With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta’ refers to. (UPSC, 2016)
✓ Correct answer: c) Waterwheel used for the irrigation of land
ExplanationAns: C Exp: Araghatta/Persian Wheel: The ‘Persian Wheel’ has been referred to as Araghatta in ancient Sanskrit writings.The term "ara-ghatta" derives from the words "ara," which means "spoke," and "ghatta," which means "pot." There is evidence to support the theory that India was the origin of this method of drawing water from open wells.It is referred to as the "cakka-vattakka" or the "ghati yantra" in the Panchatantra (3rd century BCE) and the Rajatarangini (12th century CE).In the twelfth century, this term, also known as the "Araghattikka" or "arahattiyanara," was frequently used to refer to a person or animal working the Araghatta.The Persian wheel is a water-lifting device used usually by draft animals, like bulls, buffaloes, or camels.Baburnama provides a comprehensive explanation and a picture of the Persian Wheel which was in use in the Punjab province.
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