Description
The Kidnapping of Amir Hamza (Hardcover): From the Mughal Manuscript Hamzanama
Retold by Mamta Dalal Mangaldas and Saker Mistri | Introduction by Milo C. Beach
Book Specifications:
- Category: Children’s Books / Art History & Epics
- Format: Hardcover (HC)
- Language: English
Publisher: Mapin Publishing (Assumed from series context)
The Kidnapping of Amir Hamza is an exciting, action-packed tale drawn from the Hamzanama, a legendary Persian epic. It was a beloved favorite of the great Mughal Emperor Akbar. In this beautifully crafted book, the master storyteller Darbar Khan from Akbar’s court narrates the episode of the kidnapping to the young emperor. He uses the lavishly illustrated Hamzanama—a monumental manuscript that took nearly 100 artists over 15 years to prepare for the king.
From his large box of paintings, taking one picture at a time, Darbar Khan begins the tale. The brave warrior Hamza, a protector of the good, is kidnapped from the shores of the Caspian Sea by the evil Shahrashob. He is paraded and held captive in the kingdom of his arch-enemy Malik Argus, the King of Takaw. This grand adventure takes readers across the seas, through bustling caravanserais, and into delightful gardens with chinar trees. Riding on boats, magical horses, and camels, the story recounts the thrilling events that lead to Hamza’s victory, aided by a colorful cast of characters—his loyal friend Umar, Mikhal the Champion, his brother Ayjil, his son Alamshah, and their friend Tul Mast.
Beyond the story, young enthusiasts of history and art are introduced to the fascinating creation of Mughal paintings. Through dedicated chapters like Akbar’s Painting Workshop and Ways of Seeing: Be an Art Detective, children learn how to appreciate and decode Mughal art. An insightful introduction by noted scholar Milo C. Beach provides historical context on young Akbar and his deep fascination for illustrated epics.
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Meet the Characters
- Akbar and the Storyteller
- The Kidnapping of Amir Hamza
- Akbar’s Painting Workshop
- Mughal Colour Palette
- Ways of Seeing: Be an Art Detective
- Illustration Credits and Bibliography
- Acknowledgements
About the Authors:
Mamta Dalal Mangaldas loves reading children’s books and understanding how children learn. She has extensively conducted museum workshops to introduce art to children.
Saker Mistri is a Speech Pathologist and Museum Educator. She spent 25 years living in the Middle East, Europe, South East Asia, and the US, where she developed engaging museum programmes for children and contributed to travel and art publications.
