Early Life and Education Born on October 3, 1618, in Dahod, Gujarat, Aurangzeb was the son of Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. His early life was marked by turmoil and tragedy. His mother, Mumtaz Mahal, died during the birth of his younger brother, Gauhar Ara Begum, in 1637. This event had a profound impact on Aurangzeb, shaping his worldview and influencing his future actions.

Dara Shikoh, the eldest son, was considered the most likely heir to the throne. However, his liberal and eclectic views, which blended Islamic and Hindu philosophies, created tension among the orthodox Muslim clergy and conservative nobles. Aurangzeb, on the other hand, was seen as a devout Muslim and a skilled military leader, making him a strong contender for the throne. In 1657, Shah Jahan’s health deteriorated, and the war of succession began in earnest. The four brothers formed alliances and gathered their forces, preparing for a brutal struggle. Aurangzeb, who had been governing the Deccan region, quickly marched towards the capital, Delhi, with his loyal troops.

As we conclude this first episode of Aurangzeb Alamgir’s story, it is clear that his rise to power was shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including his family background, education, and military prowess. The controversies and challenges that defined his reign would only intensify in the years to come, as he sought to consolidate his power and leave a lasting legacy.

The war of succession was marked by battles, sieges, and betrayals. Aurangzeb’s military campaigns were characterized by their speed, strategy, and ruthlessness. He defeated his brother Shah Shuja in the Battle of Kara in 1659 and later captured and executed his brother Murad Bakhsh. The decisive battle took place on May 29, 1657, at Samugarh, near Agra. Aurangzeb’s forces clashed with those of Dara Shikoh, resulting in a crushing defeat for the latter. Dara Shikoh was captured and eventually executed in 1659, paving the way for Aurangzeb’s ascension to the throne. The Coronation of Aurangzeb Alamgir On June 10, 1658, Aurangzeb was crowned emperor at the Red Fort in Delhi, taking the title of Alamgir, meaning “World Conqueror.” His reign would be marked by significant military campaigns, administrative reforms, and cultural developments.

Aurangzeb received a traditional Islamic education, studying the Quran, Arabic, and Persian literature. He was also trained in martial arts and military tactics, preparing him for a life of politics and warfare. As a young prince, Aurangzeb demonstrated exceptional intelligence, courage, and strategic thinking, earning the respect of his father and the admiration of his peers. As Aurangzeb grew older, the Mughal Empire was plagued by a succession crisis. Shah Jahan’s health began to decline, and the question of who would succeed him became increasingly pressing. The four sons of Shah Jahan - Aurangzeb, Dara Shikoh, Shah Shuja, and Murad Bakhsh - had distinct personalities, skills, and ambitions, making the succession a contentious issue.