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

Mughal Territorial Expansion Under Aurangzeb

• Mughal Empire Peak: Aurangzeb's reign (1658-1707) represented the Mughal Empire's maximum territorial extent, spanning from Kashmir to Jinji and from Hindukush to Chittagong.
• Military Campaigns: Numerous military campaigns consolidated and expanded the empire, notably against the Deccan Sultanates, Bijapur, Golconda, and Maratha territories.

Aurangzeb's Personal Traits and Governance Style

• Disciplinarian: Known for strict personal discipline, Aurangzeb led a simple life, avoiding the luxuries of previous Mughal emperors.
• Orthodoxy: Deeply religious, he adhered to strict interpretations of Sunni Islam throughout his rule.
• Simplicity: Maintained a frugal court, in contrast to the opulence of his predecessors.
• God-fearing: Regularly engaged in prayer and fasting.

Family Discipline: Aurangzeb's Strict Policies

• Imprisonment of Prince Muazzam: Aurangzeb's strict governance extended to family matters, including the imprisonment of his son Prince Muazzam (later Bahadur Shah I) due to succession disputes.

Historians' Views on Aurangzeb's Reign

• Divided Opinions: Historians have mixed views, with some praising his governance and expansion efforts, while others critique his religious policies and their impact on Hindu-Muslim relations.
• Achievements: His reign was marked by military conquests and administrative reforms that shaped the Mughal Empire.
• Religious Tolerance: While some policies were viewed as tolerant, his enforcement of Islamic law sparked discontent among non-Muslims.

Political Policies: Aurangzeb's Governance Framework

• Hanafi Jurisprudence: Favoring the Hanafi school of Islamic law influenced his legal and administrative decisions.
• Zawabit-i-Alamgiri: Legal reforms reflecting his commitment to Sharia law and central authority.

Economic Policies: Revenue and Trade under Aurangzeb

• Trade Promotions: Supported trade and commerce, benefiting from expanding territories and trade routes.
• Tax Policies: Implemented various taxes to finance military campaigns and administrative needs, leading to criticism from peasants and traders.
• Re-imposition of Cess: Reintroduced additional taxes to fund specific projects, adding to the economic burden on subjects.

Religious Regulations: Sharia and Morality Enforcement

• Sharia Enforcement: Aurangzeb aimed for strict adherence to Sharia law in personal and public life.
• Moral Regulations: Appointed muhtasibs (morality police) to uphold moral conduct, prohibiting activities against Islamic teachings.
• Ban on Nauroz: Prohibited the celebration of Nauroz and other non-Muslim festivals, reflecting his religious policies.

Cultural Policies: Austerity in the Arts

• Music Regulation: Discouraged music and entertainment, fostering a more austere cultural environment.
• Simplicity in Court: Focused on religious piety and simplicity, contrasting with the opulence of previous courts.
• Official Austerity: Emphasized reduced expenditures and strict financial discipline in administration.

Temple Policies: Aurangzeb's Religious Interventions

• Destruction and Repair: Ordered the destruction of certain Hindu temples, particularly in Banaras and Mathura, some of which were later reconstructed.
• Somnath Temple: The destruction of the Somnath Temple became a focal point of controversy during his reign.

Jizyah: The Tax on Non-Muslims

• Re-imposition: Reintroduced jizyah, leading to discontent among non-Muslim communities.
• Exemption Criteria: Non-Muslims converting to Islam were exempt, raising concerns of coercion.
• Economic Motives: The tax was both a fiscal measure and a political assertion of Islamic authority.

Historiography: Modern Perspectives on Aurangzeb

• Modern Assessments: Contemporary historians evaluate Aurangzeb's reign critically, balancing his territorial expansion against social and religious tensions.
• Controversies: His policies regarding Hindu temples and jizyah continue to fuel historical debates.
• Impact on Hindu-Muslim Relations: His religious policies significantly affected Hindu-Muslim dynamics, making them a key focus in historiography.