Akbar, ruling from 1556 to 1605, is celebrated as a preeminent Mughal emperor. Inheriting a vulnerable realm in his youth, his sharp intellect, military skill, and wise governance facilitated the substantial expansion and strengthening of Mughal authority over a considerable part of India. A hallmark of his reign was his philosophy of religious inclusiveness, known as Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace). He eliminated discriminatory taxes like the jizya and actively interacted with scholars and religious leaders from various faiths, including Hindus, Jains, Christians, and Zoroastrians.
Moreover, Akbar enacted significant governmental reforms. He organized his empire into provinces (Subas) managed by capable governors and effective fiscal systems. His land revenue system, developed with Todar Mal’s expertise, was particularly influential. He cultivated a vibrant cultural sphere within his court, which became a center for art, literature, music, and architectural innovation. He commissioned the translation of numerous Sanskrit works into Persian and oversaw the creation of magnificent architectural achievements such as Fatehpur Sikri. Ultimately, Akbar’s rule is renowned for its political unification, religious concord, administrative effectiveness, and cultural flourishing, establishing his legacy as a truly “Great” ruler.
Time To Learn
I. Fill in the blanks:
1. _____________ was the guardian of Akbar.
Ans: Bairam Khan
2. Akbar adopted a liberal ________________ .
Ans: religious policy.
3. In the year ____________ Akbar defeated Rana Pratap in the Battle of ____________ .
Ans: 1576 , Haldighati.
4. ____________ was built to celebrate Akbar’s victory over Gujarat.
Ans: Buland darwaza
II. Match Column A with Columb B:
Answer:
III. State whether the following statements are True or False:
- Bairam Khan was a faithful general, who served both Humayun and Akbar loyally.
True.
- Raja Todar Mai was the Revenue Minister of Akbar.
True.
- Akbar allowed religious freedom to the Rajputs only.
False.
Akbar allowed religious freedom to all.
- Akbar reimposed Jazia on the non-Muslim subjects.
False.
Akbar abolished Jazia on the non-Muslim subjects.
IV. Answer the following questions briefly:
Question 1.
When and between whom was the Second Battle of Panipat fought? What were its results?
Ans:
On November 5, 1556, the Second Battle of Panipat took place, a confrontation between the army of the Mughal emperor Akbar and the forces of Hemu (Hemchandra Vikramaditya), a Hindu king who had earlier taken possession of Delhi and Agra. At the time, the young Akbar’s army was led by his regent, Bairam Khan.
The outcome of the battle was a clear Mughal victory. Hemu was wounded by an arrow during the fighting, leading to his capture and subsequent execution. It also effectively concluded any substantial attempts at Afghan resurgence in the area, firmly reinstating Mughal supremacy.
Question 2.
Write briefly about the following :
(a) Akbar’s northern conquests
(b) Akbar’s southern conquests.
Ans:
(a) Akbar’s Northern Conquests:
Akbar focused significantly on consolidating and expanding his empire in the north. His early conquests under the regency of Bairam Khan included the annexation of Gwalior, Ajmer, and Malwa. He then moved to assert his authority over Rajputana. While many Rajput rulers accepted his suzerainty through diplomacy and matrimonial alliances, some, like the rulers of Mewar under Maharana Udai Singh and later Maharana Pratap, offered stiff resistance. Chittor fell in 1568 after a siege, but Mewar remained largely independent. Akbar also conquered Gujarat in 1573, gaining access to important ports for trade. He then turned east, annexing Bengal and Bihar by 1576 after defeating the Afghan rulers. Towards the end of his reign, he further secured the northwest by conquering Kabul (1581), Kashmir (1586), Sindh (1591), and Kandahar (1595), strategically important regions for the empire’s stability.
(b) Akbar’s Southern Conquests:
Akbar’s focus shifted towards the Deccan in the later part of his reign. His aim was to establish Mughal supremacy over the independent Deccan Sultanates. While Bijapur and Golconda were hesitant, Akbar’s forces began their southward expansion. By 1601, Akbar had annexed Berar, Khandesh, and parts of Ahmednagar. The fort of Asirgarh in Khandesh was one of his last major conquests. However, the complete subjugation of the Deccan Sultanates remained unfinished during his lifetime and was continued by his successors. His southern conquests, though not entirely complete, marked a significant expansion of Mughal influence into the Deccan.
