SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 97

The correct answer is Option 4: Aurangzeb.
Explanation:

• In the history of the Mughal Empire, Aurangzeb is considered the 'last powerful' Mughal Emperor. Following his reign, the decline of the Mughal Empire began rapidly.
• Vast Empire: During Aurangzeb's time, the Mughal Empire was at the zenith of its expansion. He ruled over a territory stretching from Kashmir in the north to Jinji in the south, and from Ghazni in the west to Chittagong in the east.
• Last Great Emperor: All the Mughal rulers who succeeded Aurangzeb (after his death in 1707 AD) came to be known as the 'Later Mughals'; they were significantly weaker and unable to preserve their empire.
• Reign: He ruled for approximately 49 years (1658–1707).

Sequence of the Mughal Dynasty (Quick Revision):

• As you prepare for SSC, RRB, and state-level examinations, it is crucial to memorize this sequence of the key Mughal rulers:
• Babur (Option 1): Founder of the Mughal Empire (1526).
• Humayun: Son of Babur.
• Akbar (Option 2): A great ruler who brought stability and administrative strength to the empire.
• Jahangir: Famous for the 'Chain of Justice' (*Zanjir-i-Adl*).
• Shah Jahan (Option 3): The 'Golden Age' of architecture (builder of the Taj Mahal).
• Aurangzeb (Option 4): The last powerful ruler.
• Points to Note:
• The Last Mughal Emperor: If the word 'powerful' is omitted from the question, and it simply asks for the 'last Mughal Emperor,' the answer would be Bahadur Shah Zafar (Bahadur Shah II), whom the British exiled to Rangoon following the Revolution of 1857.

Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: By what other name was Aurangzeb known?
Answer: 'Zinda Pir' (The Living Saint).
Question: The reign of which Mughal Emperor is referred to as the 'Golden Age' of architecture?
Answer: Shah Jahan. Question: Between whom was the First Battle of Panipat (1526) fought?
Answer: Babur and Ibrahim Lodi.