Akbar the Great was the third Mughal emperor, ruling from 1556 to 1605. He is known for expanding and consolidating the Mughal Empire, establishing a centralized administration, and promoting religious tolerance.

Summary

Abu’l-Fath Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar, popularly known as Akbar the Great, was the third and one of the most influential Mughal emperors, ruling from 1556 to 1605. Akbar’s reign marked a golden era in Indian history, characterized by military expansion, administrative efficiency, religious tolerance, and cultural patronage. His policies laid the foundation for a strong and centralized empire, promoting unity in the diverse Indian subcontinent. His rule transformed the Mughal Empire into a powerful and prosperous entity, leaving an enduring legacy in Indian history.

Early Life and Succession

Akbar was born on 15 October 1542 in the fortress of Amarkot (modern-day Sindh, Pakistan), while his father, Humayun, was in exile following his defeat by Sher Shah Suri. His mother, Hamida Banu Begum, was of Persian descent, and his early years were spent under the care of his uncles in Kabul. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Akbar never learned to read or write, but he possessed an extraordinary memory and intelligence.

Following Humayun’s death in 1556, the young Akbar ascended the throne at the age of 14, under the guardianship of Bairam Khan, a loyal general. At the time of his succession, the Mughal Empire was in a precarious position, facing threats from Afghan warlords, Rajputs, and remnants of the Sur dynasty. His early years as emperor were dominated by the influence of Bairam Khan, who acted as his regent and successfully consolidated Mughal control over Delhi and Agra.

Military Campaigns and Conquests

One of Akbar’s greatest strengths as a ruler was his military prowess. He embarked on a series of campaigns to expand and secure the Mughal Empire, employing superior strategy, diplomacy, and technological advancements.

North and Central India

After reclaiming Delhi and Agra from the Sur dynasty, Akbar fought the Second Battle of Panipat (1556) against Hemu, a Hindu general of the Suri dynasty. The victory ensured Mughal supremacy in northern India. Akbar then turned his attention to Rajputana, defeating the Sisodia Rajputs in the Siege of Chittorgarh (1568) and the Battle of Haldighati (1576), bringing many Rajput rulers into his fold through diplomacy and matrimonial alliances.

Western and Southern India

To consolidate Mughal authority, Akbar annexed Gujarat (1573) and Bengal (1576), expanding the empire’s economic and commercial base. His campaigns in the Deccan (1591-1601) saw the annexation of Ahmednagar, Berar, and Khandesh, making the Mughal Empire one of the largest in the world at the time. His strategic use of gunpowder, artillery, and war elephants ensured his military dominance.

Central Asia and the Afghan Front

Akbar also focused on securing the empire’s northwestern frontier. He campaigned against rebellious Afghan tribes and consolidated Mughal control over Kabul (1585) and Kandahar (1595), ensuring the security of trade routes connecting India with Persia and Central Asia. His ability to integrate diverse regions into a unified administration was a testament to his political acumen.

Administrative Reforms of Akbar the Great

Akbar established a well-organized system of governance that strengthened the empire’s foundation. His administration was based on efficiency, revenue generation, and a fair legal framework.

Mansabdari System

One of Akbar’s most important reforms was the Mansabdari system, a hierarchical structure in which nobles were ranked based on their military and civil responsibilities. This system ensured loyalty to the empire and allowed Akbar to maintain a standing army without relying on feudal lords.

Revenue and Taxation

Akbar introduced the Dahsala system (also called Zabti system) under the supervision of Raja Todar Mal. This system fixed land revenue based on the average yield of the past ten years, ensuring fair taxation. It eliminated corruption and improved agricultural productivity.

Judiciary and Law

To ensure justice, Akbar centralized the judicial system, appointing Qazis (judges) to oversee legal matters. He promoted secular laws that did not discriminate against non-Muslims, a departure from earlier Islamic laws imposed by previous rulers.

Religious Policies and Din-i Ilahi

Unlike his predecessors, Akbar pursued a policy of religious tolerance and sought to create a syncretic culture.

Abolishing Religious Taxes

He abolished the Jizya tax on non-Muslims in 1564, a major step towards religious harmony. He also lifted restrictions on the construction of Hindu temples and allowed religious discussions at his court.

The Ibadat Khana and Religious Dialogues

In 1575, Akbar built the Ibadat Khana (House of Worship) in Fatehpur Sikri, where scholars from different faiths—Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism—debated theological issues. These discussions influenced Akbar’s religious outlook.

Din-i Ilahi

Inspired by various religious philosophies, Akbar introduced Din-i Ilahi (Religion of God) in 1582, a syncretic belief combining elements of Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. Although it never gained widespread acceptance, it reflected his vision of religious unity and tolerance.

