Queens who ruled India (2): Nur Jahan – the empress who ruled from behind a curtain

Full Episode description

At its height, the Mughal empire was the richest in the world. Akbar's son Jahangir ascended the throne after his death. Jahangir was addicted to opium and alcohol, amongst other things. His wife Nur Jahan won his confidence. She was a remarkable woman who managed to keep her husband away from many of his vices. Thanks to her courage and intelligence, she won the loyalty of the nobles in the court and thus wielded much power in the kingdom.

She was the only Mughal empress who issued coins in her name, imperial decrees with her signature, presided the court and took part in administration and foreign policy affairs of the state. Her excellent taste in art has left its indelible mark on Mughal architecture. She inspired one of the seven wonders of the world, in its design and use of materials. The tomb she built for her father is also called the Baby Taj, which you can find in Agra.

Co-host in this episode: Isabelle Abraham (11-yr old, Mumbai).

Reference

1. BBC video – How Nur Jahan ruled the world

2. Blog on Mughal women in maritime trade

3. Book: The Women who ruled India by Archana Garodia Gupta

4. William Dalrymple's Book Anarchy