Deaths on January 22

Shah Jahan, Mughal emperor (b. 1592)

Shahab-ud-din Muhammad Khurram, born on 5 January 1592 and passing away on 22 January 1666, is globally renowned by his majestic regnal name, Shah Jahan (pronounced [ʃɑːh d͡ʒa'hɑːn]), a Persian title literally translating to 'King of the World'. As the fifth Mughal emperor of India, his illustrious reign spanned from 1628 to 1658, marking a pivotal era in the subcontinent's history. Descended from a lineage that included the revered Akbar and his father Jahangir, Shah Jahan inherited a vast and powerful empire, further elevating it during his rule.

Historians, including J. L. Mehta, often describe Shah Jahan's reign as the zenith of the Mughal Empire's glory. This period witnessed unprecedented economic prosperity, cultural efflorescence, and territorial consolidation, allowing the empire to project immense power and influence across the Indian subcontinent and beyond. The Mughal treasury swelled, reflecting the empire's vast wealth derived from its agricultural richness and sophisticated trade networks.

The Golden Age of Mughal Architecture

Shah Jahan's indelible legacy is predominantly etched in his extraordinary architectural achievements, a period widely hailed as the 'Golden Age of Mughal Architecture'. His patronage fostered a distinctive style characterized by the lavish use of white marble, intricate inlay work known as Pietra Dura, and a harmonious fusion of Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural traditions. These grand projects not only served functional purposes but also symbolized the empire's immense power, wealth, and sophisticated artistic sensibilities.

• The Taj Mahal, Agra: Undoubtedly his most iconic commission, the Taj Mahal is a breathtaking white marble mausoleum located in Agra. It was built between 1631 and 1653 in memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Banu Begum, who was known by her title Mumtaz Mahal (Persian for 'Jewel of the Palace'). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and often cited as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal stands as an eternal testament to profound love and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. It embodies perfect symmetry and exquisite detailing, drawing millions of visitors annually.
• Red Fort (Lal Qila), Delhi: This magnificent red sandstone fortress in Delhi served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1638, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive walls, gates, and intricate internal structures like the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).
• Jama Masjid, Delhi: One of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid was completed in 1656. Its grand scale, towering minarets, and three large domes are characteristic of Shah Jahan's architectural ambitions, capable of accommodating tens of thousands of worshippers.
• Shalimar Gardens, Lahore: Located in present-day Pakistan, these exquisite Persian gardens were built in 1641-42. They are celebrated for their intricate design, terraced lawns, fountains, and pavilions, reflecting the Mughal fascination with paradisiacal gardens.

The profound romantic narrative surrounding Shah Jahan's devotion to Mumtaz Mahal, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal, has been extensively immortalized and adapted across various forms of Indian art, literature, and cinema, making it a timeless tale of love.

Immense Wealth and Imperial Opulence

Shah Jahan presided over a royal treasury that was legendary for its opulence and contained some of the world's most valuable precious stones. Among these was the fabled Kohinoor diamond, a jewel steeped in history and myth. His reign is often associated with unparalleled wealth, leading some historians to regard him as one of the wealthiest individuals in history. A significant symbol of his immense affluence was the Peacock Throne (Takht-e-Tavus), a jewel-encrusted throne crafted from gold, diamonds, emeralds, and other precious gems, which was estimated to be worth millions at the time and incorporated the Kohinoor. The empire's GDP under his rule constituted a substantial portion of the global economy, further cementing its reputation for extraordinary wealth.

Ascension to the Throne and Political Landscape

The death of his father, Emperor Jahangir, in late 1627, plunged the Mughal Empire into a brutal war of succession. This fierce conflict erupted among Jahangir's sons, primarily between Shahryar and Khurram (Shah Jahan). Shah Jahan, through strategic brilliance and ruthless determination, emerged decisively victorious from this power struggle. Demonstrating the brutal realities of Mughal succession, he systematically eliminated all his rivals for the throne, consolidating his power. On January 24, 1628, he formally crowned himself emperor in Agra, officially adopting the regnal title "Shah Jahan," a title originally bestowed upon him by Jahangir following his successful military campaigns in the Deccan.

