Pak. Studies History O Level Ans.

History And Culture Of Pakistan O Levels, Cambridge International Examinations.

Q:Why was Aurangzeb blamed for sowing the seed of decline of  the Mughal Empire? [7]

Ans: Aurangzeb was an orthodox Muslim. He mai m aintained ntained a hideous approach towards other religions and was especially intolerant towards the hindus. As a symbol symb ol of his hatred he reimposed the jizya, a tax payable by non muslims which had been abolished during the time of  Akbar. He also did not allow the construction of new hindu temples during his reign and many previous pr evious temples were were demolished at his command. As a result of this hatred the hindus h indus becam becam e against the muslims. muslims. They tried to disturb the order of the Empire whenever they got the chance. Thus Aurangzeb Aurangzeb is blamed b lamed for sowing the seeds of  downfall. Aurangzeb wanted to expand his empire emp ire more than his father f ather had  done. For this purpose he launched a campaign against the Marathas in the Deccan which which lasted for 25 years. years. During Dur ing this period the bulk of the army was destroyed and most officers got corrupted and indulged in bribery. Moreover his absence from the capital led to loose administration. The wazirs and nobles became sluggish and lazy and  delayed state matters over over long periods which eventually led to the decline of the empire. Like his ancestors Aurangzeb was also fond of beauti b eautiful ful mega m ega structures. He ordered the building of the Badshahi masjid in Lahore and had a Pearl Masjid built in Delhi which was reserved for the King·s

private prayers. A Sheish Mahal was also constructed during his regime. Due to his unnecessary extravagance, the national treasury emptied very quickly and the poor economic conditions of the Empire led to it·s downfall.

For the above mentioned reasons Aurangzeb was blamed for  sowing the seeds of downfall of the empire.