Aurangzeb built fewer monuments because most of his reign was spent in long, expensive military campaigns, especially in the Deccan. These wars drained the treasury, leaving fewer resources for architecture. He also followed a more austere personal lifestyle, focusing on administration and warfare rather than grand artistic projects like earlier Mughal rulers. Answer: (B) He had to fight continuous wars during his reign.
Share
Aurangzeb’s limited architectural activity can be attributed mainly to his continuous wars, particularly in the Deccan, which consumed enormous financial and military resources. Unlike rulers such as Akbar or Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb prioritized military expansion and strict administration over cultural projects. His personal adherence to austerity and orthodox Islamic practices also reduced interest in lavish constructions. The prolonged conflicts with the Marathas and regional powers drained the treasury, limiting funds for major architectural undertakings. Although he built a few structures like the Badshahi Mosque and Moti Masjid, they were fewer compared to the grand works of earlier Mughal emperors.