His rule was characterized by significant military endeavors and diplomatic engagements:

• Safavid Conflict: Shah Jahan engaged in protracted conflicts with the Safavid Empire of Persia, primarily over control of the strategic city of Qandahar (Kandahar), a vital trade and military outpost.
• Deccan Campaigns: He launched aggressive campaigns against the Shia Deccan Sultanates (Ahmednagar, Bijapur, and Golconda), successfully annexing Ahmednagar and compelling Bijapur and Golconda to acknowledge Mughal suzerainty, expanding Mughal influence significantly southwards.
• Conflict with the Portuguese: Shah Jahan’s forces notably expelled the Portuguese from their trading post at Hooghly in Bengal in 1632, asserting Mughal sovereignty and control over maritime trade.
• Ottoman Relations: The Mughal Empire maintained generally positive diplomatic relations with the Ottoman Empire, exchanging envoys and gifts, fostering a relationship of mutual respect between two of the world's great Islamic empires.

Domestically, Shah Jahan’s reign also faced challenges, including the suppression of numerous rebellions, such as the Bundela rebellion in Orchha. More devastating was the severe famine that struck parts of Gujarat and the Deccan between 1630 and 1632, causing widespread death and hardship. The imperial administration's response to this crisis, though initially slow, eventually included measures like setting up soup kitchens and tax remissions.

The War of Succession and Final Years

In September 1657, Shah Jahan fell gravely ill, precipitating another brutal war of succession among his four sons: Dara Shikoh (his eldest and favored heir), Shah Shuja, Aurangzeb, and Murad Bakhsh. This fratricidal conflict, marked by shifting alliances, betrayals, and fierce battles, saw his third son, Aurangzeb, emerge victorious. Aurangzeb, a shrewd military strategist and astute politician, systematically defeated his brothers and usurped his father's throne.

Despite recovering from his illness, Shah Jahan was placed under house arrest by Emperor Aurangzeb in the Agra Fort from July 1658 until his death on 22 January 1666. During his confinement, it is said he spent his final years gazing upon the Taj Mahal, the eternal monument to his beloved wife. Upon his death, Shah Jahan was laid to rest beside Mumtaz Mahal in the crypt of the Taj Mahal, forever united with her in their magnificent mausoleum.

Religious Policies and Legacy

Shah Jahan's reign marked a notable shift from the more liberal and syncretic policies initiated by his grandfather, Emperor Akbar. While Akbar championed 'Sulh-e-Kul' (universal peace) and religious tolerance, even abolishing the Jizya (poll tax on non-Muslims), Shah Jahan, an orthodox Muslim, began to reverse some of these policies. His era saw a move towards a more conservative Islamic approach in state affairs. It was during his time that influential Islamic revivalist movements, such as the Naqshbandi order, began to significantly shape Mughal policies and courtly attitudes, influencing subsequent rulers, most notably his son Aurangzeb, who would further embrace an orthodox Sunni stance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shah Jahan

When did Shah Jahan rule the Mughal Empire?

Shah Jahan reigned as the fifth Mughal emperor of India from 1628 to 1658.

What is Shah Jahan most famous for?

Shah Jahan is most famous for his monumental architectural achievements, particularly commissioning the Taj Mahal, which is widely considered the pinnacle of Mughal architecture and a global symbol of love and beauty.

Who was Mumtaz Mahal?

Mumtaz Mahal was Shah Jahan's favorite wife, whose death led him to construct the magnificent Taj Mahal as her mausoleum. Her full name was Arjumand Banu Begum.

Was Shah Jahan considered one of the wealthiest rulers in history?

Yes, Shah Jahan is often regarded as one of the wealthiest individuals in history, presiding over a vast and prosperous Mughal Empire that controlled immense wealth and possessed legendary treasures like the Kohinoor diamond and the Peacock Throne.

How did Shah Jahan's reign end?

Shah Jahan's reign ended after he fell seriously ill in 1657, which triggered a war of succession among his sons. His third son, Aurangzeb, emerged victorious, usurped the throne, and placed Shah Jahan under house arrest in Agra Fort until his death in 1666.

How did Shah Jahan's religious policies differ from Emperor Akbar's?

Shah Jahan, an orthodox Muslim, began to reverse some of the liberal and religiously tolerant policies of his grandfather Akbar, who promoted 'Sulh-e-Kul' (universal peace) and abolished the Jizya tax. Shah Jahan's reign saw a shift towards a more conservative Islamic approach, influenced by revivalist movements like the Naqshbandi order.