Mughal Empire

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Mughal Empire : Detailed Introduction

Introduction :
The Mughal Empire was a great empire of the Indian subcontinent , which was founded by Babur in 1526 AD . This empire ruled over a large part of the Indian subcontinent for about 300 years. The Mughal rulers belonged to the Turk – Mongol dynasty , who were considered to be descendants of Timur and Genghis Khan.

Establishment of the Mughal Empire :
The foundation of the Mughal Empire was laid by Babur in 1526 AD by defeating Sultan Ibrahim Lodi of the Delhi Sultanate in the First Battle of Panipat. Babur’s military prowess , strategy and efficient use of artillery played an important role in this victory.

Important rulers and their works :

Babur (1526-1530):

    • Founder of the Mughal Empire.
    • Victory in the First Battle of Panipat and the Battle of Khanwa.
    • his autobiography Baburnama Famous for.

Humayun (1530-1556):

    • Son of Babur.
    • After being defeated by Sher Shah Suri, he went into exile but regained power in 1555 .
    • There is a glimpse of struggle and reconstruction in his life.

Akbar (1556-1605):

    • The most successful and greatest Mughal ruler.
    • Deen – e – Ilahi religion and alliance with Rajputs.
    • Administrative reforms , the confiscation system , and promoted religious tolerance.
    • Akbar’s court had a group of Navaratnas , which included scholars like Birbal , Tansen , and Abul Fazal.

Jahangir (1605-1627):

    • Lover of art and culture.
    • Beginning of construction of monuments like Fatehpur Sikri and the Taj Mahal.
    • Nur Jahan had a profound influence on the reign.

Shah Jahan (1628-1658):

    1. Famous for the golden age of architecture.
    1. Built the Taj Mahal , Minar – e – Fateh , and the Jama Masjid.
    1. Mughal art and culture touched new heights during his period.

Aurangzeb (1658-1707):

    1. The last powerful Mughal emperor.
    1. Expanded the empire in South India.
    1. Reintroduced religious fanaticism and Jaziya tax.
    1. His harsh rule led to the beginning of the decline of the empire.

Administrative System :
The administrative system of the Mughal Empire is considered the basis of their power. They adopted a centralized administrative system :

  • Subedari System : The empire was divided into provinces.
  • Mansabdari System : Mansabdars were appointed for the army and administration.
  • Revenue Policy : Akbar’s zabt system systematised agriculture-based revenue collection.

Cultural Contribution : The Mughal Empire
is known for its unique contributions in the fields of art , literature , and architecture.

  • architecture : Monuments such as the Taj Mahal , Red Fort , Jama Masjid , and Fatehpur Sikri.
  • Art and Painting : Development of Mughal painting style.
  • Literature : Promotion of Persian and Urdu literature.

Decline of the Empire :
After the death of Aurangzeb in the 18th century, the empire began to weaken. Powerful groups such as the Marathas , Sikhs , and the British began to capture parts of the Mughal Empire. After the revolt of 1857 , the last Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah Zafar was exiled by the British and the Mughal Empire came to an end.

Conclusion :
The Mughal Empire is a glorious chapter in Indian history. It had a profound impact on the political , cultural , and social life of India. Although their empire ended , the institutions , monuments , and policies established by them are still invaluable heritage in Indian culture and history.

Introduction

Introduction :
The Mughal Empire was an important and powerful empire in Indian history , founded by Babur in 1526 AD . This empire ruled over a large part of the Indian subcontinent for about three centuries. The Mughal rulers were descendants of Timur and Genghis Khan and deeply influenced Indian administration , art , architecture , and culture.

The initial aim of the Mughal Empire was to establish its power in India , but gradually they left a deep mark on Indian society through their efficient administration , military strategy , and cultural contribution. This empire achieved unique heights in religious tolerance , revenue reforms , and architecture.

From the beginning of the Mughal Empire to its fall , it has been a chapter in Indian history that not only changed the political landscape but also enriched Indian culture.Establishment of the Mughal Empire

The Mughal Empire was founded by Babur in 1526 AD . It was a historic event , which completely changed the political landscape of the Indian subcontinent. Mainly three major reasons and events were important in its establishment : Babur’s ambition , the weakness of the Lodi dynasty , and the use of modern military techniques.

Babur and his background :

Babur (1483-1530) was Zahiruddin Muhammad. He was the ruler of Fargana ( modern Uzbekistan ) and was a descendant of Timur and Genghis Khan.

  • Control over Fargana : Babur took over the rule of Fargana at a young age , but due to his limited power and many conflicts he turned his attention towards India.
  • Purpose of visiting India : Babur decided to attack India because the Lodi dynasty had weakened there and there was a possibility of establishing a powerful empire.

