Emperor Aurangzeb was referred to by his subjects as ‘a dervish/fakir in royal attire’. This was due to his remarkably austere and simple personal life, strict adherence to Islamic principles (Sharia) and his rejection of the lavish, extravagant lifestyle characteristic of his Mughal predecessors, earning him the title ‘Zinda Pir’ (Living Saint). The correct answer is (B) Aurangzeb.
Share
Emperor Aurangzeb was perceived as ‘a dervish/fakir in royal attire’ due to his profound personal piety and extreme asceticism. He rigorously avoided royal extravagance, refused to drink wine and even sewed prayer caps to earn a small personal income, unlike his father Shah Jahan. This self-denial and strict observance of orthodox Islamic law, even while holding immense imperial power, led to him being called the ‘Zinda Pir’ (Living Saint) by his subjects.