On 31 July 1658 AD/CE, Aurangzeb crowned himself the king in Delhi’s Shalimar Gardens and adopted the regnal title of Alamgir, World Seizer. It was his first of two coronation ceremonies. After crowning himself, Aurangzeb now set off to neutralize his brothers: Dara Shikoh and Shah Shuja. After securing his victory over his brothers, Aurangzeb now celebrated his second coronation ceremony on June 13, 1659 AD/CE.
See Also: Mughal Emperor Babur Family Tree
Reign and Expansion of the Mughal Empire
Aurangzeb ruled for 49 years, making him one of the longest-reigning Mughal emperors. He was a notable expansionist; during his reign, the Mughal Empire reached its greatest extent, ruling over nearly all of the Indian subcontinent. During his lifetime, victories in the south expanded the Mughal Empire to 4 million square kilometers, and he ruled over a population estimated to be over 158 million subjects.
Economic Prosperity
During Aurangzeb’s rule, India became the world’s largest economy, surpassing the Qing Dynasty of China. The Mughal Empire accounted for nearly 25% of global GDP, exceeding the combined wealth of Western Europe. The Bengal Subah, in particular, became the empire’s richest province and a major hub of international trade.
Religious Devotion and Personal Life
Aurangzeb was noted for his religious piety; he memorized the entire Quran, studied hadiths, and stringently observed the rituals of Islam. He also patronized works of Islamic and Arabic calligraphy.
Administrative Policies
Aurangzeb considered the royal treasury a trust for his people. Unlike his predecessors, including his father Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb considered the royal treasury to be held in trust for the citizens of his empire. He did not enjoy a luxurious life and his personal expenses and constructions of small mosques were covered by his own earnings, which included the sewing of caps and trade of his written copies of the Quran.
Controversies and Legacy
Aurangzeb remains one of the most debated rulers in Indian history. Some historians admire his military prowess and discipline, while others criticize his policies as rigid and intolerant. His reign saw a shift from cultural patronage to military expansion, a move that some believe weakened the Mughal dynasty in the long run.
Decline of the Mughal Empire
After Aurangzeb’s death, the Mughal Empire fell into chaos and internal strife. Successors struggled to maintain his vast empire, leading to fragmentation and eventual decline.
See Also: Dynasties of Delhi Sultanate Family Tree
Conclusion
Aurangzeb Alamgir was the last powerful Mughal emperor. His reign shaped the history of India, expanding its borders and making it an economic superpower. However, his strict policies and military focus have led to diverse interpretations of his legacy. Whether seen as a visionary leader or a controversial ruler, Aurangzeb remains a significant figure in South Asian history.
