Emperor Jahangir and the Transformation of the Mughal Empire – Part 2

Emperor Jahangir launched three campaigns in Mewar in 1597, 1608 and 1613. The rebellious region was eventually brought under Mughal control. He also expanded Mughal influence in the Deccan and eastern India. However, repeated revolts by nobles troubled the early years of his reign.

Emperor Jahangir married at a young age, around 12 or 15. On February 13, 1585, he married Mana Bai, daughter of his maternal uncle Raja Bhagwan Das, in a grand ceremony combining Hindu and Muslim traditions. She received the title Shah Begum and later died in 1604 after taking an excessive amount of opium.

Their son, Prince Khusrau, became a major source of conflict. Prince Khusrau was brave, ambitious and a skilled military commander. Several senior figures, including Akbar and Raja Man Singh, had favored him as a possible successor. After Jahangir became emperor, Prince Khusrau lived under restrictions in Agra Fort. On April 6, 1606, he left the fort with 350 horsemen after obtaining permission to visit Akbar’s tomb. He later reached Lahore through Mathura, raised an army and rebelled.

Emperor Jahangir’s forces defeated Prince Khusrau in Lahore. He was later captured while crossing the Chenab River and was imprisoned and blinded. Prince Khusrau was killed one night in January 1622, sparking public anger. His brother Prince Khurram was blamed for the killing, though he later rebelled against Emperor Jahangir himself. Much of the unrest was fueled by rival nobles, forcing Emperor Jahangir to devote significant time and resources to controlling internal rebellions.