Cultural and Architectural Contributions

Akbar was a great patron of the arts, literature, and architecture, shaping Mughal culture.

Mughal Art and Literature

His court attracted poets, scholars, and artists, including Abul Fazl, Faizi, and Tansen. The Akbarnama and Ain-i-Akbari, written by Abul Fazl, documented his reign in great detail. The Mughal school of painting flourished under his patronage, blending Persian, Indian, and European influences.

Architectural Marvels

Akbar commissioned several iconic structures, including:

• Fatehpur Sikri, his new capital, which showcased Indo-Islamic architectural fusion.
• Buland Darwaza, built to commemorate his victory over Gujarat.
• Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, which reflects Persian and Indian architectural styles.

Economic Policies and Trade

Under Akbar, the Mughal economy thrived due to agricultural expansion, trade, and improved infrastructure. He encouraged foreign trade with Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and Europe. The establishment of ports in Gujarat and Bengal enhanced India’s global trade, making the empire one of the wealthiest of its time.

Akbar the Great’s rule was marked by military conquests, administrative innovations, and a progressive vision for governance.

Personal Life and Legacy

Akbar’s personal life was as eventful as his political career. He married several Rajput princesses, fostering alliances with Hindu rulers. His most prominent consort was Mariam-uz-Zamani (Jodha Bai), the mother of his successor, Jahangir.

Death and Succession

In 1605, Akbar fell ill and passed away on 27 October 1605. He was succeeded by his son, Prince Salim, who took the throne as Jahangir. His death marked the end of an era, but his policies continued to shape the Mughal Empire for generations.

Enduring Legacy

Akbar is remembered as one of the greatest rulers in Indian history. His emphasis on religious tolerance, administrative efficiency, and cultural patronage transformed the Mughal Empire into a stable and prosperous entity. His policies influenced not just the Mughal era but also the foundations of modern India, making him a figure of historical significance.

Timeline of Akbar the Great

• 1542: Born in Umarkot, Sindh, to Emperor Humayun and Hamida Banu Begum.
• 1556: Becomes Mughal Emperor at 13 after Humayun’s death; Bairam Khan serves as regent.
• 1556: Wins the Second Battle of Panipat against Hemu, consolidating Mughal rule in North India.
• 1560: Assumes full control, dismissing Bairam Khan.
• 1562: Marries Rajput princess Mariam-uz-Zamani, fostering Mughal-Rajput alliances.
• 1568–1576: Conquers Chittorgarh, Ranthambore, Gujarat, and Bengal.
• 1571: Establishes Fatehpur Sikri as the Mughal capital.
• 1579: Issues Mahzar, declaring himself supreme arbiter in religious matters.
• 1582: Introduces Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religious doctrine.
• 1586–1595: Expands into Kashmir, Sindh, and Kandahar.
• 1599–1601: Conquers Deccan territories, including Ahmednagar and Asirgarh.
• 1605: Dies in Agra, succeeded by his son, Jahangir.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Akbar come to power?

Akbar succeeded his father, Humayun, at the age of 14 under the regency of Bairam Khan, who helped him consolidate power by defeating rival forces, including the Surs and Rajputs.

What were Akbar the Great’s military achievements?

He expanded Mughal rule across northern and central India through strategic warfare, diplomacy, and alliances, notably defeating the Rajputs, annexing Gujarat and Bengal, and securing the Deccan.

What was the significance of the Second Battle of Panipat (1556)?

It was a decisive victory for Akbar against Hemu, a Hindu general of the Sur dynasty. The battle secured Mughal dominance in northern India.

What was Akbar’s policy toward religion?

Akbar promoted religious tolerance, abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims, engaged in interfaith dialogues, and introduced Din-i Ilahi, a syncretic belief system combining elements of Islam, Hinduism, and other religions.

How did Akbar reform administration?

He established an efficient bureaucracy, introduced the mansabdari system for military and civil officials, and implemented land revenue reforms under Raja Todar Mal to standardize tax collection.

What role did Akbar’s court play in cultural development?

His courts in Agra, Delhi, and Fatehpur Sikri became centers of Indo-Persian culture, fostering advancements in art, literature, music, and architecture, including the development of Mughal painting.

Why did Akbar build Fatehpur Sikri?

He built Fatehpur Sikri as a new capital to commemorate his victory in Gujarat and to honor the Sufi saint Salim Chishti, but it was later abandoned due to water shortages.

How did Akbar integrate Rajputs into his empire?

He formed alliances through marriage with Rajput princesses, appointed Rajput nobles to high-ranking positions, and granted autonomy to compliant rulers, ensuring their loyalty.

Who succeeded Akbar the Great?

His son, Prince Salim, later known as Jahangir, succeeded him in 1605 and continued many of his policies while also asserting his own authority.

The Tomb of Jahangir in Lahore