Question 3.
What was the extent of Akbar’s kingdom? How was administration carried out during Akbar’s time? Explain with reference to the Central and Provincial administration.
Ans:
Central Administration: Emperor at the helm, assisted by key ministers for finance (Wazir/Diwan), military (Mir Bakshi), household (Mir Saman), religious affairs (Sadr-us-Sudur), and justice (Qazi-ul-Quzat), with direct imperial oversight and news reporters.
Provincial Administration: Subas mirroring the center with governors (Subedar), revenue heads (Diwan), military officers (Bakshi), religious affairs officials (Sadr), judges (Qazi), and city police chiefs (Kotwal), further divided into Sarkars and Parganas with local administrators, while villages retained traditional headmen.
Question 4.
What were the main sources of revenue for the Mughal government? How did Akbar improve the collection of revenue?
Ans:
The primary financial resources of the Mughal government under Akbar largely consisted of revenue derived from land, supplemented by customs duties on trade, taxes levied on various professions and commodities, and tributes received from subordinate rulers. Notably, land revenue constituted the most substantial portion, frequently forming the majority of the state’s income.
To enhance the efficiency and fairness of revenue collection from land, Akbar initiated several crucial reforms. These included a systematic survey and classification of cultivable land based on productivity, the introduction of the Zabti/Dahsala system which fixed revenue based on a ten-year average of yields and prices, the creation of revenue circles with localized tax rates, the implementation of the Patta and Qabuliyat system providing written agreements with cultivators, a move towards direct collection to reduce intermediary exploitation, the establishment of fair yet firm collection policies with provisions for relief during hardships, and the development of an organized bureaucracy to oversee the entire process. These measures collectively led to a more stable, equitable, and productive revenue system for the Mughal Empire.
Question 5.
What do you think about Akbar’s attempts to bring about religious, cultural and social unification in his empire?
Ans:
Akbar’s endeavors to achieve religious, cultural, and social unity within his diverse empire were exceptionally noteworthy and progressive for his era. His policy of Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace) promoted tolerance by eliminating discriminatory taxes and facilitating dialogues with various religious communities. His court became a vibrant cultural confluence, merging artistic and intellectual heritages. Socially, his policies indirectly fostered greater inclusivity. Although complete unification remained elusive and encountered some resistance, his efforts were courageous and established a foundation for a more inclusive society, a vision that continues to hold significance.
Question 6.
What do you understand by the term Din-i-Ilahi? Write a brief note on it.
Ans:
Din-i-Ilahi, or “Religion of God,” was a set of moral and spiritual principles formulated by Akbar in 1582. Stemming from his interactions with scholars of various faiths, it aimed to foster unity within his diverse empire by integrating aspects of Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Jainism. Its core tenets emphasized the oneness of God, ethical behavior, and devotion to Akbar as a divinely ordained ruler.
Rather than a conventional religion with scriptures or widespread conversion, Din-i-Ilahi functioned as an exclusive spiritual order among Akbar’s close associates. It incorporated elements from different faiths, such as reverence for the sun and abstention from meat. Although it did not achieve widespread religious unification, it illustrated Akbar’s syncretic philosophy and his aspiration for harmony across his multi-religious territories.
Question 7.
Do you think architecture flourished during Akbar’s reign? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans:
Unquestionably, architecture experienced a significant period of prosperity during Akbar’s reign. His direct imperial support fueled extensive building endeavors. He actively promoted a distinctive synthesis of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural traditions, clearly visible in monumental projects such as the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The widespread utilization of skilled craftsmen and novel materials like red sandstone characterized this era. The architectural innovations and stylistic blends of Akbar’s time exerted a lasting influence on subsequent Mughal architectural developments.
V. Give reasons why.
Question 1.
Land was classified and measured before revenue was fixed.
Ans:
Yes, accurately so. Akbar’s land revenue system first classified and measured land based on productivity. Revenue was then fixed as a share of the average yield of each category over ten years (Zabti/Dahsala system). This ensured fairer assessment, stable revenue, and reduced corruption.
