Akbar awarded the title 'Zareen-i-Qalam' to

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Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:
Akbar, the great Mughal Emperor, was a patron of the arts, particularly calligraphy. The title 'Zareen-i-Qalam' translates to 'Golden Pen,' and it was bestowed upon Muhammad Hussain Kashmiri as a mark of exceptional recognition for his mastery of this art. Muhammad Hussain was one of the most celebrated calligraphers in the Mughal court, known for his elegant and skillful handwriting. His work contributed significantly to the decorative arts and manuscripts produced during Akbar's reign, earning him this prestigious title that placed him among the most honored artists of the empire.

The incorrect option is 2:
Todar Mal was a highly distinguished figure in Akbar’s court, but he was primarily known for his expertise in revenue administration, not calligraphy. He served as Akbar's finance minister (Diwan-i-Ashraf) and is famed for implementing the "Ain-i-Dahsala," a comprehensive land revenue system. His contributions were administrative and economic, not artistic, making the title 'Zareen-i-Qalam' unsuitable for him.

The incorrect option is 3:
Abdul Quadir, likely referring to Abdul Qadir Badauni, was a historian, translator, and courtier during Akbar's time. While he was a literary figure, he was mainly known for writing *Muntakhab-ut-Tawarikh*, a critical history of Akbar's reign, and for translating Sanskrit texts. He was not honored with the title 'Zareen-i-Qalam,' which was reserved for outstanding calligraphers.

The incorrect option is 4:
Sadullah Khan was a later Mughal nobleman who served as the Grand Vizier (Wazir) during the reign of Shah Jahan, Akbar's grandson. As he belonged to a different generation and was known for his political and administrative prowess, he was not the recipient of this artistic honor from Akbar.