​What was Aurangzeb famous for? 5 historical facts many don't know

Aurangzeb was the last of the great Mughals who reigned from 1658 to 1707, leading the Mughal empire to its territorial peak. However, his policies laid the foundation for its decline. Born on November 3, 1618, in Dhod, Malwa, he was the third son of Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

He grew up as a devout and serious-minded youth, sticking to Islam principles. He avoided indulgence in sensuality or abundance. His aptitude for military and administrative duties became evident early on in his youth, leading to rivalry with his elder brother, Dara Shikoh, Shah Jahan's chosen heir. From 1636, Aurangzeb held various rebellions and won over the Uzbeks and Persians and as the Deccan's viceroy, where he subdued local Muslim kingdoms.

When Shah Jahan's illness in 1657 triggered a succession crisis, Aurangzeb used his military sharpness, cunning methods, and determination to take up the line of progression. Defeating Dara Shikoh decisively at Samugarh in 1658, Aurangzeb imprisoned his father in Agra to consolidate power on the throne. Here are 5 lesser-known facts about Aurangzeb.

Aurangzeb's succession to the throne involved brutal moves against his own relatives. He had his older brother Dara Shikoh executed as he considered him a threat to the throne. He also imprisoned and later executed another brother, Murad. Aurangzeb exiled his brother Shah Shuja and facilitated his eventual demise. In addition, he killed his son Muhammad Akbar, who had revolted against him, and his nephew Sulaiman Shikoh. This shows the extent to which Aurangzeb went to consolidate his power as emperor.

Aurangzeb’s religious policies were highly divisive. He reintroduced the jizya tax on non-Muslims which was abolished by Akbar, demolished several Hindu temples, and enforced conservative Islamic practices. These actions disappointed many communities and escalated resistance to his rule. While some viewed him as a devout Muslim ruler, others criticized his policies for undermining the Mughal tradition of religious tolerance and inclusive governance, leaving his legacy whining in controversy.

Even though he ruled harshly, Aurangzeb was a talented calligrapher who produced beautiful works of Islamic calligraphy. He actively sold his work and used the funds to support his simple way of life and religious duties. His commitment to this art shows a gentler, artistic aspect to his personality, which is otherwise overshadowed by his image as a ruthless ruler. His skills also highlighted his personal devotion to Islamic practices and his scholarly inclinations which he had abolished in general during his rule.

Aurangzeb chose a humble burial in Khuldabad, Maharashtra, which is a representation of his austere beliefs. Unlike the elaborate tombs of other Mughal rulers, his grave is a simple, open structure built with minimal expenses. It showed his deep adherence to Islamic values and his disdain for excessive luxuries, even in death. This decision was a personal contrast between his humble personal practices and the grandeur of his empire.

The execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1675 by Aurangzeb deeply angered the Sikh community, leading to a fierce uprising under the leadership of Guru Gobind Singh. This marked the beginning of the Khalsa movement, which aimed to resist Mughal rule and oppression. Similarly, the Jats, led by figures like Gokula and later Raja Ram, revolted against Aurangzeb's policies, including heavy taxation and religious persecution. These uprisings led to the growing discontent among regional communities against Aurangzeb's rule.