Question

What policies did Akbar follow to transform the Islamic state into a secular one and unite the diverse races in the country into a single nation based on equality?

Answer 1

Akbar took the following steps to transform the Islamic state into a secular one and unite the diverse races in the country into a single nation based on equality:

1. He abolished the Jizya tax, which was imposed by earlier Muslim rulers on all non-Muslim subjects and the pilgrim tax imposed on Hindus visiting places of pilgrimage.
2. He allowed Hindus to build temples, celebrate festivals, and worship freely. He even allowed his Hindu wives to celebrate festivals like Holi and Diwali.
3. He gave high posts to talented and competent Hindus in his court; examples are Todar Mai, Birbal, and Raja Bhagwan Das.
4. He married Rajput princesses and allowed them freedom of worship.
5. He granted land to all individuals irrespective of their religious faith.