Who among the following rulers introduced the ‘jharokha darshan’ in the Mughal dynasty?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Akbar.
The practice of ‘jharokha darshan’ was introduced by the Mughal emperor Akbar. It involved the emperor appearing at a special balcony, called a jharokha, every day to be seen by his subjects. This practice symbolized the emperor’s accessibility and connection to his people, reinforcing his role as a benevolent and visible ruler. It was a way for Akbar to maintain public presence and assert his authority while promoting loyalty among his subjects. This tradition was significant in Mughal governance and continued under some successors, reflecting the importance of the emperor’s relationship with his people in the empire.
Incorrect Options:
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Shah Jahan: Known for architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, he followed many Mughal traditions but did not introduce jharokha darshan; he inherited it from earlier rulers.
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Humayun: His reign was marked by instability and exile; he didn’t establish such ceremonial practices due to limited control and short rule.
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Aurangzeb: He opposed such practices as un-Islamic and discontinued jharokha darshan, aligning more strictly with orthodox Islamic principles.