Marvels of Indian Iron Through the Ages by R. Balasubramaniam

Author:R. Balasubramaniam [Balasubramaniam, R.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9788194689201
Publisher: Infinity Foundation
Published: 2020-11-12T00:00:00+00:00

Developments in Cannon Casting

The destructive power of cast bronze cannons was clearly established in the Indian subcontinent by Babur, although cannons were introduced earlier. The developments in cast bronze cannon technology in the early sixteenth century appear to have been drastic as the distance travelled by mortar increased from about 1200 metres in 1527 (time of Babur) to about 5500 metres in 1540 (time of Humayun) (Khan 2004b: 91-127). There were several innovations affected by Sher Shah Suri, who deposed Humayun and ruled India for a short period. It is clear that he paid considerable attention to the use of gunpowder and was more interested in smaller arms than large massive cannons. Some of his earliest small sized cannons are known (Datta 1968,1969,1972). A typical light cannon of Sher Shah Suri is seen in Figure 3.4. These smaller cannons were put to effective use, both for waging offensive field battles and for defending fortifications.

Artillery progressed further under Akbar's (1556-1605) rule. It attained greater efficiency, and several innovations were affected. Cannons are depicted in several miniature paintings in Akbarnama . One painting showing cannons used in the siege of Ranthambore is seen in Figure 3.6. There is mention of one Fathullah Shirazi, one of the jewels of Akbar's court, who joined the court in CE 1583. Innovations carried out by Fathullah Shirazi included a machine for cleansing gun barrels, a portable cannon and a multi-barrel cannon (Alvi and Rahman 1968: 4-13). Jahangir inherited efficient artillery from Akbar, and there were not many improvements implemented by him.

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