1. Aurangzeb had compiled the greatest digest of Islamic Law called

Aurangzeb had compiled the greatest digest of Islamic Law called

Fatawa-i-Alamgiri
Fatawa-i-Jahandari
Miraz-i-Mughals
Fatah-i-Saltan
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CISF-AC-EXE – 2019
Aurangzeb (reigned 1658-1707) commissioned the compilation of a comprehensive legal code based on Islamic law (Sharia), specifically following the Hanafi school of jurisprudence, which was prevalent in the Indian subcontinent. This massive work, compiled by several hundred Islamic scholars over years, was named Fatawa-i-Alamgiri (Decrees of Alamgir), after Aurangzeb’s regnal title ‘Alamgir’. It became a standard legal reference in Mughal India.
– Compiled during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb.
– It is a comprehensive digest of Islamic law.
– Based on the Hanafi school of jurisprudence.
– Named after Aurangzeb’s title, ‘Alamgir’.
The Fatawa-i-Alamgiri was a monumental effort aimed at providing a standardized legal framework for the administration of justice in the Mughal Empire according to the prevailing Islamic legal tradition. It served as the main legal authority in British India until the enactment of modern codes like the Indian Penal Code. Fatawa-i-Jahandari is a historical and political treatise written by Ziauddin Barani during the Delhi Sultanate period, not a legal digest compiled by Aurangzeb.

2. Which of the following statements about the Bundela rebellion against

Which of the following statements about the Bundela rebellion against Aurangzeb are correct ?

  • 1. Shivaji advised Chhatrasal to promote local risings against Aurangzeb
  • 2. Chhatrasal levied chauth like marathas
  • 3. In 1705, Aurangzeb decided to make peace with Chhatrasal and granted mansab of four-thousand

Select the answer using the code given below :

1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2024
Let’s evaluate the statements about the Bundela rebellion against Aurangzeb, specifically regarding Chhatrasal:
1. Shivaji advised Chhatrasal to promote local risings against Aurangzeb: This statement is supported by historical tradition. It is widely believed that Chhatrasal met Shivaji Maharaj in the Deccan around 1670 and was inspired by his example. Shivaji is said to have encouraged Chhatrasal to return to his homeland (Bundelkhand) and lead a rebellion against the Mughals there, rather than serving the Mughal Empire or joining Shivaji’s campaigns in the south.
2. Chhatrasal levied *chauth* like Marathas: Chhatrasal established an independent kingdom in Bundelkhand through his rebellion against Mughal rule. He did levy taxes and contributions from areas under his control and influence, similar to the Maratha practice of demanding *chauth* (a share of revenue). While the specific term *chauth* is more strongly associated with the Marathas, the practice of extracting tribute was common among regional powers challenging central authority. Sources indicate Chhatrasal levied taxes akin to Maratha demands.
3. In 1705, Aurangzeb decided to make peace with Chhatrasal and granted *mansab* of four-thousand: This is correct. Facing numerous challenges across his vast empire, including the protracted Deccan campaign, Aurangzeb attempted to pacify or enlist various regional powers. Around 1705, recognizing Chhatrasal’s strength in Bundelkhand, Aurangzeb granted him a *mansab* of 4000 and acknowledged his position, bringing a temporary cessation to hostilities between them.
All three statements are historically accurate.
Chhatrasal Bundela was a significant figure who challenged Mughal authority under Aurangzeb in Bundelkhand, influenced by Shivaji, and eventually gained concessions from the emperor.
Chhatrasal continued to expand his territory after Aurangzeb’s death. He later received support from the Marathas, particularly Baji Rao I, when his kingdom was threatened by the Mughal governor Muhammad Khan Bangash.