Aurangzeb
, born Abul Muzaffar Muhi-ud-Din Mohammad Aurangzeb, was the sixth Mughal Emperor of India, ruling from 1658 to 1707. His reign marked the peak of the Mughal Empire, dominating most of the Indian subcontinent. Aurangzeb was a deeply religious, pious, and conservative emperor, whose reign was characterized by his strict adherence to Islamic principles.\n\nAurangzeb's reign witnessed significant expansion of the Mughal Empire, as he conquered new territories in the Deccan, Maratha, and Assam regions. However, his aggressive military campaigns and intolerance towards other religions, especially Hinduism and Sikhism, led to widespread resistance and opposition.\n\nHis policies included the destruction of Hindu temples, imposition of jizya (a tax on non-Muslims), and forced conversions, which led to rebellions and instability in the empire. Aurangzeb also faced multiple conflicts with the powerful Marathas under the leadership of Shivaji and his successors.\n\nDuring his rule, Aurangzeb furthered the Mughal administration, patronized Islamic scholars, and implemented laws based on Sharia. The economy during his reign was characterized by increasing agrarian output, a stable currency, and flourishing trade. However, his uncompromising nature and authoritarian rule often led to discontent and unrest within the empire.\n\nDespite his achievements as a military leader and administrator, Aurangzeb's legacy remains highly debated, with critics often highlighting his religious intolerance and persecution of non-Muslims, which ultimately paved the way for the decline of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century.