The Wealth and Lifestyle of Mughal Nobility in Ancient India
The Mughal period in India is remembered for its wealth, culture, and powerful ruling class. Among them, the Mughal nobility stood at the top of society. These nobles were not only administrators and military leaders, but they were also symbols of luxury, refinement, and cultural development.
During the early Mughal rule under Babur and Humayun, most nobles came from regions like Turan, Khurasan, and Central Asia. As Akbar expanded his empire, he included Indian Muslims known as Shaikhzadas and powerful Rajput chiefs into the nobility. By Aurangzeb’s time, Afghan nobles from the Deccan also became an important part of the ruling aristocracy. Even though the empire became more diverse, the Iranis and Turanis still formed the largest sections of the nobility.
Foreign travelers who visited Mughal India were amazed at the prosperity of its cities. Monserrate wrote in 1581 that Lahore could match any city in Asia or Europe. Another visitor, Finch, said that Agra and Lahore were larger than London. Cities like Surat, Ahmadabad, Benares, and Patna impressed visitors with their beauty, wealth, and active trade.
The lifestyle of the Mughal nobles was luxurious. They lived in huge mansions surrounded by gardens, fountains, and beautiful architecture. Their homes were decorated with silk curtains, costly carpets, expensive furniture, and fine artworks. Some nobles, like Abul Fazl, even had around a hundred dishes prepared for their meals every day. They enjoyed imported fruits, wines, and even ice throughout the year, which was considered a rare luxury.
Nobles also spent heavily on maintaining large stables filled with elephants, horses, camels, and mules. Their travel carriages were decorated with gold, silk, and fine woodwork. Clothing was another sign of status. They wore garments made from silk, brocade, velvet, and Kashmiri shawls. Jewelry was common among both men and women, and from Jahangir’s time, even men started wearing pearl earrings.
Social customs like polygamy and divorce were more common among wealthy nobles. Women lived under the purdah system, staying within the household away from the public eye. Mughal nobles followed strict etiquette, and hospitality was an important part of their culture. Guests were welcomed with betel leaves and entertained with games like polo and elephant fights.
Many nobles supported art and literature by giving financial help to poets, musicians, and painters. Wealthy nobles also donated land, built mosques, sarais (inns), water tanks, and markets for public use. However, as their hunger for wealth increased, corruption also became common. Many officials accepted bribes or sold important government posts. Yet, some nobles continued to work for the welfare of society.
In conclusion, the Mughal nobility played a major role in shaping the culture and administration of ancient India. Their grand lifestyle showed the richness of the Mughal Empire, while their patronage of art and architecture helped create a lasting cultural legacy.