First Battle of Panipat (1526):

The most decisive moment in the establishment of the Mughal Empire occurred on 21 April 1526 , when Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi, the Sultan of Delhi, in the plains of Panipat.

Reasons for the fight :

  1. Weakness of the Lodhi dynasty : Ibrahim Lodi was a weak and unpopular ruler. His feudal lords and Rajput leaders were dissatisfied with him.
  2. Ambition of Babar : Babur found India’s wealth and vast area suitable for his empire.

Babur’s Military Strategy :

  • equipped his troops with modern artillery and the Tulughma war strategy ( encirclement from the right and left flanks ) .
  • He used ” Rumi artillery ” , which was based on Turkish cannons. This was the first time modern cannons were used in warfare in India.
  • Ibrahim Lodi’s army was large , but his strategy was weak and outdated.

Result of the war :

  • Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi and captured Delhi and Agra.
  • This victory marked the foundation of the Mughal Empire.

Reasons for Babur’s victory :

  1. Military skills : Babur made efficient use of artillery and cavalry.
  2. Strategic Leadership : Babur was a skilled commander , while Ibrahim Lodi was inexperienced.
  3. Military discipline : There was good discipline and unity in Babur’s army.

Post-Installation Steps :

  • Capture of Delhi : Babar captured Delhi and made it his capital.
  • Relations with local rulers : He entered into political agreements and alliances with local rulers.
  • State Expansion : Babur won further battles ( Khanwa and Ghaghra ) and expanded his empire.

conclusion :

The First Battle of Panipat paved the way for the establishment of the Mughal Empire in Indian history. Babur was not only a skilled commander but also a visionary ruler. His victory not only marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate but also the beginning of a new era in India. The establishment of the Mughal Empire was the initial phase of completely changing the political , cultural , and economic condition of India .

Important rulers of the Mughal Empire

Important rulers of the Mughal Empire and their works

There were many rulers during the Mughal Empire , but there were some rulers who strengthened the empire and made it a golden chapter of Indian history with their foresight. The contribution of these rulers developed the Mughal Empire politically , economically , culturally and administratively.

1. Babur (1526-1530):

The reign of Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, was short , but its historical importance is immense.

Main functions :

  • First Battle of Panipat (1526): Defeated Ibrahim Lodi and captured Delhi and Agra.
  • Battle of Khanwa (1527): Defeated the Rajputs under the leadership of Rana Sanga.
  • Battle of Ghaghra (1529): Conquered the rulers of Bengal and Bihar.
  • Baburnama : He wrote his autobiography ” Baburnama ” , which describes the then society , politics and his victories.

2. Humayun (1530-1556):

The reign of Babur’s son Humayun was full of conflicts.

Main functions :

  • Humayun fought several rival rulers at the beginning of his rule.
  • Defeat from Sher Shah Suri (1539-1540): After being defeated in the battles of Chausa and Kannauj, he went into exile.
  • Restoration of power (1555): With the help of Iran he again captured Delhi.
  • Cultural Contribution : Humayun promoted Persian art and architectural styles.

3. Akbar (1556-1605):

Akbar is considered the greatest ruler of the Mughal Empire. He provided political stability and cultural prosperity to the empire.

Main functions :

  • Second Battle of Panipat (1556): Consolidated power by defeating Hemu.
  • religious tolerance : Establishment of Deen – e – Ilahi and respect for all religions.
  • Administrative Reforms :
    • Implemented the Mansabdari system.
    • Revenue Reforms under the Zabt System.
  • Rajput Policy : Akbar made friends with the Rajputs by establishing matrimonial relations with them.
  • Architecture : Construction of Fatehpur Sikri.
  • Court of Navratnas : There were scholars and artists like Birbal , Tansen , Abul Fazal in his court .

4. Jahangir (1605-1627):

was famous for art , culture and administration.

Main functions :

  • Art and Painting : The Golden Age of Mughal Painting.
  • Just Ruler : He established the ” Zanjeer – e – Adalat ” ( chain of justice ) .
  • Foreign Relations : He allowed the British to trade in India.
  • Influence of Noor Jahan : His wife Noor Jahan played an important role in governance.

5. Shah Jahan (1628-1658):

Shah Jahan is known as the ” Golden Age of Mughal Architecture ” .

Main functions :

  • Construction of the Taj Mahal : He got it built in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
  • Construction of Red Fort and Jama Masjid : The rise of Mughal architecture.
  • The Magnificent Court : He decorated his court with splendor and grandeur.
  • Military operations : He launched several campaigns to conquer South India and Kandahar.

6. Aurangzeb (1658-1707):

Aurangzeb was the last powerful ruler of the Mughal Empire.

