Q.2 Examine the main aspects of Akbar’s religious syncretism. (UPSC CSE 2025, GS PAPER-1) (Answer in 150 words,10 Marks)

THE INTRODUCTION:

Akbar’s religious policies was marked by the religious tolerance and syncretism. Through this approach, he aimed to create an environment where diverse faiths could coexist and influence one another.

THE BODY

The main aspects of Akbar’s religious syncretism:

• • Sulh-i Kul (Universal Peace): The major principle of Akbar’s religious policy showcasing religious syncretism was based on policy of Sulh-i Kul. It aimed to achieve harmony and mutual respect among all his subjects, regardless of their faith.
  • Concept of Ibadat Khana: Akbar built the Ibadat Khana in Fatehpur Sikri to encourage dialogue and understand different faiths. He opened the debates to scholars from all faiths, including Hindus, Jains, Zoroastrians, and Christians.
  • Din-i-ilahi: Akbar formally introduced Din-i Ilahi, or Divine Faith in 1582 as a syncretic spiritual path for a select group of his close courtiers. It was a fusion of the ethical principles he had gathered from his discussions in the Ibadat Khana.
  • Abolition of discriminatory taxes: Another radical step taken by Abkar was abolition of discriminatory taxes to place all his subjects equally, regardless of religion. For example, he abolished the Jizya, a tax levied on non-Muslims, in 1564, and the pilgrimage tax on Hindus.
  • Cultural Synthesis: One of the major aspects of Akbar’s religious policy was cultural synthesis. To foster this, he appointed people from various religious backgrounds to high-ranking administrative and military positions. He also built matrimonial alliances by marrying Rajput princesses and allowing them to practice their religion in his palace.
  • Translation Department: He also established a translation department to foster a shared literary and intellectual heritage. Under this department, various Sanskrit works like the Mahabharata and Ramayana were translated into Persian.

However, there were certain limitations associated with such religious policies as well:

• • Failure of his policies: His major policies like establishment of Ibadat Khana and Din-i-ilahi could not produce the optimal results. It did not gain a large following and died out with Akbar’s death.
  • Rising of sectarian conflicts: These religious policies led to rise of sectarian conflicts and attack of orthodox elements like ulema.

THE CONCLUSION:

Akbar’s religious syncretism was a progressive policy to create harmony and mutual respect among all his subjects. His religious policies were motivated by both his personal quest for spiritual truth and a political need aimed at fostering a unified empire.