The twilight of a reign
Aurangzeb, born on November 3, 1618, in Dahod, Gujarat, ascended to the Mughal throne in 1658. His reign, lasting nearly five decades, marked the zenith of the Mughal Empire’s territorial expansion. However, the latter years of his rule were characterized by relentless military campaigns, particularly in the Deccan region, which took a toll on both the empire’s resources and Aurangzeb’s health.
By the early 1700s, the emperor’s health had begun to decline. The prolonged warfare, administrative burdens, and personal austerity contributed to his deteriorating condition. Despite his ailments, Aurangzeb remained committed to his duties, often engaging in state affairs and religious practices.
The final days
In February 1707, while stationed in Ahmednagar, Aurangzeb’s health worsened significantly. Historical accounts suggest that on February 21, after performing his morning prayers, he returned to his quarters and fell into a trance-like state. Clutching his rosary, he murmured indistinct words, and by 8 a.m., he passed away peacefully. His death occurred on a Friday, a day considered sacred in Islam, aligning with his devout beliefs.
Cause of death
The exact cause of Aurangzeb’s death remains a subject of historical discussion. While some sources attribute it to natural causes associated with old age, others suggest that the cumulative effects of stress, illness, and exhaustion from continuous military campaigns played a significant role. At the time of his death, Aurangzeb was 88 years old, an age considered remarkable for that era.
Burial and legacy
Honoring his wishes for simplicity, Aurangzeb was buried in an unmarked grave at the dargah of Sheikh Zainuddin in Khuldabad, Maharashtra. Unlike the grand mausoleums of his predecessors, his tomb is modest, reflecting his personal austerity and piety. It is said that he paid for his burial by stitching caps and copying the Quran during his lifetime.
Aurangzeb’s death marked the end of an era for the Mughal Empire. His reign, while expansive, sowed seeds of internal strife and set the stage for the empire’s eventual decline. The succession disputes that followed his demise further weakened the central authority, leading to fragmentation and the rise of regional powers.
Reflections on a complex ruler
Aurangzeb’s legacy is multifaceted. To some, he is remembered as a devout ruler who upheld Islamic principles and expanded the empire to its greatest extent. To others, his policies are seen as intolerant, contributing to social and religious tensions. Regardless of perspective, his impact on the Indian subcontinent’s history is undeniable.
His death in 1707 not only concluded his personal journey but also signaled a turning point in the region’s history, ushering in a period of transformation and eventual colonial influence.