Main functions :

  • Expansion of the Empire : Expanded the empire to its maximum extent in South India.
  • Religious Policy :
    • Re-implemented Jaziya tax.
    • Adopted the policy of demolishing temples.
  • Administration : He adopted a simple life and strict rule.
  • Maratha Conflict : Long struggle with Shivaji and the Marathas.
  • Beginning of the decline : His policies weakened the empire , resulting in its decline.

conclusion :

The rulers of the Mughal Empire made unique contributions to Indian history. Babur established it , Akbar organized and strengthened it , Shah Jahan gave it grandeur through architecture and art , and Aurangzeb expanded it. But Aurangzeb’s harsh policies also led to the decline of the empire. The achievements of these rulers can still be seen in Indian culture , architecture and history.

Administrative system of the Mughal Empire

Detailed description of the administrative system of the Mughal Empire

The administrative system of the Mughal Empire was highly organized and effective. The system was concentrated under the authority of the ruler , but was efficiently distributed at the provincial and local levels. The main purpose of the administration was to provide political stability to the empire , ensure tax collection, and maintain social order. Akbar gave a systematic and structured form to this system , which was later adopted by other Mughal rulers as well.

Administrative Structure :

The Mughal administrative system was mainly divided into three levels :

  1. Central Administration
  2. Provincial Administration ( Subedari System )
  3. Local Administration

1. Central Administration :

The main source of power at the centre was the emperor. The emperor had unlimited power , but he ruled with the help of ministers and advisors.

Key Positions and their Functions :

King :

    • The supreme ruler of the empire and centre of administration.
    • The emperor had the final authority for all important decisions.

Wazir ( Prime Minister ):

    • Chief officer for administrative and financial matters.
    • He was responsible for revenue collection , supervision of the treasury , and financial policies.

Diwan – i – Khas :

    • Special advisor to the Emperor.
    • Important policies and military strategies were discussed.

Mir Bakshi :

    • The chief officer of the army.
    • He made arrangements for the recruitment, salaries and weapons of the soldiers .

Diwan – i – Rasayal ( Foreign Minister ):

    1. Handled diplomatic relations with other states and countries.

Sadar – Us – Far :

    1. Head of religious affairs and charitable works.
    1. Enforced Islamic law ( Sharia ) .

Police Chief :

    1. In charge of the security arrangements of cities and important areas.

2. Provincial Administration ( Subedari System ):

The Mughal Empire was divided into provinces ( subas ) . The administrative head of each suba was ” subedar ” .

The Subedar and his companions :

Subedar :

    • Head of the province and in charge of military and administrative matters.
    • There was a representative of the emperor.

diwan :

    • Chief officer of revenue and financial matters.
    • He looked after the measurement of land , tax collection , and the problems of farmers.

Trooper :

    • The head of the military force in the province.
    • Responsible for maintaining peace and security.

Qazi :

    • Justice of the Peace.
    • Islamic law and settled local disputes.

3. Local Administration :

The provinces were divided into districts ( Sarkar ) and parganas. The following officers were appointed for administration in each pargana :

Shikdar :

    • The chief officer of the pargana.
    • Responsible for maintaining law and order.

Amil :

    • Head of tax collection.
    • Used to collect revenue from farmers.

Lawyer :

    • Maintained land records and revenue accounts .

Patwari :

    • He used to prepare accounts of land and taxes in villages.

Mansabdari System :

This was the most important administrative system of the Mughal Empire.

Properties :

Mansab ( rank ):

    • Every officer was given a ” Mansab ” ( rank ) .
    • This position reflected his military and administrative responsibilities.

Caste and Rider Rank :

    • Caste : Personal status of the officer.
    • Rider : The number of soldiers he will provide to the army.

Salary :

    • Mansabdars were given cash salary or jagir ( land ) .
    • The income from the jagir was used for the expenses of the soldiers and other responsibilities.

Revenue System :

Todarmal organised revenue collection during the time of Akbar.

Expropriation system :

  • Land was measured and taxes were levied based on the produce.
  • The tax rate was usually one – third of the produce.
  • For the convenience of farmers, tax could be taken in cash or in the form of crop.

Judicial System :

  • The judicial system was based on Islamic law ( sharia ) and local traditions.
  • Qazi : Chief Judicial Officer.
  • Sadar – Us – Far : Used to look into disputes related to religion and law.
  • Justice was given to Hindus and other religions according to their religion.

Military Administration :

  • was primarily based on cavalry , infantry , artillery , and navy.
  • Mir Bakshi was the head of the military administration.
  • Mansabdari system was adopted to maintain the number and quality of soldiers.