Question 2.
Akbar followed a liberal policy towards the Rajputs.
Ans:
Yes, Akbar pursued a notably liberal policy towards the Rajputs, a crucial aspect of his empire-building strategy. He forged matrimonial alliances with Rajput princesses, granting them religious freedom and honoring their families. He also appointed Rajput rulers to high positions in his administration and military, fostering loyalty and a sense of shared governance.
This approach included allowing Rajputs to govern their internal affairs autonomously and respecting their Hindu faith. By treating them with honor and seeking their alliance rather than mere subjugation, Akbar successfully integrated many Rajput kingdoms into the Mughal Empire. This not only strengthened his military and administration but also fostered cultural exchange and reduced long-term conflict, proving to be a cornerstone of his successful reign.
Question 3.
Akbar is referred to as ‘Akbar the Great’.
Ans:
Yes, Akbar is called ‘Akbar the Great’ due to his significant expansion and consolidation of the Mughal Empire. He implemented efficient administrative reforms and championed a policy of religious tolerance (Sulh-i-Kul). His patronage of art and culture, along with his efforts towards social harmony and unification, solidify his place as one of India’s most influential and respected rulers.
VI. Picture study:
1. Name this building.
Ans.
Buland Darwaza.
2. Where is it located?
Ans.
Fathepur Sikri.
3. Why and when was it built?
Ans.
It was built to commemorate Akbar’s conquest of Gujarat.
4. Name the emperor who got it built. Write about his religious policies.
Ans.
The Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan.
In short, Shah Jahan was a devout Sunni Muslim whose early reign showed more orthodox Islamic policies, including some restrictions on Hindu temple construction and a brief reimposition of a pilgrimage tax. However, his policies weren’t consistently harsh, as he continued to employ Hindus in high positions and later showed signs of greater tolerance, possibly influenced by his liberal son Dara Shikoh.
Additional Questions
(Akbar The Great)
A. Fill in the blanks:
1. In the Second Battle of Panipat which took place in ______________, the Mughal army under the leadership of ____________ defeated _____________ .
Ans: November 1556, Bairam Khan, General Hemu.
2. Akbar held regular meetings with his senior officers in the _____________ and he met his subjects in the _______________ .
Ans: Diwan-i-Khas , Diwan-i-Aam.
3. The Mughal empire was divided into ____________ provinces and subas which were further subdivided into _________________ .
Ans: fifteen , districts or Sarkars.
4. The land revenue system introduced by Akbar was known as the _________________ .
Ans: Toda Mai’s Bandobast system.
5. The minimum age of marriage was raised to ____________ years for girls and ___________ years for boys.
Ans: fourteen , sixteen
6. Two great poets patronized by Akbar were ____________ and ___________.
Ans: Faizi and Raja Birbal.
B. Match the following:
Ans:
C. Choose the correct answer:
- Akbar was 13/15/17 years old when he was proclaimed emperor.
Ans.
Akbar was 13 years old when he was proclaimed emperor.
- Ran a Udai Singh/Jai Mal/Rana Pratap Singh was defeated by the Mughal forces in the Battle of Haldighati.
Ans.
Rana Pratap Singh was defeated by the Mughal forces in the Battle of Haldighati.
- In 1575 ce, Akbar built the Ibadat Khana in his new capital for discussions on politics/religious/warfare.
Ans.
In 1575 ce, Akbar built the Ibadat Khana in his new capital for discussions on religious.
- Akbar founded a new religious order which he called Din-i-Ilahi/Mahzar/Sulh-i-kul.
Ans.
Akbar founded a new religious order which he called Din- i-Ilahi.
- The court language used in Akbar’s court was Turkish/ Persian/Sanskrit.
Ans.
The court language used in Akbar’s court was Persian.
D. State whether the following are true or false:
- Akbar assumed absolute power and authority at the age of 21.
False.
Correct: Akbar assumed absolute power and authority at the age of 18.
- Akbar held regular meetings with the senior officers in the Diwan-i-Khas.
True.
- In each suba, the diwan kept records of the land revenue.
True.
- Din-i-Ilahi was adopted by all the people in Akbar’s empire.
False.
Correct: Din-i-Ilahi was introduced by all the people in Akbar’s empire.
