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Medieval History

Lecture – 08
Akbar to Aurangjeb

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Akbar to Aurangjeb
Jalaluddin Muhammad Akbar:-

❖ Mughal emperor Jalaluddin Muhammad Akbar is widely regarded as one of the

greatest rulers in Indian history.

❖ Jalaluddin Muhammad Akbar was born on 15 October 1542 in the fort of

Amrakot, which was then under the rule of Rana Veersal.

❖ Father:- Humayun

❖ Mother:- Hamida Banu Begum

❖ Akbar's primary teacher was Abdul Latif, who imparted Akbar basic education.

❖ During his early years, Akbar was under the tutelage of Bairam Khan, a loyal and
powerful military commander of the Mughal Empire.

❖ At the time of Humayun's death in 1556, Akbar was in Kalanaur.

❖ Akbar was formally crowned as the emperor on 14 February 1556 in Kalanaur,

Punjab. This event marked the beginning of his reign over the Mughal Empire.

Akbar's period can be divided into three parts:-

1. Period of tutelage of Bairam Khan (1556-1560)

Second Battle of Panipat (5 November 1556):-

➢ After the death of Humayun, Akbar, who was still a minor, was under the
tutelage and regency of Bairam Khan, a loyal general of the Mughal Empire.
This period was important for consolidating Mughal rule in India, especially
because of the challenges posed by rivals.

Hemu and Capture of Delhi:-

➢ Hemu, who was originally a salt merchant in Rewari, Haryana, rose to

prominence as the prime minister of Adil Shah Suri. He was an able military
leader and administrator.

➢ Capture of Delhi:- After the death of Humayun, Hemu captured Delhi. He

defeated the Mughal forces and declared himself the ruler of Delhi and took the
royal title of Vikramaditya. Hemu's rise was important because he was the last
Hindu ruler to occupy the throne of Delhi before the consolidation of Mughal
power under Akbar.

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Second Battle of Panipat:-

➢ Conflict:- The second battle of Panipat was fought between Mughal forces led by
Bairam Khan and Hemu, with the young Akbar nominally in charge.

➢ Result:- Despite initial successes, Hemu was hit by an arrow in the eye and was
eventually captured. The Mughal forces were victorious and regained control
over Delhi and Agra. The battle was significant in consolidating Akbar's rule and
marked the end of the Sur dynasty's challenge to Mughal supremacy.

Fall of Bairam Khan:-

➢ After a period of successful regency, Bairam Khan's influence began to wane due
to various political intrigues and the young Akbar's growing desire to assert his
independence.

Defeat and arrest:-

➢ Bairam Khan was eventually defeated and taken into custody. Recognizing his
past loyalty and contributions, Akbar gave him three options for his future:-
1. Subedar of Kalpi and Chanderi:- Bairam Khan could rule the areas of Kalpi
and Chanderi and maintain a position of significant authority.

2. Personal Advisor:- He could serve as Akbar's personal advisor, staying close

to the emperor and influencing decisions.

3. Pilgrimage to Hajj:- He could choose to go on a pilgrimage to Hajj and thus

retire from political life.
Journey to Hajj and Death:-

➢ Bairam Khan chose the third option and embarked on a pilgrimage to Hajj.
However, during his journey, he was killed by Mubarak Khan in Patan, Gujarat
in 1561. This murder was probably motivated by personal vengeance or political
conspiracies.
Bairam Khan's Family after His Death:-

Salima Begum:-
➢ Bairam Khan's wife, Salima Begum, was a distinguished and influential person.
After Bairam Khan's death, she married Akbar, becoming one of his senior
wives. This marriage strengthened Akbar's ties with Bairam Khan's family and
maintained loyalty within the Mughal nobility.

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Abdur Rahim:-
➢ Bairam Khan's son, Abdur Rahim, was a young boy at the time of his father's
death. Recognizing his ability and to honour Bairam Khan's legacy, Akbar gave
Abdur Rahim the title of "Khan-i-Khana". Abdur Rahim later became a
prominent poet, scholar and one of Akbar's trusted nobles. His contributions to
literature and administration were significant during Akbar's reign.
2. Purdah rule / Zanana rule - 1560-64:
➢ The Purdah Rule, also known as the Zanana Rule or the Rule of Haram, was a
period in the early reign of Akbar (1560-1564).
➢ This rule was influenced by Maham Anga Akbar's foster mother and his son
Adham Khan who was an ambitious military commander who sought to expand
his power within the Mughal court.
3. Independent rule - 1564-1605
Expansion of Akbar’s empire:-

Region Led by

Malwa Adham Khan

Chunar Adham Khan

Gondwana of Rani Durgawati Asaf Khan

Amer of ruler Bharmal Surrendered without any fight.

