Akbar

Akbar extended the reach of the Mughal dynasty across the Indian subcontinent and consolidated the empire by centralizing its administration and incorporating non-Muslims (especially the Hindu Rajputs) into the empire’s fabric. Although his grandfather Bābur began the Mughal conquest, it was Akbar who entrenched the empire over its vast and diverse territory.

Akbar was Muslim but took an active interest in the various religions of his realm, including Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, and Christianity, in his efforts to consolidate the diverse empire and to promulgate religious tolerance. He sidelined the typically powerful ʿulamāʾ and formulated an eclectic state-sponsored religious movement known as Dīn-i Ilāhī.

Akbar succeeded his father Humāyūn when he was 13, although not easily. Humāyūn had barely established his authority after regaining his throne the year before he died. Akbar’s accession could not be assured for some time after his father’s death, but his authority was eventually consolidated under the guidance of his chief minister Bayram Khan.