Dara Shukoh: A Forgotten Prince

During moments of downcast, my blog becomes my sanctuary, revitalizing my spirit and reconnecting me with my essence. Today, I extend a warm welcome to my readers. One profound realization that has recently dawned upon me is my unwavering commitment to preserving the authenticity of subjects, much like I cherish a quaint eatery serving delectable dishes or an overlooked time-worn monument. Just as I believe in savoring the unaltered essence of these experiences, I approach my blog with the same reverence, allowing its inherent charm to shine through, even in the company of a select few dedicated readers.

The above image is of the Partition Museum and Dara Shukoh Library Building and the image below is of the unmarked grave of Dara Shukoh at Humayun's Tomb

This time, I've delved even deeper into a captivating subject that I believe my readers will thoroughly enjoy – Dara Shukoh. Rather than delving into the academic intricacies of his life, such as the history of the Dara Shukoh Library or the various interpretations by historians, I've aimed to present it in a simple yet engaging manner.

Did you know that after Shah Jahan's rule, the heir-apparent was Dara Shukoh instead of Aurangzeb? Dara, an erudite scholar, is credited with translating major Hindu religious texts into Persian, which had a significant impact on the Middle East and Europe. He curated one of the most extensive libraries of the medieval era, housing texts from diverse corners of the world. A bibliophile since childhood and an over-achieving scholar, he is also renowned as one of the most pacifist Mughal rulers, fostering warm relationships with Hindus and various segments of society.

One can't help but wonder: What if Dara Shukoh had ascended the Mughal throne instead of Aurangzeb? How might it have shaped India's present-day landscape? These are questions that invite contemplation.

My inspiration to write about Dara Shukoh, as well as my visit to his library (his former residence) and his grave, was ignited by a recent read: "Dara Shukoh: The Man Who Would Be King" by Avik Chanda. I also drew insights from "The Emperor Who Never Was: Dara Shukoh in Mughal India" by Supriya Gandhi. However, it was the former that kindled my motivation to craft this blog.

As soon as I completed my book, I decided to venture upon the last remaining proofs of the forgotten Prince and I alone stepped out around noon to discover and explore the same. 

Dara Shukoh: The Man Who would be King by Avik Chanda

In the 17th century, during the construction of Shahjahanabad, an extraordinary mansion was erected for the expected Emperor-to-be, Dara Shukoh, known as Manzil-e-Nigambodh. This location was Dara's preferred choice for building an expansive library adjacent to the Nigambodh Ghat.

Dara Shukoh, the cherished elder son of Shah Jahan, always held a special place in the Emperor's heart, receiving precedence over his siblings. Nestled within the verdant grounds of Ambedkar University amid the vibrant atmosphere of Old Delhi, what remains today are mere fragments of the residence belonging to one of the Mughal Kingdom's most beloved and anticipated rulers.

Over time, this residence fell into the hands of the British, who made substantial alterations to its structure, resulting in the loss of its original grandeur. Even during the raid by Nadir Shah in 1739, the mansion suffered severe damage, and all its scholarly treasures were reduced to ashes.

Entrance to the Ambedkar University where the library is situated.

As you walk down the road, one can spot the Library which is also converted into the  Partition Museum in 2019.

The side view of the Library. 

The most unfortunate thing I found when I visited there is the conversion of the Library into the Partition Museum. Although library and museums co-exist with each other, I went to witness the remains of the structure where one of the most powerful and stalwart heir of the Peacock Throne spent his days. I faced constant battle because at one sight there was the luring Partition Museum and the other sight is the structure of the museum whose history dates way back to the partition. Being Emeror's favorite and most favored son, he was also widely regarded by the people who lived under the rule of Shah Jahan because of his tolerance, acceptance of eclectic thoughts, and generosity towards the subjects of the kingdom. But fate had something else for Dara Shukoh, which neither he himself nor his father had ever imagined. The throne was overtaken by force and deception by Aurangzeb. Both father and son were imprisoned in different jails. When Dara Shukoh was paraded as a prisoner, the entire crowd wept in an unimaginable manner, as if their beloved king was being led to his final cremation. At that moment a beggar approached to Dara and said:

O Dara! When you were the master, you always gave me alms; today, I know well you have nothing to give.

Dara had only one shawl which covered his upper body, he drew off his shawl and threw it to the man in the middle of his possession. The situation was so dire that a hurried execution took place, driven by Aurangzeb's diminishing trust in the public and growing sympathy for Dara Shukoh. After the execution, a covered platter was presented to the Emperor during his confinement, which he opened, only to find Dara Shukoh's severed head. The shock was so profound that a few attendants had to support him and lead him away.

The backyard of the Dara Shukhoh Library, the arches made of red sandstone are considered of the Mughal era period and European architect which is supported by the arches was added by the British. 

Humayun's Tomb

It is believed that Dara's head found its resting place within the Taj Mahal, a stark reminder to the Emperor every time he gazed upon its opulence, serving as a haunting memory of his beloved son's fate. The rest of Dara's body rests at Humayun's Tomb. It was only a few years ago that the Archaeological Survey of India successfully located Dara Shukoh's grave.

During my visit to the Dara Shukoh Library, my curiosity led me to Humayun's Tomb in search of that unmarked resting place. Surprisingly, few seemed to comprehend the historical significance beneath their feet as they walked over this hidden gem.

Aurangzeb had made extensive efforts to erase every trace of his elder brother, a sentiment that extended to his burial. Dara Shukoh was laid to rest without a marker. This heartless treatment was partly due to allegations of unorthodoxy, as he had allowed differing thoughts and ideologies into the Mughal Courts. It took me some time to locate his unmarked grave, but the research I had undertaken before my visit to Humayun's Tomb proved invaluable. As I stood alone by his grave, a profound stillness overcame me, and my thoughts ceased. Goosebumps covered my body. Beside him lay the graves of Murad and Daniyal, the sons of Akbar.

The grave of Dara Shukhoh followed by the graves of Akbar son's Murad and Daniyal

History has seldom been kind to Aurangzeb, even though he managed to expand the Mughal Empire's boundaries to their farthest reaches, thus creating the largest Mughal Empire of all time, surpassing his predecessors. Yet, Dara's shadow has persistently haunted him, leading to a perpetual internal struggle with his own decisions.

This prompts a thought-provoking question: What if Dara had ascended the throne instead? Dara, never a military strategist, faced nothing but defeats in his wartime campaigns, in stark contrast to his younger brother's successes. This compels me to contemplate the broader geopolitical scenarios and the potential consequences that might have unfolded in the 21st century.

With this allow me to sign off, till then keep loving. ❤️

My email is - saawarnisharma99999@gmail.com, feel free to reach out.