1. The Persian translation of the Mahabharata, known as Razmnama, was completed during Akbar's rule as part of his broader effort to strengthen cultural harmony. Akbar gathered Sanskrit scholars and Persian translators—most notably Faizi—to collaborate on this monumental work. The emperor wanted his coRead more

    The Persian translation of the Mahabharata, known as Razmnama, was completed during Akbar’s rule as part of his broader effort to strengthen cultural harmony. Akbar gathered Sanskrit scholars and Persian translators—most notably Faizi—to collaborate on this monumental work. The emperor wanted his court to understand Hindu epics, philosophy and traditions. The Razmnama was beautifully illustrated with Mughal miniature paintings and became a symbol of Indo-Persian cultural fusion. It showcased Akbar’s inclusive approach, fostering dialogue between different religions. The project greatly enriched Persian literature and demonstrated the Mughal court’s deep intellectual curiosity.

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  2. After Aurangzeb’s death, the Sayyid Brothers—Husain Ali and Abdullah—became kingmakers, controlling the Mughal throne. Many nobles resented their influence. Muhammad Shah cooperated with these nobles to remove them. In 1720, Husain Ali Khan was assassinated at Fatehpur Sikri and Abdullah Khan was laRead more

    After Aurangzeb’s death, the Sayyid Brothers—Husain Ali and Abdullah—became kingmakers, controlling the Mughal throne. Many nobles resented their influence. Muhammad Shah cooperated with these nobles to remove them. In 1720, Husain Ali Khan was assassinated at Fatehpur Sikri and Abdullah Khan was later defeated and imprisoned. This ended the Sayyid Brothers’ dominance and restored nominal independence to the emperor. However, Muhammad Shah’s rule still faced internal decline and rising regional powers. The overthrow of the Sayyid Brothers marked a political shift but did not revive the weakening Mughal Empire.

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  3. Bahadur Shah II, popularly known as Bahadur Shah Zafar, was the final ruler of the Mughal dynasty. His authority was symbolic, limited to the Red Fort, while real power lay with the British. During the Revolt of 1857, Indian rebels declared him their symbolic leader. After the rebellion was suppressRead more

    Bahadur Shah II, popularly known as Bahadur Shah Zafar, was the final ruler of the Mughal dynasty. His authority was symbolic, limited to the Red Fort, while real power lay with the British. During the Revolt of 1857, Indian rebels declared him their symbolic leader. After the rebellion was suppressed, the British abolished the Mughal throne. Zafar was captured, tried and exiled to Rangoon, where he spent his last years writing poetry. His death in 1862 marked the official end of the Mughal Empire, closing a significant chapter in Indian history.

     

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  4. Todarmal was one of Akbar’s most capable administrators and the architect of the Mughal revenue system. His reforms included detailed land surveys, measurement of cultivated fields and classification based on soil quality. He introduced a uniform taxation system where revenue was fixed according toRead more

    Todarmal was one of Akbar’s most capable administrators and the architect of the Mughal revenue system. His reforms included detailed land surveys, measurement of cultivated fields and classification based on soil quality. He introduced a uniform taxation system where revenue was fixed according to average produce and prices over ten years. This system, known as Zabt or Todarmal Bandobast, reduced corruption, increased state income and provided stability to farmers. Todarmal’s policies were so efficient that both Jahangir and Shah Jahan continued them and the British later adapted several aspects in their revenue settlements.

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  5. The Ibadatkhana, constructed at Fatehpur Sikri in 1575, served as a meeting place where Akbar invited scholars, saints and theologians of various religions to engage in discussions. Representatives from Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Jainism, Buddhism and Zoroastrianism debated issues of faith, ethiRead more

    The Ibadatkhana, constructed at Fatehpur Sikri in 1575, served as a meeting place where Akbar invited scholars, saints and theologians of various religions to engage in discussions. Representatives from Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Jainism, Buddhism and Zoroastrianism debated issues of faith, ethics and philosophy. These dialogues influenced Akbar’s views on tolerance and inspired the creation of Din-i-Ilahi. The Ibadatkhana symbolized Akbar’s desire to promote intellectual exchange and reduce religious conflict. It remains one of the most important achievements reflecting the emperor’s liberal and inquisitive outlook.

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