Priyanka Tiwari
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The Deccan Plateau, covering parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, remained a volatile region for Aurangzeb’s Mughal Empire. His prolonged military campaigns in the Deccan, particularly against the Marathas, drained resources and weakened the empire’s foundation.
Historians argue that his aggressive policies and continuous warfare led to severe financial and administrative strain, contributing to the Mughal Empire’s decline.
Maratha Resistance and the Execution of Sambhaji
Aurangzeb’s campaign against the Marathas was marked by relentless military operations. His capture and execution of Chhatrapati Sambhaji, the second Maratha ruler, was meant to crush resistance. However, rather than ending Maratha opposition, his actions intensified their guerrilla warfare, leading to prolonged unrest.
Accounts of Sambhaji’s execution vary, but most historical sources agree that he was brutally tortured before being put to death on Aurangzeb’s orders. This event further unified Maratha forces, fueling a stronger rebellion against Mughal rule.
Wars Against Golconda and Bijapur
Beyond the Marathas, Aurangzeb sought to consolidate power by annexing Golconda and Bijapur in 1686–1687. However, these conquests failed to bring stability. Instead, they overextended Mughal forces, leading to widespread unrest and economic strain.
Additionally, Aurangzeb’s strict religious policies alienated many factions, including Shia Muslims, who had previously supported the Mughal administration. The empire's finances deteriorated, soldiers went unpaid, and famine spread across various regions.
Aurangzeb’s Personal Beliefs and Administrative Approach
Unlike his predecessors, Aurangzeb lived an austere lifestyle and discouraged extravagant architectural projects. He was a devout Muslim and a skilled calligrapher, personally creating Quran manuscripts under the guidance of Syed Ali Tabrizi.
His focus was on preserving existing structures rather than building new ones. He supported mosque restorations and patronized Sufi dargahs, particularly those of saints like Bakhtiyar Kaki.
The Aftermath: Mughal Decline and European Influence
Aurangzeb died on March 3, 1707, at the age of 88. His death triggered a war of succession among his sons, further weakening the empire. Sir Jadunath Sarkar notes that this instability set the stage for the empire’s eventual collapse.
Key consequences of Aurangzeb’s policies included:
- Maratha dominance in large parts of the Deccan.
- Increased European intervention, especially by the British and Portuguese.
- Political fragmentation that led to the Mughal Empire’s downfall in the 18th century.
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