An in-depth analysis of Aurangzeb's reign, focusing on succession challenges and the consolidation of his power.

The reign of Aurangzeb (1658–1707) marked the peak of the Mughal Empire, with vast territorial expansion, complex political policies, and controversial religious regulations. His rule is critical for students of history preparing for UPSC, SSC, and state exams, as it highlights administrative, economic, cultural, and religious dimensions of Mughal governance that shaped medieval India.

Aurangzeb’s Reign: Mughal Empire Expansion and Policies (1658–1707)

• Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb reached its zenith with vast territorial expansion and strict governance.

  His reign saw consolidation of Mughal power, extension into the Deccan, and implementation of strict Islamic laws with long-lasting impacts on Indian history.

  • (i) From Kashmir to Jinji and Hindukush to Chittagong, the empire expanded to its largest extent.
  • (ii) Military victories over Bijapur, Golconda, and conflicts with Marathas shaped southern expansion.
  • (iii) Religious and economic measures created controversies that continue in modern historiography.

• Aurangzeb’s Personal Traits and Governance Style

  Aurangzeb maintained personal austerity, religious orthodoxy, and discipline, which defined his governance approach.

  • Austerity and Simplicity

    • (i) Lived a frugal life, rejecting Mughal courtly luxuries.
    • (ii) Avoided grandeur in the palace, emphasizing religious devotion.
    • (iii) Personally engaged in prayer and fasting.

  • Discipline and Orthodoxy

    • (a) Practiced strict Sunni orthodoxy throughout his reign.
    • (b) Believed in moral discipline for himself and his empire.
    • (c) Strengthened control through religious law enforcement.

• Family Discipline and Succession Policies

  Aurangzeb’s strict policies extended to his own family, particularly in succession matters.

  • Imprisonment of Prince Muazzam

    • (i) Imprisoned his son Prince Muazzam (later Bahadur Shah I).
    • (ii) Reflected Aurangzeb’s ruthless control over dynastic politics.
    • (iii) Prevented challenges to his throne during his reign.

• Historians’ Views on Aurangzeb’s Rule

  Historians remain divided about Aurangzeb, with debates on his religious policies, governance, and military achievements.

  • Positive Assessments

    • (i) Praised for military conquests expanding Mughal boundaries.
    • (ii) Administrative reforms maintained imperial structure.
    • (iii) Economic expansion through trade routes.

  • Critical Views

    • (a) Enforcement of Sharia law created tensions.
    • (b) Religious intolerance reduced Mughal legitimacy among Hindus.
    • (c) Temple destructions and jizyah tax viewed as divisive.

• Political and Legal Policies of Aurangzeb

  Aurangzeb aligned statecraft with Islamic law, influencing administration and governance.

  • Hanafi Jurisprudence

    • (i) His governance was based on Hanafi Islamic law.
    • (ii) Decisions reflected religious authority in politics.
    • (iii) Centralized law under his control.

  • Zawabit-i-Alamgiri Reforms

    • (a) Codified laws reflecting his religious commitments.
    • (b) Strengthened judicial authority.
    • (c) Centralized Sharia enforcement.

• Economic Policies and Revenue System

  Aurangzeb’s economic measures supported military expansion but added burdens on subjects.

  • Trade and Commerce

    • (i) Supported commerce through territorial gains.
    • (ii) Expanded routes facilitated international trade.
    • (iii) Strengthened Mughal economic presence.

  • Taxation and Revenues

    • (a) Implemented heavy taxes to fund wars.
    • (b) Reintroduced cesses, creating discontent.
    • (c) Peasants and traders bore economic strain.

• Religious Regulations and Morality Laws

  Aurangzeb pursued religious orthodoxy through Sharia enforcement and bans on non-Islamic practices.

  • Strict Sharia Enforcement

    • (i) Introduced muhtasibs to monitor moral conduct.
    • (ii) Banned Nauroz and other festivals.
    • (iii) Strengthened Islamic orthodoxy in governance.

• Cultural Policies and Arts

  His rule discouraged art and music, emphasizing austerity over culture.

  • Restrictions on Music and Arts

    • (i) Suppressed music and entertainment in court.
    • (ii) Encouraged religious study instead of cultural patronage.
    • (iii) Reduced royal expenditure on the arts.

• Temple Policies and Religious Interventions

  Aurangzeb’s temple policies remain one of the most debated aspects of his reign.

  • Temple Destruction and Repairs

    • (i) Ordered destruction of temples in Banaras and Mathura.
    • (ii) Somnath temple destruction sparked controversy.
    • (iii) Some temples were later repaired or rebuilt.

• Re-imposition of Jizyah Tax

  The revival of jizyah remains a controversial aspect of Aurangzeb’s fiscal and religious policies.

  • Impact of Jizyah

    • (i) Non-Muslims had to pay as a symbol of submission.
    • (ii) Exemption was given to converts, creating coercive concerns.
    • (iii) Served fiscal and political motives simultaneously.

• Modern Historiography on Aurangzeb

  Contemporary historians analyze Aurangzeb with balanced perspectives, focusing on both achievements and controversies.

  • Modern Assessments

    • (i) Recognize his territorial expansion.
    • (ii) Critique religious intolerance.
    • (iii) Acknowledge administrative strength but divisive legacy.

• Summary of Aurangzeb’s Mughal Reign and Legacy

  Aurangzeb’s reign (1658–1707) marked the zenith of the Mughal Empire but also sowed seeds of internal decline due to religious orthodoxy, economic burdens, and temple destruction policies. His military achievements, revenue system, jizyah, and cultural austerity make him a crucial figure in medieval Indian history. For students preparing for competitive exams, his reign provides key insights into administration, politics, religion, and historiography of the Mughal period.