1. The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb reimposed the Jaziya tax in 1679 AD, a poll tax levied on non-Muslim subjects, known as dhimmis. This decision was a significant departure from the liberal policies of his predecessors, especially Akbar, who had abolished the tax over a century earlier. Aurangzeb's stateRead more

    The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb reimposed the Jaziya tax in 1679 AD, a poll tax levied on non-Muslim subjects, known as dhimmis. This decision was a significant departure from the liberal policies of his predecessors, especially Akbar, who had abolished the tax over a century earlier. Aurangzeb’s stated aim was to govern according to strict Islamic principles. The move alienated a large section of the Hindu population and is considered a major factor in the widespread revolts and destabilization that characterized the later years of his long reign.

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  2. Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of the magnificent Moti Masjid or 'Pearl Mosque' within the confines of the Agra Fort. Completed around 1654, it was built using shimmering white marble, which gives it its name. This structure is a remarkable example of pure, classical Mughal architecture, dRead more

    Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of the magnificent Moti Masjid or ‘Pearl Mosque’ within the confines of the Agra Fort. Completed around 1654, it was built using shimmering white marble, which gives it its name. This structure is a remarkable example of pure, classical Mughal architecture, distinguished by its proportional grace and simplicity, contrasting with the decorative extravagance of other imperial buildings. Shah Jahan intended it for the exclusive use of the members of the royal court, showcasing his reign’s emphasis on architectural perfection and religious piety.

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  3. During the reign of Akbar, the Amalguzar (or Amil) was a crucial officer in the Mughal revenue administration, responsible for the district (sarkar). Their primary function was to assess the land and collect the land revenue (Māl) from the farmers, in accordance with Akbar's Zabt or Bandobast systemRead more

    During the reign of Akbar, the Amalguzar (or Amil) was a crucial officer in the Mughal revenue administration, responsible for the district (sarkar). Their primary function was to assess the land and collect the land revenue (Māl) from the farmers, in accordance with Akbar’s Zabt or Bandobast system. Beyond collection, the Amalguzar’s responsibilities included encouraging the extension of cultivation, granting loans to the needy, keeping detailed accounts and ensuring that no undue pressure was placed on the peasantry, making them vital administrative links.

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  4. The crucial agreement by which Shivaji was compelled to surrender forts to the Mughals was the Treaty of Purandar, signed in 1665 AD. The treaty was negotiated with the Mughal general, Raja Jai Singh I, whom Emperor Aurangzeb had sent to subdue the Maratha leader. Under the terms, Shivaji was requirRead more

    The crucial agreement by which Shivaji was compelled to surrender forts to the Mughals was the Treaty of Purandar, signed in 1665 AD. The treaty was negotiated with the Mughal general, Raja Jai Singh I, whom Emperor Aurangzeb had sent to subdue the Maratha leader. Under the terms, Shivaji was required to cede twenty-three of his most important forts and territories and pay tribute. This treaty was a major political victory for the Mughals, demonstrating their military pressure, although Shivaji quickly recovered his power and forts soon after the agreement.

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  5. The foundation of the Khalsa Panth was ceremoniously laid by the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, on April 13, 1699, a date coinciding with the harvest festival of Baisakhi. The event took place at Anandpur Sahib. The Khalsa, meaning 'The Pure,' was created to instill a code of conduct and discipRead more

    The foundation of the Khalsa Panth was ceremoniously laid by the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, on April 13, 1699, a date coinciding with the harvest festival of Baisakhi. The event took place at Anandpur Sahib. The Khalsa, meaning ‘The Pure,’ was created to instill a code of conduct and discipline, transforming Sikhs into a distinct, disciplined and valiant community prepared to fight against tyranny. Guru Gobind Singh also introduced the ‘Five Ks’ and the surnames ‘Singh’ and ‘Kaur’ to establish a unique identity for the Khalsa.

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