The Mughal Empire was one of the most influential and powerful dynasties in South Asian history. Spanning over three centuries, it gave rise to some of the most remarkable rulers whose real names, reign periods, and contributions shaped the culture, architecture, and administration of the Indian subcontinent. From the construction of the Grand Trunk Road by Sher Shah Suri to the rich legacy of art and governance by emperors like Akbar and Shah Jahan, this table provides a concise yet informative look at the major Mughal emperors and their historical significance.
| Mughal Emperor | Real Name | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Babar | Zahir-ud-din Muhammad | Founder of Mughal Empire in India, won the First Battle of Panipat (1526) |
| Humayun | Nasir-ud-din Muhammad | Lost empire to Sher Shah Suri, later restored it with Persian help |
| Akbar | Jalal-ud-din Muhammad | Expanded empire, established administrative reforms and religious tolerance (Din-i-Ilahi) |
| Jahangir | Nur-ud-din Muhammad | Promoted art and architecture, known for justice and painting |
| Shah Jahan | Khurram | Built Taj Mahal, Red Fort; golden age of Mughal architecture |
| Aurangzeb | Muhi-ud-din Muhammad | Expanded empire to largest extent, strict on Islamic laws |
| Bahadur Shah Zafar | Mirza Abu Zafar Sirajuddin | Last Mughal emperor, exiled after 1857 Revolt |
| Sher Shah Suri | Farid Khan | Built GT Road, introduced land reforms, currency system |
| Akbar | Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar | Introduced Din-i-Ilahi; reformed tax and religious policies. |
| Jahangir | Nur-ud-din Muhammad Salim | Known for justice, architecture, and love of art. |
| Shah Jahan | Shahab-ud-din Muhammad Khurram | Built Taj Mahal and Red Fort; golden age of art. |
| Aurangzeb | Muhi-ud-din Muhammad | Empire expanded most; enforced strict Islamic laws. |
| Bahadur Shah I | Muazzam | Power declined after Aurangzeb’s death. |
| Farrukhsiyar | Farrukhsiyar | Allowed British to trade freely in Bengal. |
| Shah Alam II | Ali Gauhar | Nominal rule; British began gaining control. |
| Bahadur Shah Zafar | Abu Zafar Siraj-ud-din Muhammad | Last emperor; poet; exiled after 1857 Revolt. |
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