Question

What do you know about the Mughal relations with other rulers especially the Rajputs?

Answer 1

Hint:
1. The Mughal state was established by the Sultan Babur in the sixteenth century, with his legendary victory over the Lodhi Sultan in 1526.
2. By the early seventeenth century, Mughals governed one of the most populous and affluent empires in world history.
3. The policy of the Mughal rulers was to campaign constantly against rulers who were not ready to accept their authority.

Complete answer:
The main reason why Mughals had friendly relations with other rulers was that they never humiliated their opponents even though they defeated them. This quality enabled them to extend their influence over many kings and chieftains.

Babur’s victory in the First Battle of Panipat has made him decide to stay in India. This has led to a rivalry with the Rajputs. Also, even with all the efforts of Rana Sangha, Babur defeated the Rajputs in the Battle of Kanwar in 1527 C.E and established his empire.

When Akbar ascended the throne, he realized that the Mughal society predominantly consisted of the Non-Muslim population. Akbar understood early during his reign that the Rajputs being a militant and powerful race, their friendship and co-operation would prove beneficial for his empire in the long run. First of all, to win the Rajputs to his side, Akbar concluded a number of matrimonial alliances with the Rajputs. Secondly, Akbar freely admitted the Rajputs into royal service.

Shah Jahan also followed the Rajput policy of his father and grandfather. The Rajput during his reign still served the Mughal empire

The staunch policy of Aurangzeb towards the Rajputs has shown that the Mughal Relations with the Rajputs during Aurangzeb had reverted the traditional policy of his predecessors towards the Rajputs. As a result of this, he lost the support of the Rajputs.

Note:
1. ‘Rajput’ is derivative of a Sanskrit word raj-Putra which means “son of a king”.
2. Akbar’s Rajput policy drew the Rajput close to the Muslims. It led to the growth of a new type of art popularly known as Indo-Muslim Art.
3. Jahangir also follows a policy of conciliation towards the Rajput. His mom was also a Rajput princess.