CAPF 2020

Ideology of the Mughal State

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Consider the following statements about sulh-i kul : 1. It means 'absolute peace'. 2. It provided freedom of expression to all religions. 3. The ideal was implemented through state policies.

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept 'Sulh-i-Kul' was the ideological engine of the Akbari state. It allowed a small minority ruling class to govern a massive, multi-religious population by positioning the Emperor as the protector of all faiths.

Explanation Sulh-i-Kul translates to 'Absolute Peace'. It wasn't just a philosophy; it was a practical directive that guaranteed freedom of expression for all religions, provided they did not challenge state authority. This ideal was codified into law through the abolition of Jizya and the inclusion of diverse elites in the administration.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It removed the 'Islamic state' label and turned the Mughals into a 'Neutral state' regarding personal faith.
Logic 2: Since the policy was integrated into court appointments and taxation, it qualifies as an implemented state policy, not just a royal whim.

Active Recall

Question

What was the limitation of freedom under Sulh-i-Kul?

Answer

Subjects were free to practice their religion as long as they didn't undermine state power or incite civil conflict.

Core Insight

Sulh-i-Kul was a survival strategy; Akbar realized an empire as diverse as India could not be held together by religious force.