Kandhar Surrendered without any fight.

Marwar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer Surrendered without any fight.

Khandesh Surrendered without any fight.

Merta Sarfuddin

Mewar Akbar

Sindh Abdur Rahim

Odisha Mansingh

Khandesh Akbar

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Gujrat Akbar

Bihar, ruler was Daud Khan Akbar

Kalinjar Majnu Khan

Ranthambore Akbar+Bhagwandas

Ahmednagar Shahjahan

Bijapur Auranzeb

Golconda Auranzeb

Conquest of Asirgarh (1601):-

❖ The conquest of Asirgarh in 1601 was Akbar's last significant military victory.
❖ Akbar successfully captured the fort of Asirgarh through a combination of
military strategy and diplomacy.
❖ Asirgarh was called the "key to the Deccan". This campaign was won by Akbar
using bribery.
❖ This victory marked the culmination of Akbar's efforts to consolidate Mughal
control over the Deccan region.
Religious policy of Akbar:-
❖ Mughal emperor Akbar is famous for his unprecedented policies, he promoted
religious tolerance and harmony.
Early measures (1562-1564):-
❖ 1562: Abolition of slavery:- Akbar abolished the practice of slavery,
demonstrating his commitment to justice and equality.
❖ 1563: Abolition of pilgrimage tax:- He removed the tax imposed on Hindus
making pilgrimages to holy sites.
❖ 1564: Abolition of Jizya tax:- It was a discriminatory tax imposed on non-
Muslims living under Muslim rule. The abolition of Jizya by Akbar signalled a
shift towards a more inclusive and equitable system.
Open Dialogue and Exploration (1575):-
❖ 1575: Establishment of Ibadat Khana in Fatehpur Sikri:- Akbar built a "house of
worship" where scholars from different faiths could engage in open discussion
and debate. This initiative reflected Akbar's encouragement of interfaith dialogue
and understanding.

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Declaration of Mahzar and Din-i-Ilahi (1579-1583):-

❖ 1579: Declaration of Mahzar:- Akbar reportedly signed a document distancing
himself from orthodox Islam, possibly reflecting his growing openness to other
religions. Akbar became 'Imam-i-Adil'.
❖ 1582: Declaration of Din-e-Ilahi:- Akbar launched Din-e-Ilahi, which aimed to
combine elements of Hinduism, Islam, Zoroastrianism and Christianity.
However, it did not gain widespread acceptance. The head priest of Din-e-Ilahi
was Abul Fazl.
❖ 1583: Introduction of Ilahi Samvat:- Akbar introduced a new calendar era, Ilahi
Samvat, which marked his departure from strict Islamic traditions.
Religious interactions:-
❖ Meeting with Guru Amar Das:- Akbar's meeting with Amar Das, the third Sikh
guru, highlights his openness to different religions.
❖ Land donation:- His donation of land to the daughter of Guru Amar Das
demonstrates his respect for Sikhism.
❖ Jagir donation:- Gifts of jagirs (land grants) to Vithalnath, a Hindu saint, and
Jain Acharya Harvijay Suri, further illustrate his policy of religious tolerance.
Administrative System:-
❖ Ain-i-Dahsala:- The implementation of the Ain-i-Dahsala revenue system,
developed with the help of Todar Mal, marked an important administrative
reform. It ensured fairer and more efficient tax collection, strengthening the
Mughal economy.
Architecture of Fatehpur Sikri:-
❖ The construction of magnificent buildings at Fatehpur Sikri, including the
Buland Darwaza ("Gate of Generosity"), the palaces of Birbal, Jahangir and
himself, the Jama Masjid (the main mosque), the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti,
and the Panch Mahal, demonstrate Akbar's artistic vision and his desire to
create a grand capital city.
Construction of the Tomb:-
❖ Akbar's decision to begin the construction of his mausoleum at Sikandra reflects
his focus on planning for the future.

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Nine gems of Akbar's court:-

1. Birbal (Mahesh Das):-

➢ Akbar called him Kaviraj.

➢ He was a wise advisor and a close confidant of Akbar. He was famous for his
clever solutions and witty remarks.

➢ He died tragically in a battle against the Yusufzai tribe.

2. Abul Fazal:-

➢ He was the author of "Akbarnama" which describes the reign of Akbar.

➢ He was probably murdered by Veer Singh Bundela at the behest of Akbar's son
Jahangir.

3. Todar Mal:-

➢ He introduced the innovative revenue assessment system known as "Ain-i-

Dahsala" to improve tax collection and administration.

➢ His reforms laid the foundation of a strong Mughal economy.

4. Tansen:-

➢ Full name:- Ram Tanu Pandey

➢ He was a great musician and initially worked in the court of Raja Ramchandra
of Rewa.