- Akbar was illiterate but he had a passion for books.
True.
E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:
1.What role did Bairam Khan play when Akbar ascended the throne?
Ans.
When Akbar ascended the throne at age 13, Bairam Khan became his regent and chief advisor. He consolidated power, decisively led the Mughal forces to victory in the Second Battle of Panipat, effectively administered the empire, and acted as Akbar’s guardian and mentor, playing a vital role in securing the young emperor’s rule and laying the foundation for the future Mughal Empire.
2.What is the significance of the Second Battle of Panipat (1556 ce)?
Ans.
The Second Battle of Panipat (1556) was crucial because it solidified Mughal rule after Humayun’s death by decisively defeating Hemu, the main challenger. This victory secured Akbar’s claim to the throne and provided the stability needed for his future influential reign, shaping the course of Indian history by ensuring the continuation of the Mughal Empire.
3.Why did Akbar embark on a policy of conquest and annexation?
Ans.
Akbar initiated a policy of conquest and annexation to unify and enlarge the Mughal Empire, propelled by ambition for political power, strategic and economic objectives, and the aspiration to establish the paramountcy of Mughal rule. His formidable military capabilities provided the means to realize these aims and secure his extensive dominion.
4.Why did Akbar follow a policy of friendship with the Rajput?
Ans.
Akbar befriended the Rajputs to build a stable empire by securing their loyalty and integrating them into his administration and army, leveraging their military strength. This fostered inclusivity, promoted cultural exchange, prevented uprisings, and aligned with his policy of religious tolerance, ultimately strengthening the Mughal state.
5.Why is the memory of Rana Pratap Singh still honoured in Rajasthan?
Ans.
Rana Pratap Singh is honoured in Rajasthan for his unwavering resistance against Mughal rule, symbolizing Rajput valour and the fight for independence. The Battle of Haldighati and his resilience through guerrilla warfare against a superior enemy are legendary. He inspires generations as a symbol of courage and standing up for one’s beliefs, embodying the spirit of regional pride and heritage in Rajasthan.
6.What do you understand by the term ‘mansab’?
Ans.
A ‘mansab’ represented a specific grade or office within the Mughal imperial bureaucracy, instituted by Emperor Akbar. This system delineated an official’s social status, financial compensation, and military obligations, particularly the number of cavalrymen (sawar) they were obligated to provide. Over time, the ‘mansab’ was indicated by a dual structure: Zat, signifying personal rank and pay, and Sawar, detailing the required mounted contingent.
7.Who had the power to appoint and dismiss the mansabdars?
Ans.
The mansabdars were appointed, promoted or dismissed by the emperor.
8.Mention any one tax abolished by Akbar as a part of his policy of religious tolerance.
Ans.
Akbar abolished the jaziya (poll) tax and the pilgrim tax.
9.What power did Akbar gain through the Mahzar?
Ans.
The Mahzar (1579) gave Akbar supreme authority in interpreting Islamic law when scholars disagreed. This diminished the power of the orthodox clergy, allowed him to pursue religious innovations like Sulh-i-Kul and Din-i-Ilahi, and served as a political tool for unity in his diverse empire.
10.Why did Akbar encourage the study of secular subjects?
Ans.
Akbar encouraged secular studies (like math, astronomy, geography) to improve administration, foster intellectual growth, promote tolerance and understanding, create a cosmopolitan culture, strengthen diplomacy, and satisfy his personal curiosity. He believed a broad knowledge base was crucial for a strong and progressive empire beyond religious studies.
F. Answer the following questions briefly:
Question 1.
Why was Akbar’s position unstable and insecure when he ascended the throne of Delhi?
Ans:
When Akbar inherited the throne of Delhi in 1556, his position was considerably precarious and lacked firm security. Being merely thirteen years old, his youth and lack of experience rendered him susceptible to challenges. The Mughal Empire’s recent re-establishment by his father Humayun meant its authority was tenuous, with numerous independent rulers and a persistent menace from Afghan factions, evidenced by Hemu’s seizure of Delhi and Agra.
