Priyanka Tiwari
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Ever since the release of the movie Chava, stories about Mughal emperor Aurangzeb have resurfaced, sparking renewed interest in his life. Known for his rigid policies and religious fanaticism, Aurangzeb is often remembered as a ruthless ruler. However, there was a time when even he was deeply consumed by love, to the extent that he momentarily set aside his strict principles.
This is the story of Hirabai Zainabadi—a captivating dancer and singer who was once a mere maid in his aunt’s palace but ended up holding immense sway over Aurangzeb’s heart. It is said that this fierce and disciplined emperor, who strictly adhered to Islamic laws, was so enamored by Hirabai that he even considered breaking his own rules—for love.
The Passion for a Maid: Aurangzeb’s Forbidden Love
The story of Aurangzeb and Hirabai is mentioned in The Times History Book of the Year by author Simon Sebag. According to historical accounts, in 1653, Aurangzeb first encountered Hirabai Zainabadi in his aunt’s palace. She was a gifted singer and dancer, known for her extraordinary beauty and grace.
One fateful day, as she playfully plucked mangoes from a tree, Aurangzeb caught sight of her. Something about her charm mesmerized him, and in that moment, the future emperor—who was known for his cold and rigid demeanor—found himself captivated. Determined to make her his, he expressed his desire to his aunt, who eventually sent Hirabai to his palace.
Despite his reputation as a devout and austere ruler, Aurangzeb was completely smitten by Hirabai’s allure. His love for her was unlike anything he had ever experienced, making him momentarily forget his strict religious code.
Aurangzeb, Ready to Drink Alcohol for Love
Hirabai’s influence over Aurangzeb grew so strong that she held a unique power over him. She tested the limits of his devotion in a way no one had ever dared before. One evening, she picked up a glass of alcohol—strictly forbidden in Aurangzeb’s beliefs—and playfully urged him to drink with her.
Initially, he hesitated. He was known for his unwavering religious views and had always opposed such indulgences. However, under Hirabai’s enchanting gaze, he found himself yielding. Just as he was about to take a sip, Hirabai stopped him and drank the alcohol herself, smiling mischievously. “This was a test of your love,” she told him.
Aurangzeb was both embarrassed and moved. Instead of anger, his love for her only deepened. She was perhaps the only person who could make the stern emperor question his own rigid beliefs.
A Love Cut Short: The Tragic Death of Hirabai
But their love story was not destined to last. Just a year into their relationship, Hirabai passed away suddenly. Her death left Aurangzeb shattered. The man who had once softened under her love now closed his heart forever.
Devastated, he saw her passing as divine punishment for his momentary lapse in devotion. From that point on, he buried his emotions and became even more severe in his beliefs. It is said that this personal loss played a role in his decision to ban music, dance, and other arts in his empire—perhaps a way to erase any memory of the woman who had once melted his heart.
Aurangzeb’s Ruthless Reign and Power Struggle
After Shah Jahan’s health declined in 1657, a fierce battle for the Mughal throne erupted among his sons. Aurangzeb, always strategic and unyielding, eliminated his brothers one by one. He imprisoned his own father in Agra Fort and declared himself the emperor.
The once love-struck Aurangzeb transformed into one of the most feared rulers in Indian history. His reign was marked by relentless expansion, strict religious enforcement, and brutal suppression of dissent. Even his own family was not spared from his quest for absolute power.
The Lonely End of a Power-Hungry Emperor
Aurangzeb’s hunger for power cost him dearly. Though he ruled for decades, his policies alienated his subjects, leading to widespread unrest. By the end of his reign, the mighty Mughal Empire had begun its slow decline.
He had once experienced love so powerful that it made him question his own strict beliefs. But in the end, he chose the path of severity and control, erasing any traces of the softer, more vulnerable man he had briefly been. Aurangzeb died a lonely ruler, remembered more for his tyranny than for the fleeting moment when he had surrendered to love.
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