Akbar vs. Aurangzeb: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 19, 2024
Akbar, known for his policy of religious tolerance, was a Mughal Emperor who expanded the empire considerably, while Aurangzeb, his great-grandson, was known for strict Islamic policies and empire consolidation.
Key Differences
Akbar, ruling from 1556 to 1605, was renowned for his inclusive governance and promotion of cultural and religious harmony. In contrast, Aurangzeb, who ruled from 1658 to 1707, is often remembered for his orthodox Islamic policies and less tolerant stance.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Akbar's reign is marked by significant territorial expansion and the establishment of a centralized administrative system. Aurangzeb, though also expanding the Mughal territory, was more focused on consolidation and strict governance.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Culturally, Akbar encouraged art, literature, and architecture, leading to a unique Indo-Persian culture. Aurangzeb, however, was less patronizing of the arts and more focused on Islamic scholarship and architecture.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Akbar's religious policies included the abolition of the Jizya tax on non-Muslims and initiating a syncretic religion, Din-i-Ilahi. Aurangzeb, on the other hand, is known for re-imposing the Jizya and strictly adhering to Islamic law.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
In administration, Akbar innovated with policies like Mansabdari system, while Aurangzeb's reign saw a more stringent implementation of Sharia law and Islamic principles in governance.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Religious Policy
Promoted religious tolerance.
Imposed strict Islamic practices.
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Feb 19, 2024
Cultural Contributions
Fostered Indo-Persian culture and arts.
Focused more on Islamic architecture.
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Feb 19, 2024
Territorial Expansion
Expanded empire significantly.
Focused on consolidation.
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Feb 19, 2024
Administrative Reforms
Introduced innovative systems.
Emphasized Islamic law in governance.
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Feb 19, 2024
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Akbar and Aurangzeb Definitions
Akbar
Akbar expanded the Mughal Empire through military and diplomatic successes.
Akbar annexed Rajput kingdoms through both warfare and alliances.
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Jan 23, 2024
Aurangzeb
Less patronage towards arts compared to his predecessors.
Aurangzeb did not support the music and arts as Akbar did.
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Jan 23, 2024
Akbar
Innovator in administrative and governance methods.
Akbar implemented the Mansabdari system to streamline administration.
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Jan 23, 2024
Aurangzeb
Implemented policies that reversed Akbar's legacy of tolerance.
Aurangzeb reintroduced the Jizya tax on non-Muslims.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 23, 2024
Akbar
A Mughal Emperor known for his tolerance and cultural integration.
Akbar's court had scholars from diverse religious backgrounds.
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Jan 23, 2024
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Aurangzeb
Known for his austere personal life and devotion to Islam.
Aurangzeb was personally involved in Quranic studies and prayers.
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Jan 23, 2024
Akbar
Promoter of the arts and culture in his empire.
The construction of Fatehpur Sikri was a major cultural achievement under Akbar.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 23, 2024
Aurangzeb
A Mughal Emperor noted for his Islamic orthodoxy and empire expansion.
Aurangzeb expanded Mughal rule to the southern parts of India.
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Jan 23, 2024
Akbar
Initiated religious discussions and debates in his court.
Akbar's Ibadat Khana was a place for religious discourse.
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Jan 23, 2024
Aurangzeb
Aurangzeb emphasized Sharia law in his administration.
Aurangzeb's reign saw the implementation of Islamic laws in governance.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 23, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is Aurangzeb known for?
His orthodox Islamic rule and expansion of the empire.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
How did Akbar view other religions?
He was known for his tolerance and inclusivity.
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Feb 19, 2024
How did Akbar manage his empire?
Through innovative administrative reforms.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
What were Aurangzeb's religious policies?
He was known for strict adherence to Islamic law.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
How did Aurangzeb impact the Mughal Empire?
He expanded it but also faced internal revolts.
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Feb 19, 2024
Was Aurangzeb tolerant like Akbar?
No, he was less tolerant and more orthodox.
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Feb 19, 2024
Did Akbar expand the Mughal Empire?
Yes, significantly through conquests and alliances.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Was Aurangzeb a successful military leader?
Yes, he was successful in expanding the empire.
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Feb 19, 2024
What was Akbar's approach to governance?
He was innovative and inclusive in administration.
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Feb 19, 2024
Did Aurangzeb build many architectural marvels?
His contributions were more modest compared to Akbar.
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Feb 19, 2024
Did Akbar promote the arts?
Yes, he was a great patron of arts and culture.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Did Aurangzeb face challenges during his reign?
Yes, including revolts and administrative challenges.
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Feb 19, 2024
What was Aurangzeb's stance on arts?
He was less inclined towards patronizing arts.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Did Akbar have any unique religious beliefs?
He created Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religion.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
Did Akbar have a specific religious affiliation?
He practiced Islam but promoted interfaith harmony.
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Feb 19, 2024
How long did Aurangzeb rule the Mughal Empire?
He ruled for about 49 years.
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Feb 19, 2024
How did Akbar interact with other religions?
He encouraged dialogue and religious debates.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
What was Aurangzeb's policy towards Hindu temples?
He is known to have destroyed several temples.
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Feb 19, 2024
Was Akbar's rule marked by military conquests?
Yes, alongside diplomatic strategies.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 19, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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