Aurangzeb: Mughal Emperor's Life & Legacy Quiz

Aurangzeb: A Mughal Emperor's Life and Legacy

Aurangzeb, born on November 3, 1618, was the sixth Mughal emperor, reigning from 1658 to 1707. Throughout his long and tumultuous rule, Aurangzeb's life and legacy encompassed both remarkable achievements and challenging decisions that continue to draw scholarly attention to this day.

Early Life

The young prince, known for his studious habits, was raised by his father, Shah Jahan, in the Mughal court. Aurangzeb's early education included Persian, Arabic, and Sanskrit, as well as religious studies, such as Hadith and Fiqh. His talents with numbers and mathematics, inherited from his mother, made him an asset to the Mughal administration. Aurangzeb's intelligence and discipline stood out amongst his siblings, making him a formidable rival to his brothers for the throne.

Ascension to Power

When his father, Shah Jahan, fell into a state of ill health, the princes vied for power. Aurangzeb skillfully maneuvered the political landscape, ultimately outsmarting his brothers and claiming the Mughal throne. His ascension to power in 1658 marked the beginning of a reign unrivaled in longevity among his predecessors.

Administrative Reforms

Aurangzeb's reign saw a number of significant administrative reforms. He was rigorous in the collection of revenue, instituting a more efficient system of land revenue assessment. He also established a new department, known as the Diwan-i-In'am, to oversee the central treasury and manage the imperial finances. This led to a period of prosperity and economic growth.

Military Campaigns

Aurangzeb's reign was marked by military campaigns, both on the northern frontier and within the Indian subcontinent. His campaigns against the Rajputs and Marathas were noteworthy, as was his conquest of the Deccan. However, these campaigns also involved substantial loss of life and resources.

Religious Affairs

Aurangzeb's religion played a significant role in his life and governance. He was a devout Muslim, and his policies reflected his religious convictions. Aurangzeb was known for his efforts to implement shari'ah law in the empire. He also imposed a jizya tax on non-Muslims, which had not been collected by previous Mughal emperors. Aurangzeb's religious zeal was also evident in his destruction of Hindu temples and the imposition of restrictions on non-Muslims.

Decline of the Mughal Empire

Aurangzeb's reign was not without its challenges. The Mughal Empire began to decline during his rule, with factors such as increased military expenditure, religious polarization, and the growing power of regional rulers contributing to the empire's decline.

Death and Legacy

Aurangzeb passed away on March 3, 1707, at the age of 88. His reign had been marked by both extraordinary achievements and profound challenges. Aurangzeb's legacy, however, continues to be debated among scholars. While some argue that he was a unifier and a visionary, others view him as a divisive and autocratic figure.

The complexity of his reign and the multifaceted nature of his policies continue to make Aurangzeb a fascinating figure in the history of the Mughal Empire. His reign provides a unique window into the intricate dynamics of the Indian subcontinent during the 17th century, and his legacy continues to inform and challenge scholars to this day.