Understanding the Mughal Empire from the Unusual Perspective of Jahanara Begum

This volume in a series of world history case studies celebrates the life of the Mughal princess Jahanara-a woman who challenges Western stereotypes of Muslim women. Jahanara commanded significant power in the Mughal court, serving as mediator, confidant, benefactor and visionary. A noted poet, a deft businesswoman and a devoted Sufi, Jahanara combined practically with spirituality, thereby providing us with a unique window for understanding politics, economics, and religious conflicts mid-seventeenth century India. Her relationships with key family members, including Shah Jahan, Dara Shikoh, and Aurangzeb, receive special attention, thereby also illuminating seventeenth century India in a non-traditional way. This book is a volume in the Understanding World History Through Biography series. This book is a volume in the Understanding World History Through Biography series.