Social and Cultural Administration :

  • Mughal rulers were known for religious tolerance , especially Akbar.
  • Education and culture were encouraged.
  • Persian and Urdu languages developed.
  • Architecture and painting were encouraged.

conclusion :

The administrative system of the Mughal Empire was highly organized and extensive. It not only gave stability to the empire , but also promoted economic , cultural , and social development. The systems introduced by Akbar lasted until the fall of the empire and their influence can be seen in the administrative system of modern India as well.

Cultural contributions

Cultural Contribution of the Mughal Empire

The Mughal Empire was not only great in the political and administrative field , but it also contributed significantly in enriching the cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent. The Mughal rulers created a new cultural tradition by the fusion of Indian and Persian culture , which is visible in various aspects of architecture , painting , music , literature , and social life.

1. Architecture :​​

Mughal architecture is world famous and can be called a fusion of Indian and Islamic architecture.

Important Features :

  • Domes and Minarets : The architecture includes large domes , tall minarets , and intricate carvings.
  • Gardens : Charbagh style gardens were created , inspired by Persian architecture.
  • Marble and inlay work : White marble and precious stones were used.

Famous Buildings :

  1. The Taj Mahal ( Shah Jahan ): Built in the memory of Mumtaz Mahal , it is a symbol of love and a World Heritage Site.
  2. Red Fort ( Shah Jahan ): This fort located in Delhi is a symbol of Mughal power.
  3. Jama Masjid ( Shah Jahan ): The largest mosque in India.
  4. Fatehpur Sikri ( Akbar ): This city built by Akbar is an excellent example of architecture.
  5. Humayun’s Tomb ( Akbar ): It is an early example of the Mughal tomb style.

2. Painting :​​

Mughal painting was a blend of Persian , Indian and Islamic traditions.

Properties :

  • The paintings depict nature , human figures , and details of court life.
  • Use of gold and intricate colourful designs.
  • Special contribution in book illustration ( miniature painting ) .

Important Schools of Painting :

  1. Time of Akbar : Golden age of painting. Akbar encouraged Persian and Indian artists.
  2. Time of Jahangir : Arouse interest in depictions of nature and animals.
  3. Time of Shah Jahan : Decorativeness and grandeur in painting.

3. Music :

Music received great encouragement during the Mughal Empire and it was a flourishing period for Hindustani classical music.

Important contributions :

Akbar’s court :

    • Akbar encouraged musicians.
    • Tansen , one of the Navratnas of Akbar , was a great musician of Hindustani classical music.
    • Akbar merged Hindu and Islamic musical traditions.

Jahangir and Shah Jahan :

    • These rulers gave grandeur to music.
    • Development of Dhrupad style.
    • Extensive use of musical instruments such as sitar and tabla.

4. Literature :

Literature also touched new heights during the Mughal period. Persian , Hindi , and Urdu literature flourished.

Persian Literature :

  • Persian was the language of the court and most Mughal literature was written in Persian.
  • Babur wrote his autobiography ” Baburnama ” in Turkish.
  • Abul Fazal wrote ” Ain – e – Akbari ” and ” Akbarnama ” .
  • Jahangir wrote ” Tuzhuk – e – Jahangiri ” .

Urdu Literature :

  • The Urdu language developed during the Mughal period.
  • Urdu was born from the mixture of Persian , Arabic , and local languages.

Hindi Literature :

  • The poets and saints of the Bhakti period were patronized by the Mughal rulers.
  • Tulsidas , Mirabai , and Surdas developed at this time.

5. Social and religious tolerance :

Akbar’s Deen – e – Ilahi :

  • Akbar tried to bring all religions on one platform.
  • Promoted Hindu – Muslim unity and communal tolerance.
  • Jaziya tax was abolished.

Translation of religious texts :

  • Translation of Ramayana and Mahabharata into Persian.
  • built ” Ibadat Khana ” for discussions on Jewish , Christian , and Islamic religions.

6. Clothes and jewellery :

  • Clothing and jewellery of the Mughal period were a fusion of Indian and Persian traditions.
  • , zari and precious stones were used in royal costumes .

7. Artisanship and Handicrafts :

  • Mughal-era carpets , textiles , and jewellery are masterpieces of Indian handicrafts.
  • Prevalence of enamelling and stone carving.

8. Science and Education :

  • Advances in astrology , astronomy , and medicine.
  • Construction of madrasas and libraries.
  • Akbar patronised scholars to promote education.

conclusion :

The cultural contribution of the Mughal Empire is an invaluable part of the heritage of the Indian subcontinent. The contribution of the Mughal rulers in architecture , painting , music , and literature gave a new identity to Indian culture. This cultural mixture is still seen as a symbol of India’s unity in diversity.

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