Relations with Iran and the Question of Qandhar. Importance of Qandhar. Strategic and Economic Importance. Early Control and Conquests. Relations Under Shah Abbas I. Loss and Regain of Qandhar. Aftermath and Shah Jahan's Actions.
Qandhar: Mughal–Safavid Conflict
Qandhar was one of the most strategic and contested territories between the Mughals and the Safavids. Its significance lay in trade routes, military defense, and control over Southern Afghanistan. From Babur’s conquest in 1522 to Shah Jahan’s recapture in 1638, Qandhar played a central role in Mughal foreign policy. For students and exam preparation, this topic is crucial for understanding Mughal-Safavid relations, military strategies, and economic interests.
Importance of Qandhar: Mughal–Safavid Contest for Strategic and Economic Control (1507–1638)
Qandhar was a highly strategic fort city contested by the Mughals and Safavids for military and economic reasons.
Its location, water supply, and control over trade routes made it vital for both Kabul’s defense and Central Asian trade.
(i) Originally part of the Timurid Empire, it fell to the Uzbeks in 1507.
(ii) Controlled access to Kabul, Herat, and Southern Afghanistan.
(iii) Served as a strong fort protecting Mughal frontiers.
Strategic and Economic Significance of Qandhar
Qandhar was both a defensive stronghold and a commercial hub, acting as a linchpin in regional geopolitics.
Defensive Frontier for the Mughals
(i) The Kabul–Ghazni–Qandhar line served as a frontier defense.
(ii) Lack of natural defenses beyond Khyber increased its importance.
(iii) Safeguarded against invasions from Central Asia.
Economic and Trade Role
(a) Rich province contributing to Mughal revenue.
(b) Major hub connecting India with Central Asia.
(c) Alternate route (Central Asia–Multan) became crucial due to unrest in Iran.
Early Control and Mughal Conquests
The control of Qandhar shifted repeatedly due to struggles between the Mughals, Safavids, and Uzbeks.
From Babur to Akbar
(i) Babur captured Qandhar in 1522.
(ii) Lost to Shah Tahmasp after Humayun’s death.
(iii) Akbar reconquered it in 1595 to block Uzbek expansion.
Uzbek Threat
(a) By the late 16th century, Khurasan was under Uzbek control.
(b) This isolated Qandhar from Persia.
(c) Mughal presence there became a defensive necessity.
Relations with Shah Abbas I (1588–1629)
Under Shah Abbas I, Mughal–Safavid relations oscillated between diplomacy and rivalry over Qandhar.
Phase of Coexistence
(i) Diplomatic exchanges and embassies between Shah Abbas and Jahangir.
(ii) Cultural ties promoted by Nur Jahan.
(iii) Portrait of Jahangir and Shah Abbas symbolized cordiality.
Diplomatic Outreach
(a) Shah Abbas also allied with the Deccan states.
(b) Jahangir tolerated these ties, maintaining peace.
Loss and Regain of Qandhar
Qandhar changed hands multiple times between the Mughals and Safavids, reflecting the shifting balance of power.
Loss in 1622
(i) Shah Abbas I demanded Qandhar in 1620.
(ii) Prince Shah Jahan delayed relief with additional demands.
(iii) Persians captured Qandhar in 1622.
(iv) Relations between the Mughals and Iran deteriorated.
Shah Jahan’s Recapture in 1638
(a) After Shah Abbas I’s death, Persia weakened internally.
(b) Shah Jahan induced Ali Mardan Khan to defect.
(c) Qandhar returned to Mughal control in 1638.
(d) Frontier defense strengthened against Iran and Uzbeks.
Summary of the Importance of Qandhar
Qandhar was a crucial strategic and economic stronghold contested by the Mughals and Safavids from 1522 to 1638. It served as a defensive frontier, a trade hub, and a center of diplomatic rivalry. For students, this episode highlights Mughal foreign policy, relations with Shah Abbas I, and Shah Jahan’s campaigns, making it essential for exam preparation on Mughal–Safavid conflicts.