➢ Achievements: Akbar gave him the title of "Kanthabharan Vani Vilas" (meaning
"voice that enchants the world").

➢ The famous musician Haridas was the teacher of Tansen.

➢ Spiritual guide:- Hazrat Mian Mohammad Gaus

5. Faizi:-

➢ He was the brother of Abul Fazal.

➢ He was a scholar, poet and translator.

➢ He assisted Abul Fazal in writing Akbarnama.

6. Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khana:-

➢ He was a military leader, administrator and poet.

➢ Akbar gave him the prestigious title of "Khan-i-Khana".

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7. Mullah Do-Piyaza:-

➢ He was an enigmatic person.

➢ He was a jester or wise advisor known for his witty remarks and riddles.

➢ There is limited historical information about him.

8. Raja Man Singh:-

➢ He was a distinguished military commander who led successful campaigns for

Akbar, expanding the Mughal Empire.

9. Hakim Humam:-

➢ Hakim Humam served as Akbar's personal physician.

Jahangir (1605-1627):-

❖ Jahangir was the fourth emperor of the Mughal Empire, who ruled from 1605 to
1627.

❖ Childhood Name:- Jahangir's childhood name was Salim.

❖ Birth Mystery:- It is believed that he was born with the blessings of a Sufi saint
named Sheikh Salim Chishti.

❖ Jahangir was loved immensely by his father, Emperor Akbar. Akbar used to call him
"Shekhu Baba".

❖ Coronation Name:- When Jahangir ascended the throne in 1605, he was given the
title of "Jahangir", which means "Conqueror of the World". This royal title reflects
the grandeur and expanse of his reign.

❖ Marriage and Children:- Jahangir had several marriages, of which two were the
most important.

➢ First Wife: Manbai:- She was the sister of Man Singh. This gave birth to
Jahangir's son Khusro. Khusro is later known for rebelling against Jahangir.

➢ Second wife: Jodha Bai:- She gave birth to Jahangir's most famous son, Shah
Jahan. Shah Jahan later became the fifth emperor of the Mughal Empire.

Beginning of Jahangir's reign:-

❖ When Jahangir ascended the throne, he issued 12 state orders which came to be
known as "Ain-e-Jahangiri". The purpose of these orders was to reform society and
strengthen the system of justice. Following are his major orders:-

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1. Ban on killing of animals on Sundays and Thursdays:- Jahangir announced that

animals would not be slaughtered on Sundays and Thursdays. This order was
issued for religious and moral reasons, so that these days could be kept sacred
and peaceful.
2. Establishment of the Chain of Justice:- Jahangir established the Chain of Justice
on the banks of the Yamuna River. The purpose of this chain was that any
person could convey his complaints directly to the king. This chain was a system
of ringing a big bell, so that the king could be informed immediately and justice
could be given.
3. Ban on Tobacco:- Jahangir banned the use of tobacco. At that time the use of
tobacco was increasing rapidly and Jahangir banned it, considering it harmful
from a health and social point of view. These orders laid the foundation for
reform and progress during Jahangir's reign, improving the justice system and
promoting morality and righteousness in society.
Major events of Jahangir's reign:-
1. Khusro's Rebellion (1606):-
➢ Jahangir's eldest son, Khusro, rebelled against his father in 1606.
➢ During the rebellion, Khusro fled to Punjab and met Guru Arjan Dev. The
purpose of this meeting is not clear. Some historians believe that Guru Arjan Dev
supported Khusro, while others believe that he prevented him from rebelling.
➢ Khusro was defeated in the Battle of Bhairowal near Jalandhar. He was taken
prisoner and later blinded on Jahangir's orders.
➢ In 1622, Khusro was murdered by his brother Khurram.
2. Kandahar slips out of the hands of the Mughals:-
➢ The Mughals suffered a major setback during Jahangir's reign when the
important trading centre Kandahar fell under the Safavid Empire.
➢ Jahangir's attempts to recapture Kandahar failed.
3. Treaty with Mewar:-
➢ Jahangir entered into a treaty with Amar Singh, son of Rana Pratap, the powerful
Rajput ruler of Mewar. Under this treaty, Amar Singh accepted Mughal suzerainty
and appeared in Jahangir's court. Jahangir failed to achieve complete victory over
Mewar, but this treaty was a diplomatic success for the Mughals.

