Aurangzeb: The Last Great Mughal Emperor
Aurangzeb Alamgir, born on 3 November 1618, was the
sixth emperor of the Mughal Empire and ruled from 1658 to 1707.
Known for his military expansion, strong administrative skills, and strict
adherence to Islamic principles, Aurangzeb’s reign marked both the peak of
Mughal power and the beginning of its decline. Here’s a look into his life,
rule, and legacy:
Early Life
- Full Name: Muhi-ud-Din Muhammad,
known as Aurangzeb.
- Family: Son of Emperor Shah Jahan
and Empress Mumtaz Mahal. He was one of fourteen children, including Dara
Shikoh, his elder brother and chief rival.
- Education: Aurangzeb received a
comprehensive education in religious studies, military strategy, and
governance.
Rise to Power
Aurangzeb was a capable and ambitious prince who proved his
military skill through successful campaigns in the Deccan.
In 1658, he overthrew his father Shah Jahan in a struggle
for the throne, imprisoned him in Agra Fort, and executed his rival brother
Dara Shikoh.
He crowned himself Emperor, adopting the title Alamgir
("Conqueror of the World").
Policies Regarding Religion
Aurangzeb's strict commitment to Sharia law is well-known. He imposed the jizya tax on non-Muslims, eliminated other taxes on Muslims, and enforced stringent religious regulations. Several tribes rebelled against him after he damaged some Hindu temples and outlawed cultural activities like dancing and singing in the royal court. The Mughal power was weakened as a result of the tension these policies caused between him and non-Muslim communities.Military Growth
Management
Aurangzeb was a highly competent administrator who implemented reforms to increase taxation and administrative efficiency in spite of his religious views.His introduction of the Fatawa-e-Alamgiri, a body of Islamic law, sought to establish a uniform legal framework throughout the empire.
Aurangzeb focused on bolstering the empire's treasury while leading a modest life devoid of luxury. His personal restraint, however, was insufficient to make up for the significant financial cost of his protracted wars.
Conflict with the Marathas
Aurangzeb’s reign saw fierce resistance from Shivaji and the
Maratha Empire, which he was never able to fully suppress.
Despite imprisoning Shivaji at one point, the Marathas
mounted a relentless guerrilla resistance. This prolonged conflict in the
Deccan weakened the Mughal treasury and diverted resources from other regions.
Later Years and Decline
- Aurangzeb’s
final years were marked by diminishing power and growing challenges to
Mughal rule. His campaigns in the Deccan became increasingly costly and
ineffective.
- His long
absences from the north weakened central authority, and rebellious
factions grew stronger. Regional kingdoms and provinces began asserting
independence as the Mughal administration struggled to maintain control.
Death and Legacy
- Aurangzeb
died on 3
March 1707 at the age of 88 in Ahmednagar. He was buried
in a simple grave in Khuldabad, Maharashtra, in line with his wishes for a
humble burial.
- His
death marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire’s rapid decline. Successive
emperors lacked his authority, and the empire fragmented as regional
powers, including the Marathas and the British, gained strength.
- In
Indian history, Aurangzeb still faces controversy due to his dictatorial
policies and religious intolerance, although he is admired for his
administrative and military prowess. Although Aurangzeb was the last
strong man to control the Mughal Empire, his policies eventually led to
its downfall. His legacy is complex. His reign is considered a watershed,
marking the seeds of the empire's downfall and the culmination of its
geographical expansion.
