Get complete information on Jahangir

Get complete information on Jahangir

Jahangir was the son of a Rajput Mother. He grew up in the atmosphere of Ibadatkhana. His teacher Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khana was under the influence of Vaishnavism. Though he described himself a Sunni, he was a Shia at heart. Jahangir came into contact with Brahmans, Jain Scholars and Christian Missionaries. The family atmosphere was one of religious toleration and rationalism.

The result was that the religious views of Jahangir were liberal and enlightened. He had respect for the teachings of Islam. He introduced no change in the organisation of the Ecclesiastical Department. He gave rewards to those who got converted to Islam and penalised those who gave up Islam. However, he cannot be described as a staunch or orthodox follower of the principles of Islam. He himself was addicted to drinking which is prohibited by Islam.

He was friendly to the Christians and kept portraits of Christ and Mary in his bedroom. He had religious discussions with a Hindu Saint named Yadurup. He participated in the celebrations of the Hindu Festivals. He did not seek the revival of the pilgrim tax. He did not revive the imposition of Jizya. Hindus continued to occupy high offices under him. They had the liberty to build new temples. Many new temples were built at Mathura, Gokul and Vrindaban during his reign. The Christians were allowed to build churches and worship in the open.

However, certain things were done by Jahangir for which he is criticised and condemned: After the conquest of Kangra, Jahangir destroyed the Jwalamukhi Temple. He ordered the destruction of the Varah Temple at Pushkar near Ajmer. He suspected the Jains of having sided with Prince Khusrau and on that ground banished them from the Empire. On the same charge of helping Prince Khusrau, Jahangir imposed a fine of 2 lacs of rupees on Guru Arjun Dev.

When he refused to pay the fine, he was put to death on the charge of treason. He was offended by the conduct of Christians and he had their church closed down. All this shows that Jahangir did not bother if the religious susceptibilities of his subjects were wounded.

However, it cannot be said that he systematically persecuted the Hindus, Jains, Christians or the Sikhs. But he gradually helped in building up a background for religious persecution in future. He was more anxious to keep the Muslims satisfied than the members of other communities.