Medieval and Islamic History

Qutlugnigar Khanum was the mother of Babur and a princess of the Chagatai Khanate.

Babur was invited to India by Daulat Khan Lodi and others to overthrow Ibrahim Lodi, the last ruler of the Lodi dynasty.

Shah Jahan's birth name was Khurram, which means 'joyful' in Persian.

Shaibani Khan was the leader of the Uzbeks and a formidable rival who repeatedly challenged Babur for control of Samarqand. Babur's early career was defined by his struggle against Shaibani Khan's expanding power in Central Asia.

Akbar the Great's tomb is located in Sikandra, which is a suburb of Agra. It is a significant example of Mughal architecture, blending various styles.

Nadir Shah, the ruler of Persia, invaded India in 1739. During his sack of Delhi, he looted the Mughal treasury, taking both the Peacock Throne and the Koh-i-noor diamond.

Humayun died in 1556 after falling down the stairs of his library, Sher Mandal, in the Purana Qila complex in Delhi. This event is well-documented in Mughal historical accounts.

Mumtaz Mahal was born as Arjumand Bano Begum. She was the daughter of Asaf Khan and became the beloved wife of Shah Jahan.

Babur wrote his autobiography, the Baburnama (also known as Tuzuk-i-Baburi), in his native language, Chaghatai Turki. It is a vital primary source for the history of the period.

Babur was a devoted follower of the Naqshbandi Sufi order, which was very influential in Central Asia during his time. His family had long-standing ties to this order.

Akbar had great reverence for the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who resided in Sikri. Akbar credited the birth of his son, Jahangir, to the saint's blessings.

Mahabat Khan, a powerful general under Jahangir, staged a coup and briefly held the Emperor captive in 1626. This event is known as the coup of Mahabat Khan.

Dara Shikoh was the eldest son of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. He was a scholar and the intended successor to the throne before the war of succession.

Jahangir is famous for establishing the 'Chain of Justice' (Zanjir-i-Adl) at his palace, which allowed common citizens to seek direct justice from the Emperor.

Bairam Khan served as the loyal regent and tutor to Akbar during his early years after Humayun's death. He was instrumental in securing Akbar's position during the Second Battle of Panipat.