Defeated Hemu in Panipat and snatched back the throne of Delhi, Akbar was known not only for expansion of power but also for reforms.

Obnews Desk: The birth anniversary of India's great Mughal emperor Akbar is celebrated on 15 October. Akbar is known as Mughal-e-Azam. Akbar was born on 15 October 1542 in Umerkot. Which is now in Sindh province of Pakistan. Akbar's full name is Abu al-Fatah Jalal al-Din Muhammad Akbar. He ruled from 1556-1605. Expanded Mughal power over much of the Indian subcontinent and also promoted religious tolerance and social reforms in the empire.

Akbar was made the governor of the Punjab region at the age of just 13. Akbar's father Humayun also died at the same time. After which Hemu captured the throne of Delhi. On 5 November 1556, the Mughal army defeated Hemu in the Second Battle of Panipat and recaptured the throne of Delhi, crowning Akbar as king.

Akbar's reign

After Bayram's retirement in 1560, Akbar began ruling on his own. First he attacked Malwa and captured it in 1561. In 1568, Akbar captured the fort of Chittor and killed its inhabitants. After which in 1570 the people of Chittor accepted Akbar as their king.

Akbar conquered Gujarat in 1573. After conquering Gujarat, Akbar had his eyes on Bengal. The Afghan rulers of Bengal surrendered to Akbar's supremacy in 1575. In the last phase of his reign, Akbar captured Kashmir in 1586, Sindh in 1591 and Afghanistan in 1595. Akbar occupied two-thirds of the Indian subcontinent throughout his reign.

form of government

Akbar made many administrative reforms during his rule. He established an efficient administrative structure, which simplified the process of revenue collection. Under him the land revenue system was also introduced through 'Jizya' tax, which was an important part of his overall policies.

religious tolerance

One of the major contributions of Akbar was to promote religious tolerance. He founded a religion called 'Deen-e-Ilahi', whose objective was to establish dialogue and coordination between different religions. He promoted devotion among religions like Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism and Islam.

art and culture

Art and culture also developed during the reign of Akbar. He built wonderful cities like Fatehpur Sikri, which is a symbol of his architectural genius. There were many famous artists and writers in his court, who took literature and painting to new heights.

Heritage

On Akbar's birth anniversary, we must remember his long-lasting legacy. His thoughts and policies still give us the message of unity, tolerance and social harmony. His saga teaches us that a true leader must respect all religions and castes.