Aurangzeb’s Deccan folly ignites India — 300 years later

Aurangzeb's grave in Maharashtra faces demands for removal amid rising tensions linked to historical grievances, ignited by recent films and protests.

Pune/Khuldabad There is an illuminating story about Aurangzeb in Harbans Mukhia’s The Mughals of India: Soon after he had his brother Dara Shikoh murdered, the newly crowned emperor sent a proposal of marriage to Dara Shikoh’s favourite concubine Rana-i-Dil (heart’s glory). “What part of me appeals the most to you?” she sent back a message, writes Mukhia. “Your hair is the eye’s delight,” replied the smitten Mughal. Rana-i-Dil chopped off her hair and sent it back on a platter.

The Deccan campaign was, in the end, a tragedy for Aurangzeb too. Unlike in the north, where Mughal rule was entrenched, the south was a frontier, says Audrey Truschke. (HT Photo)