Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, is celebrated for his administrative brilliance, religious tolerance, and cultural patronage, which have inspired leadership lessons in modern contexts.
Management System:
- Mansabdari System: A military-administrative structure assigning ranks (mansabs) to nobles, ensuring accountability and enhancing military efficiency.
Land Revenue System:
- Zabt System: A standardized land revenue collection method.
- Land classified into Polaj, Parauti, Chachar and Banjar based on fertility.
Centralized Administration:
- Organized hierarchy: Subhas, Sarkars, Paraganas and Villages, with officials like Subhadars and Muqaddams.
- Councils included Diwan-i-Arz (military), Diwan-i-Kohi (agriculture) and Diwan-i-Khairat (charity).
Art and Architecture:
- Fatehpur Sikri: Iconic structures like Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal and Jama Masjid, showcasing Persian, Islamic and Indian influences.
- Agra Fort: Renovated with notable structures such as Jahangir Mahal.
- Mughal Paintings: Focused on naturalism and realism, depicting court life, historical events, and nature in miniature art.
Religious Policy:
- Religious Tolerance:
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- Abolished jiziya and pilgrimage taxes for non-Muslims.
- Banned Sati and promoted equality.
- Ibadat Khana: A venue for interfaith discussions at Fatehpur Sikri.
- Din-i-Ilahi: A syncretic religious doctrine promoting universal harmony.
- Sulh-i-Kul: Advocated peace and inclusivity in governance.
Historians and Books on Akbar:
- Akbarnama and Ain-i-Akbari by Abu’l-Fazl: Comprehensive records of Akbar’s reign and administration.
- Hamzanama: Commissioned Persian epic tales.
- Razmnama: Persian translation of the Mahabharata.
Literature:
- Promoted translations of Hindu and Persian works like Yogavashishtha and Mahabharata.
- Patronized poets and scholars, including Faizi and Tansen.