Moreover, the Mughal military strength was limited, and the potential for internal strife among ambitious nobles loomed large. The imperial treasury was likely strained due to prolonged exile and conflict. This confluence of a young, inexperienced ruler, a newly restored yet fragile empire confronting external threats and internal divisions, forged an exceedingly unstable environment that demanded robust leadership and resolute measures to solidify Akbar’s rule.
Question 2.
Rana Udai Singh of Mewar rejected Akbar’s offer of friendship and refused to submit to him. In this context, discuss: (a) Subjugation of Rana Udai Singh (b) Conflict with Rana Pratap Singh
Ans:
(a) Subjugation of Rana Udai Singh: Udai Singh refused Akbar’s friendship and didn’t submit. Akbar besieged Chittorgarh (1567-68), which fell after fierce Rajput resistance. Udai Singh retreated to the hills and ruled from Udaipur until his death, never personally submitting to Akbar, though he lost his capital.
(b) Conflict with Rana Pratap Singh: Rana Pratap, Udai Singh’s son, was even more resolute in resisting Akbar. The Battle of Haldighati (1576) resulted in a Mughal victory but Pratap escaped and continued guerrilla warfare, reclaiming some territory. He never submitted to Akbar, becoming a symbol of Rajput defiance and independence in Rajasthan.
Question 3.
Discuss the power and position of the emperor in the central administration.
Ans:
The Mughal emperor wielded ultimate and indisputable power within the central administration. Functioning as the head of state, the highest legal authority, the supreme military commander, the principal administrator, and the source of all legitimacy, all authority derived from them, and their judgments were final. They also shaped economic policies and supported artistic and cultural pursuits. The efficiency of the entire administrative system was directly tied to the emperor’s capabilities.
Question 4.
Who assisted the emperor in the administration of the empire? What were their responsibilities and functions?
Ans:
For the administration of the empire, the emperor depended on several key ministers. The Wazir primarily handled financial and revenue matters. The Mir Bakhshi headed the military organization. The Sadr-us-Sudur supervised religious and judicial affairs. The Mir Saman managed the imperial household. Furthermore, Waqia Navis, acting as news reporters, supplied crucial information. These principal officials oversaw their respective departments, provided advice to the emperor, and were vital for the effective governance of the large Mughal Empire.
Question 5.
Explain any five main features of the mansabdari system introduced by Akbar.
Ans:
The Mansabdari system was Akbar’s ranking system for all officials, determining status, pay, and military duties. It featured a dual rank (Zat and Sawar), with Sawar specifying the required cavalry contingent. Military responsibility was central, as mansabdars maintained troops. Ranks were non-hereditary, reverting to the emperor upon vacancy. Officials were also transferable across different administrative roles.
Question 6.
What measures did Akbar adopt to reorganize and strengthen the army?
Ans:
Akbar reorganized his army through the Mansabdari system, a ranking system with defined military obligations. He emphasized centralized control and sometimes direct payment to soldiers. Rigorous regulations like horse branding (dagh) and soldier rolls (chehra) were enforced with regular inspections. He also focused on diversification of forces (cavalry, artillery, infantry, elephants) and implemented inclusive recruitment across various groups.
Question 7.
Explain the important features of the land revenue system introduced by Todar Mai.
Ans:
Todar Mal’s land revenue system (Zabti/Dahsala) featured systematic land survey and measurement. Land was classified by productivity. Revenue was based on average yield and prices of the past decade. Cash payment was preferred, with regional revenue rates (Dastur-i-Amal) for different crops in revenue circles (Dasturs). This aimed for fair, stable, and efficient revenue collection.
Question 8.
What policies did Akbar follow to transform the Islamic state into a secular one and unite the diverse races in the country into a single nation based on equality?
Ans:
Akbar’s strategies sought to evolve his dominion from an Islamic-centric state into a secular realm, fostering unity among diverse ethnicities through principles of equality. His foundational policy, Sulh-i-Kul (universal harmony), guaranteed religious liberty and mutual respect across all faiths. He eliminated discriminatory levies such as the Jizya and extended patronage to numerous religious traditions. Interfaith discussions were promoted within the Ibadat Khana, and individuals from varied backgrounds were appointed to prominent roles based on merit. His endeavor to establish a unifying faith, Din-i-Ilahi, while not widely adopted, further exemplified his dedication to transcending religious divisions and constructing a cohesive nation founded on equality and mutual regard.
