Who Was Secular Mughals or Marathas?

Comparative Analysis of Mughals vs. Marathas in Context of Religious Freedoms

The Mughals and the Marathas were two of the most powerful political entities in Indian history. Their approach to religious freedom differed significantly, shaped by their policies, governance style, and socio-political conditions. Below is a comparative analysis of the religious freedoms under both empires.

1. Foundation and Ideological Basis

  • Mughals: The Mughal Empire was founded by Babur in 1526. The early Mughals, particularly Akbar, promoted a syncretic culture, but later rulers, such as Aurangzeb, imposed stricter Islamic policies.
  • Marathas: The Maratha Empire, founded by Shivaji in the 17th century, was rooted in Hindu traditions but practiced a broad policy of religious tolerance, influenced by their need to unify diverse communities against Mughal rule.

2. Religious Policies

Mughals

  • Akbar (1556-1605): Known for religious tolerance, abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims, promoted the Din-i Ilahi (a syncretic religious movement), and appointed Hindus to high positions.
  • Jahangir & Shah Jahan (1605-1658): Continued Akbar’s policies but with occasional restrictions on temples and non-Muslim practices.
  • Aurangzeb (1658-1707): Re-imposed the jizya tax, demolished Hindu temples (such as the Kashi Vishwanath and Keshava Deo temples), and enforced stricter Sharia-based laws, leading to religious oppression.

Marathas

  • Shivaji (1630-1680): Practiced religious tolerance, respected all faiths, and provided protection to mosques and Muslim saints. He appointed Muslims in high positions (e.g., Siddi Ibrahim Khan as an admiral).
  • Later Marathas (18th Century): Continued the policy of religious tolerance, did not impose religious taxes like jizya, and allowed all communities to flourish under their rule.

3. Treatment of Religious Institutions

  • Mughals: While Akbar patronized Hindu temples, Aurangzeb ordered their destruction, replacing some with mosques.
  • Marathas: Unlike the Mughals, the Marathas patronized Hindu temples but also protected mosques. During their campaigns, they sought to rebuild temples that were demolished by Aurangzeb.

4. Freedom of Worship

  • Mughals:
    • Under Akbar, religious debates were encouraged at the Ibadat Khana in Fatehpur Sikri.
    • Under Aurangzeb, public Hindu festivals like Holi and Diwali were restricted, and Hindu processions were controlled.
  • Marathas:
    • No restrictions on religious festivals for Hindus, Muslims, or others.
    • Shivaji ensured that Islamic practices were not interfered with, and Muslim festivals were observed freely.

5. Religious Representation in Administration

  • Mughals:
    • Akbar promoted Hindus like Todar Mal and Man Singh.
    • Aurangzeb removed many non-Muslims from administrative positions.
  • Marathas:
    • Appointed Muslims in key roles (e.g., Siddi Ibrahim Khan, Haider Ali Kohari).
    • Allowed regional autonomy for religious minorities.

6. Summary: Who Provided More Religious Freedom?

  • Under Akbar (Mughals): Religious freedom flourished, with Hindus and Muslims treated equally.
  • Under Aurangzeb (Mughals): Religious intolerance increased significantly.
  • Under Shivaji and the Marathas: A consistent policy of religious tolerance was maintained, allowing all communities to coexist.

Overall, the Marathas ensured broader religious freedoms compared to the later Mughals, particularly under Aurangzeb.

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