"WOMEN AND POLITICAL POWER IN THE MUGHAL ERA: INFLUENCE, AUTHORITY, AND LEGACY"

Abstract

The Mughal era (1526–1857) witnessed the significant yet often overlooked political role of women in shaping governance, diplomacy, and succession politics. While the imperial court was predominantly male-dominated, several Mughal women exercised considerable influence through direct and indirect means. This research explores the political power wielded by Mughal queens, princesses, and noblewomen, focusing on figures like Nur Jahan, Jahanara Begum, and Zeb-un-Nissa. It examines their roles in court intrigues, military strategies, patronage of the arts, and diplomatic negotiations. The study also highlights how royal harem politics and kinship networks enabled women to exert authority over imperial decisions, often acting as power brokers behind the throne. Additionally, it delves into the limitations imposed by patriarchal structures and the ways in which these women navigated socio-political constraints to leave a lasting impact on Mughal governance. By analyzing historical records, memoirs, and contemporary accounts, this research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of women’s political agency in the Mughal period. It challenges conventional narratives that marginalize female authority and underscores the legacy of these women in shaping the empire’s political landscape. The study ultimately reaffirms that Mughal women were not passive figures but active participants in the power dynamics of one of the most influential empires in South Asian history.