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4. Ahmednagar Campaign:-
➢ The Ahmednagar Sultanate located in South India remained a challenge for the
Mughals. Jahangir launched several campaigns to conquer Ahmednagar.
However, he did not achieve decisive success. It was during these campaigns that
Jahangir's son, Khusro, rebelled against him. After conquering Ahmednagar,
Jahangir gave the title of Shahjahan to Khurram.
5. Conquest of Kangra:-
➢ The Kangra Fort located in Punjab was a cause of trouble for the Mughals.
Jahangir conquered the Kangra Fort in 1615. This was an important military
victory for the Mughals, which gave them strong control over the Punjab region.
Jahangir and Nur Jahan:-
➢ An important feature of the reign of Jahangir (1605-1627) was his wife, Nur
Jahan Begum.
✓ Real name:- Her real name was Mehrunnisa. Her father's name was Mirza
Ghiyas Beg and brother's name was Asaf Khan. Her first husband's name
was Ali Quli Beg.
✓ Marriage to Jahangir:- Nur Jahan married Jahangir in 1611. After
marriage she was given the title of "Nur Jahan" (Noor of the World) and
"Noor Mahal" (Noor of the Palace).
✓ Political influence:- Nur Jahan was an intelligent and ambitious woman. She
exerted a deep influence on Jahangir and played an active role in the affairs
of the court. She held appointments to many important positions and was
involved in the administration of the empire.
✓ Family relations:- Asaf Khan's daughter, Arjumand Banu Begum was
married to Jahangir's son Khurram who later came to be known as Mumtaz.
Nur Jahan got her daughter Ladli Begum married to Jahangir's second son
and Shah Jahan's brother Shahriyar.
6. Rebellion of Khurram (Shah Jahan):-
➢ Of Jahangir's four sons, Khurram was promised the heir. However, Jahangir
started changing his decisions under the influence of his wife Nur Jahan Begum.
This made Khurram dissatisfied and he revolted in 1623. Jahangir was
successful in suppressing the revolt, but the incident indicated future instability
in the empire.

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7. Rebellion of Mahavat Khan:-

➢ The Mughal chieftain Mahavat Khan revolted against Jahangir in 1626 and was
put under house arrest along with Nur Jahan. But the revolt was eventually
controlled by Nur Jahan's cunning.
Painting of Jahangir period:-
➢ Jahangir's period is known as the golden age for painting. However, Jahangir
himself was not a painter.
➢ He was a writer and wrote his autobiography "Tuzuk-e-Jahangiri" in Persian. It
was similar to Babur's autobiography "Tuzuk-e-Baabri", which was written in
Turkish language.
Painters of Jahangir's court:-
➢ Jahangir's court had many talented painters, who took Mughal painting to new
heights. Two of these prominent painters are as follows:-
✓ Abul Hasan:- He was honoured by Jahangir with the title of "Nadir-ul-
Zaman" (Wonder of the Age). Abul Hasan was known for nature depiction
and realistic style.
✓ Mansarovar:- He was given the title of "Nadir-ul-Asr" (Wonder of the Time).
Mansovar was especially adept at depicting animals, birds and plants. His
artworks were extremely subtle and realistic.
Jahangir and European traders and travellers:-
➢ During Jahangir's reign, the number of European traders and travellers visiting
India increased. Some of the prominent people among them were as follows:-
✓ Captain Hawkins:- He is considered to be the first foreigner to speak in Persian
language in Jahangir's court. Jahangir was very impressed by this and he was
given the title of "English Khan" and was also honoured with a Mansabdari of
400.
✓ Sir Thomas Roe:- Sir Thomas Roe came to India in 1615 and appeared in
Jahangir's court as a representative of the British East India Company. He
was successful in establishing trade relations and obtaining privileges for the
British.
✓ William Finch:- He was a British traveller who travelled to India during
1608-11. The first mention of "Anarkali" is found in his travelogue.

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Construction works of Jahangir:-

➢ Jahangir made significant contributions to Mughal architecture. Some of his
major construction works are as follows:-
➢ Completion of Akbar's tomb at Sikandara:- Jahangir completed the construction
of the unfinished tomb of his father, Akbar. This tomb located in Sikandra is a
great example of Mughal architecture.
➢ Tomb of Etmaduddaula in Agra:- Jahangir built the dome of the tomb of
Etmaduddaula located in Agra. This dome used "Pitradhura" (inlay decoration
with yellow, green and red stones) for the first time, which became a special
identity of Mughal architecture.
➢ Tomb of Anarkali in Lahore:- Jahangir built a tomb in Lahore for his beloved
queen, Anarkali. However, the veracity of the stories related to this tomb is still
debated.
➢ Shah Jahan (1628-1658):
Childhood Name: Khurram
Mother: Jagat Gosain (a Rajput princess)
Wife: Arjumand Banu Begum (Mumtaz Begum)
Unfortunately, Mumtaz passed away in Burhanpur while giving birth to her
14th child. In her memory, Shah Jahan built the world-famous Taj Mahal.
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