0Akbar the Great (1556–1605)
Emperor Akbar, the third ruler of the Mughal dynasty, is regarded as one of the greatest monarchs in Indian history. His reign (1556–1605) marked the consolidation of the Mughal Empire, characterized by administrative reforms, religious tolerance, and cultural synthesis.
Early Life and Accession
- Akbar was born in 1542 at Amarkot (Sindh) to Humayun and Hamida Banu Begum.
- At the age of 13, after Humayun’s death (1556), Akbar ascended the throne under the regency of Bairam Khan.
- The Second Battle of Panipat (1556) against Hemu marked the beginning of Akbar’s reign, re-establishing Mughal authority in north India.
Expansion and Conquests
Akbar was a skilled military strategist and empire-builder.
- North India: After consolidating Delhi and Agra, he annexed Gujarat (1572), Bengal (1576), and Kashmir (1586).
- Rajput Policy: He adopted a policy of conciliation towards Rajputs.
- Married Rajput princess Jodha Bai (Amber).
- Many Rajput rulers, like those of Amber, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer, joined his service.
- However, Rana Pratap of Mewar resisted; the Battle of Haldighati (1576) was fought against him.
- Deccan Policy: Akbar extended his control to Khandesh, Berar, and Ahmadnagar towards the end of his reign.
His conquests made the Mughal Empire one of the largest and most stable in India.
Administration
Akbar is renowned for establishing an efficient and centralized administrative system.
1. Central Administration:
- Adopted the title “Padshah-i-Ghazi.”
- Divided the empire into Subas (provinces), each headed by a Subedar.
- Other key officials:
- Diwan: Revenue and finance
- Mir Bakshi: Military and intelligence
- Sadr: Religious and charitable affairs
- Qazi: Judicial head
2. Mansabdari System:
- Introduced by Akbar to organize the army and bureaucracy.
- Each officer (mansabdar) had a rank denoted by Zat (personal rank) and Sawar (number of cavalry maintained).
- The system ensured loyalty and efficient governance.
3. Revenue System:
- Reforms by Raja Todar Mal (finance minister).
- Introduced Dahsala system (1580) – land revenue assessment based on average produce and prices of the previous ten years.
- Land was measured using the Zabt system; taxes were paid in cash or kind.
Religious Policy
Akbar’s religious tolerance and intellectual curiosity were defining features of his rule.
- Initially followed orthodox Islam, but gradually adopted Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace) – a policy of tolerance towards all religions.
- Abolished Jizya tax (1564) and pilgrimage tax on Hindus.
- Established the Ibadat Khana (House of Worship) at Fatehpur Sikri for interfaith discussions.
- Promoted Din-i-Ilahi (1582), a syncretic religion combining elements of Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, and Christianity, emphasizing ethics and loyalty to the emperor.
Art, Architecture, and Culture
Akbar was a great patron of art, culture, and learning.
- Founded Fatehpur Sikri, a unique architectural city blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles.
- Prominent monuments: Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and Jama Masjid.
- Promoted literature and translation of Sanskrit works (like Mahabharata → Razmnama).
- His court had the famous Navaratnas (Nine Gems) – including Birbal, Tansen, Abul Fazl, Faizi, Todar Mal, and others.
Economic and Social Policies
- Encouraged trade and agriculture, improved roads, and standardized weights and measures.
- Reformed the coinage system, introducing silver rupee and copper dam.
- Ensured justice and security for all sections of society, creating a relatively stable and prosperous empire.
Death and Legacy
- Akbar died in 1605 at Agra and was buried at Sikandra.
- His reign marked the apex of Mughal consolidation – combining political authority with cultural integration.
- He remains a symbol of religious tolerance, administrative innovation, and imperial vision.
Conclusion
Akbar’s reign was a golden chapter in Indian history. Through his military conquests, administrative genius, and secular outlook, he transformed the Mughal Empire into a powerful, culturally vibrant, and enduring state. His legacy as a just and visionary ruler continues to influence India’s ideas of governance and pluralism even today.
Keywords for UPSC:
- Second Battle of Panipat (1556)
- Rajput Policy
- Mansabdari System
- Dahsala & Zabt
- Sulh-i-Kul
- Din-i-Ilahi
- Fatehpur Sikri
- Navaratnas