Question 9.
Briefly explain the features and objectives of the Din- i-Ilahi?
Ans:
The Din-i-Ilahi, Akbar’s “Divine Faith” of 1582, was a syncretic ethical system with a monotheistic core, drawing virtues from Islam, Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, and others, but lacking scripture or priesthood, emphasizing personal allegiance to Akbar as a spiritual guide. Its objectives were to foster universal peace (Sulh-i-Kul) among diverse religions, achieve unity within the empire by finding common ground, strengthen the realm through harmony, and establish a universal ethical and moral order transcending religious boundaries.
Question 10.
Mention the important features of Akbar’s Rajput policy. Why did he adopt this policy and what were its results?
Ans:
Akbar’s Rajput policy was characterized by several key features. He strategically forged matrimonial alliances with prominent Rajput clans, such as the Kachwahas, fostering political ties and elevating their status within the Mughal court. Furthermore, he appointed Rajput rulers and nobles to high-ranking positions in both the administration and the military, recognizing their merit and loyalty. A significant aspect was religious tolerance, granting Rajputs the freedom to practice Hinduism, build temples, and abolishing discriminatory taxes like the Jizya. Akbar also largely adopted a policy of non-interference in their internal affairs, respecting their customs and traditions, and treated them with honor, seeking their alliance rather than mere subjugation. The grant of Jagirs further integrated them into the Mughal administrative framework and rewarded their service.
Akbar adopted this policy due to political pragmatism, recognizing the power of the Rajput rulers and the need for their cooperation to build a stable empire. Their renowned military strength provided a valuable asset to the Mughal army. He also desired a unified empire where all communities felt a sense of belonging and sought trustworthy allies among the native Indian population. Akbar’s personal respect for Rajput qualities also played a role. The results of this policy were significant. It strengthened the Mughal Empire through Rajput military and administrative contributions, fostered cultural exchange, led to a period of relative peace by integrating a powerful group, increased loyalty and integration of Rajputs into the Mughal system, and facilitated the expansion of Mughal influence.
Question 11.
Mention any two important social reforms introduced by Akbar?
Ans:
Akbar introduced social reforms aimed at a more equitable society. He abolished discriminatory taxes like the Jizya on non-Muslims and the pilgrim tax on Hindus, promoting religious tolerance and inclusivity. He also attempted to reform social practices by discouraging Sati, regulating child marriage, encouraging widow remarriage, and banning the enslavement of prisoners of war, striving for a more just social order within his diverse empire.
Question 12.
Give an account of Akbar’s cultural achievements with reference to: (a) Literature (b) Architecture
Ans:
(a) Literature: Persian language arts thrived with notable figures such as Faizi and Abul Fazl. A dedicated translation department facilitated the rendition of Sanskrit literary works into Persian, promoting intercultural understanding. Hindi literature experienced significant growth, particularly the Bhakti movement exemplified by Tulsidas and Surdas. Important historical records, including the Akbarnama, were commissioned, and libraries were established to encourage learning.
(b) Architecture: Akbar’s architectural style uniquely merged Persian, Islamic, and Indian influences, initially utilizing red sandstone prominently (as seen in Humayun’s Tomb and Agra Fort). Fatehpur Sikri stands as a prime example of this synthesis in its various structures (Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid). Indigenous Indian architectural elements (brackets, perforated screens) were integrated. Furthermore, he supported the development of Persian-inspired gardens.
G Picture study:
The picture depicts a Mughal emperor holding discussions on religious matters in the Ibadat Khana.
Question 1.
Identify the emperor.
Ans:
Akbar.
Question 2.
Which religious communities participated in the discussions?
Ans:
Muslim clerics, Hindu scholars, Buddhist and Jain monks, Parsi priests, Christian missionaries, etc. assembled in the Ibadat Khanna.
Question 3.
Why did the emperor organize these assemblies?
Ans:
Akbar organized religious assemblies like those at the Ibadat Khana to gain knowledge about different faiths, promote religious tolerance and harmony (Sulh-i-Kul), seek diverse counsel, challenge orthodox views, and unify his diverse empire.
