Aurangzeb

Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor, was born on November 3, 1618, and died on March 3, 1707. He reigned from 1658 to 1707. Known for his austere and conservative rule, Aurangzeb expanded the Mughal Empire to its greatest territorial extent but is also controversial for his strict religious policies.

Aurangzeb, born on November 3, 1618, as Muhi-ud-Din Muhammad, was the sixth Mughal emperor, reigning from 1658 to 1707. The son of Shah Jahan, he usurped the throne after imprisoning his father and eliminating his brothers. His reign is marked by the greatest territorial expansion of the Mughal Empire, encompassing almost the entire Indian subcontinent.

Aurangzeb is known for his strict administration and fiscal reforms. He reintroduced the Jizya tax on non-Muslims and strictly enforced Islamic law, earning criticism for his religious intolerance. He destroyed many Hindu temples and banned certain cultural practices that he deemed un-Islamic.

Despite his strict religious policies, Aurangzeb was an effective administrator. He modernized the army and increased the empire's revenues through strict fiscal management. However, his relentless wars to expand and maintain control over his vast empire drained the state's resources.

Aurangzeb died on March 3, 1707, leaving behind a weakened and fragmented empire. His reign, although powerful, is often seen as the beginning of the Mughal Empire's decline.

India • 40 • Mughal dynasty

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