What were the distinctive features of the Mughal nobility? How was their relationship with the emperor shaped?

(a) The most important pillar of the Mughal state was its nobility. Owing to several factors, the Mughal nobility was a heterogenous body composed of diverse ethnic and religious groups.

(b) This ensured that no faction became large or powerful enough to challange the authority of the state. The nobility has been aptly described as a bouquet of flowers held together by loyalty to the emperor.

(c)    In Akbar’s time Turani and Iranian nobles were prominent. Many had accompanied Humayun while others seeking lucrative careers migrated later to the Mughal court.

(d)    Two groups of Indian origin entered the ranks of Mughal nobility from 1560 onwards— The Rajputs and the Indian Muslims. The first Rajput chief to join was Raja Bharmal Kachhwaha of Amber whose daughter was married to Akbar.

(e)    People who excelled in either education or accountancy were also inducted into the ranks of the nobility. The most famous example was that of Akbar’s finance minister Raja Todarmal who belonged to the Khatri caste.

(f)    Iranians prospered during Jahangir’s reign because his favourite Iranian wife Nurjahan furthered their cause. Aurangzeb continued the policy of appointing Rajputs to high positions. In an attempt to solve the problems in the Deccan Aurengzeb inducted the Marathas into the nobility in large numbers.

(g)    In theory the nobility was not hereditary but purely official in character. A noble had only a life interest in his jagir which reverted to the crown on his death. As a result, the nobles led extravagent lives and squandered away their money. It also prevented the development of an independent hereditary peerage independent of the whims and fancy of the king.

(h)    During the 18th century the character of the nobility deteriorated and they ceased to discharge any useful functions. They became eager for self-advancement which was to plunge the empire into bitter civil wars, confusion and anarchy.