3) The Mughal style evolved as a result of a happy synthesis of the indigenous Indian style of painting and the Safavid school of Persian painting. It is primarily aristocratic and secular. Discuss. (250 Words)

Yes, it evolved as an indigenous style of painting because, of the following factors

1. The seat of Mughals was in Delhi. it was a secular seat away from the influence of any religious tone. Even Bhakti movements which evolved, were concentrated in southern india and northern india such as UP.

2. There were many branches of culture that originated from nearby delhi, like Mathura in UP, agra, bundelkhand etc. None had a religious overtone so much so that mughal style of painting also turned secular. 

3. Nadir Shah had invaded India from persia. And so, the culture from these different sections of the world inter mingled. Similarly, Ahmed Shah abdali also invaded Agra, Mathura. Hence it had aristocratic influence. 

4. Mughal rule was spread over almost whole of India, except, some of the southern states and north eastern states. So the mughal style of painting had elements from almost different corner of India. So, it was a happy synthesis of indigenous style of painting.

5. None of the other cultural elements was far more superior than mughal painting, so it remained an aristocratic influence.

*Bhakti movement was contemporary to Mughal rule. You are correct