Akbar

Definition

Akbar, also known as Akbar the Great, was the third Mughal emperor who ruled from 1556 to 1605. He is renowned for his policies of religious tolerance, centralization of power, and the promotion of the arts, making significant contributions to Mughal architecture and the cultural landscape of India during his reign.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Akbar implemented a system of administration that included a council called the 'navratnas' or nine jewels, which comprised some of the most talented individuals in various fields.
2. He is credited with building the stunning Fatehpur Sikri, which served as his capital for a brief period and exemplifies Mughal architectural grandeur.
3. Akbar's religious tolerance led to policies that supported diverse faiths, fostering peace and stability across his empire.
4. He greatly expanded the Mughal Empire through military conquests, bringing much of the Indian subcontinent under his control.
5. Akbar's reign saw significant developments in literature, painting, and architecture, making it a golden age for Mughal art and culture.

Review Questions

• How did Akbar's policies promote religious tolerance in his empire?
  • Akbar's approach to governance emphasized religious tolerance through several key policies. He abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims and engaged in dialogues with scholars from various faiths. His introduction of Din-i Ilahi aimed to create a universal faith that incorporated elements from Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and other religions. These actions fostered an environment of coexistence among diverse communities in the Mughal Empire.
• Discuss how Akbar's architectural achievements reflect his vision for the Mughal Empire.
  • Akbar's architectural projects, particularly Fatehpur Sikri, are a testament to his vision for a centralized and culturally vibrant empire. The city features grand structures like the Buland Darwaza and the Jama Masjid, blending Persian and Indian architectural styles. These works not only showcased Mughal grandeur but also symbolized Akbar’s commitment to unifying diverse cultures and promoting an identity that transcended regional boundaries.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Akbar's rule on subsequent Mughal emperors and Indian society as a whole.
  • Akbar's reign set precedents for governance, religious tolerance, and cultural patronage that influenced subsequent Mughal emperors like Jahangir and Shah Jahan. His policies encouraged artistic expression and cultural synthesis that persisted beyond his rule, contributing to a rich legacy in Indian society. The emphasis on inclusivity and pluralism during Akbar's time established a foundation that shaped social dynamics in India for centuries, impacting communal relations among various religious groups even in modern contexts.

Related terms

Jahangir: The son of Akbar and the fourth Mughal emperor, known for his focus on the arts and his patronage of artists, continuing Akbar's legacy.

Din-i Ilahi: A syncretic religion introduced by Akbar aimed at merging the best elements of various faiths to promote unity among his subjects.

Fatehpur Sikri:

A city built by Akbar as a new capital, showcasing Mughal architecture and symbolizing his vision of a centralized state.