The construction of the Taj Mahal serves as the primary legacy of the fifth Mughal Emperor, who claimed the throne in 1628. Born at Lahore Fort in 1592 as Khurram, he ascended to power after defeating rival claimants including his brother Shahryar Mirza, eventually presiding over a reign defined by extensive architectural expansion and shifting imperial policies.
Rise to Power
As the son of Jahangir, Khurram initially focused on military campaigns against the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar and Deccan nobles. Following his father's death in October 1627, he secured the throne at Agra Fort. His path to absolute authority involved the systematic elimination of his brothers and other rivals to ensure his uncontested rule. During his tenure, he navigated complex foreign affairs, including conflicts with the Portuguese and Safavids, while addressing internal crises such as the devastating Deccan famine that persisted from 1630 to 1632.
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His administration is noted for significant monumental commissions, most famously the Taj Mahal, which holds the remains of his consort Mumtaz Mahal. Beyond this mausoleum, he oversaw the development of the Red Fort and the Shah Jahan Mosque. His court moved away from the liberal governance practiced by his grandfather, Akbar, as movements like the Naqshbandi began influencing Mughal policy. His linguistic proficiency included Persian, Hindustani, Arabic, and Chagatai.
Deposition and Final Years
In 1657, the aging monarch identified his eldest son, Dara Shikoh, as his successor. This decision precipitated a violent war of succession between his sons. Aurangzeb eventually secured victory, declaring himself the sixth emperor in 1658 and executing his brothers. Following a period of illness, the former emperor was confined by Aurangzeb to the Agra Fort. He remained in captivity there from July 1658 until his death in 1666, at which point he was buried within the Taj Mahal.
Fast facts
- Full name: Shahab-ud-Din Muhammad Khurram
- Born: 1592, Lahore Fort
- Reign: 1628–1658
- Died: 1666, Agra Fort
- Primary burial site: Taj Mahal
- Languages spoken: Persian, Hindustani, Arabic, Chagatai
- Successor: Aurangzeb
Questions readers ask
How did Shah Jahan lose his power?
He was deposed by his son Aurangzeb in 1658 following a brutal war of succession among the royal brothers.
Where did Shah Jahan spend his final years?
He was imprisoned by his son in the Agra Fort from 1658 until his death in 1666.
Achievements
- Mughal emperor (1628–1658)
