Taj Bibi Bilqis Makani, Mughal empress (b. 1573)

Empress Jagat Gosain: Manavati Bai, Mother of Shah Jahan

Manavati Bai, a name that resonates with grace and power in the annals of Mughal history, is perhaps best known by her regal and spiritually imbued title, Jagat Gosain, which translates beautifully from Persian as 'Saint of the World'. Her life, spanning from May 13, 1573, to April 8, 1619, was profoundly significant, placing her at the heart of one of the world's most influential empires. As the Empress consort of the fourth Mughal emperor, Jahangir, she held a position of immense prestige and influence. Most notably, she bore him his successor, the future Emperor Shah Jahan, under whose magnificent reign the iconic Taj Mahal would famously be constructed, forever solidifying her lineage's place in history.

Her Numerous Names and Respected Titles

Beyond her primary title of Jagat Gosain, Manavati Bai was known by several other names and honorifics that reflected her evolving status and noble origins. She was often referred to simply as Mani Bai or Manmati. Her identity as a Rajput princess was recognized through the designation Jodh Bai, meaning 'Princess of Jodhpur', a title commonly associated with royal women from the Marwar region. Upon her elevation within the Mughal court, she also earned the affectionate title of Taj Bibi, or 'Lady of the Crown', signifying her esteemed position as an empress. Following her passing, she was bestowed with the deeply reverential posthumous title of Bilqis Makani, which translates to 'Lady of the Pure Abode', a profound honor indicating her revered status and the respect she commanded even after death.

Clarifying Historical Distinctions and Misconceptions

It is important for historical accuracy to address certain confusions surrounding Manavati Bai's identity. The Portuguese traveler Fray Sebastian Manrique, in his historical accounts, regrettably misidentified her as Balmati, an incorrect name that has occasionally led to historical inaccuracies. Furthermore, and crucially, Manavati Bai should not be confused with Mariam-uz-Zamani, who was Emperor Jahangir's mother and, consequently, Shah Jahan's grandmother. Mariam-uz-Zamani herself was also erroneously referred to as "Jodha Bai" by some European historians, adding another layer of misconception. These are two distinct and influential women, each playing a unique role in the Mughal dynasty, and differentiating between them is essential for a clear understanding of the period.

A Rajput Princess of Marwar: Her Illustrious Lineage

By birth, Manavati Bai was a distinguished Rajput princess of the Rathore clan, originating from Marwar, a powerful princely state located in what is now modern-day Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Her father was the formidable Raja Udai Singh, widely and respectfully known as 'Mota Raja' (meaning 'the Fat King' or 'the Great King'), who was a prominent Rathore ruler of Marwar. Her family connections further underscored her political significance; she was the full-sister of Sawai Raja Sur Singh, who succeeded their father as the Rathore ruler of Marwar, and also of Maharaja Kishan Singh, who later went on to establish the independent Rajput state of Kishangarh. Her marriage into the Mughal imperial family was a strategic alliance, characteristic of the period, which fostered strong ties between the powerful Rajput kingdoms and the expansive Mughal Empire, contributing to both political stability and a rich cultural exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Manavati Bai?

Manavati Bai was the Empress consort of the fourth Mughal emperor, Jahangir, and the biological mother of his successor, Emperor Shah Jahan.

What was her most famous title?

Her most famous title was Jagat Gosain, a Persian honorific meaning 'Saint of the World'.

Who were her parents?

She was the daughter of Raja Udai Singh, also known as Mota Raja, a Rathore ruler of Marwar (present-day Jodhpur).

Why is she sometimes confused with other historical figures?

She was mistakenly called Balmati by Fray Sebastian Manrique. More commonly, she is confused with Mariam-uz-Zamani (Jahangir's mother), who was also erroneously called "Jodha Bai" by some European historians.

From which region of India did she originate?

Manavati Bai was a Rajput princess from Marwar, a powerful princely state in present-day Rajasthan, with its historical capital at Jodhpur.