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Jahangir : An Intimate Portrait of a Great Mughal
Jahangir was the fourth of the six Great Mughals - great grandson of Babur and grandfather of Aurangzeb - and the least known among them. His father, Akbar, transformed the Mughal kingdom into an empire, and his reign is often considered an epoch in itself. Jahangir's son Shahjahan built the tomb that Tagore famously described as a 'teardrop on the cheek of time', and was sometimes upheld as Akbar's true heir. Jahangir, on the other hand, has the reputation of a weak man, at best: an alcoholic with an eye for art and greed for pleasure, controlled by a powerful wife. But far from being a disinterested prince and insignificant ruler, Jahangir showed tremendous ambition and strength throughout his life. When his succession was threatened, Jahangir set up a rebel court in the face of the mighty Akbar himself. While he made no conquests to match his father's, Jahangir was the first Mughal to win the allegiance of the fearsome Ranas of Mewar. And, for all his reputed frivolity, Jahangir was the emperor who won his dynasty its glorious association with things of beauty and splendour - and who wrote one of the most perceptive and entertaining imperial memoirs of all time. The man who is most often defined by his relationships is here presented holistically as a canny ruler and conscientious administrator, an astute observer of human society and a connoisseur with wide-ranging interests. In this marvellous work of popular history, Parvati Sharma tells a compelling story of one of the most fascinating and undervalued rulers of India.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 23, 2018
Of the first six Mughal emperors—from Babar to Aurangzeb—almost each has acquired a distinct position in the popular imagination. Babar is the conqueror, Humayun the conquered, losing his throne before getting it back years later—only to fall spectacularly down a staircase and die. Akbar is the liberal and progressive empire-builder. Shahjahan is, all said and done, the builder of the Taj Mahal. Aurangzeb is a bigoted, austere tyrant.
But what of Jahangir? Sandwiched between a remarkable father and a dazzlingly opulent son, Jahangir is the one Great Mughal whom few people know about. And yet, this is probably the most interesting, the ‘warmest and most emotional’ (as Bamber Gascoigne describes Jahangir) of the early Mughals. This is the man Parvati Sharma sets out to explore in her biography of the fourth Mughal Emperor.
Jahangir: The Story of an Emperor spans Jahangir’s lifetime, with a little before and a little after. Divided into seven parts, each dealing with an important aspect or phase of Jahangir’s life, the biography starts with Akbar’s desperate need for an heir, which led him to Sheikh Salim Chishti—resulting in the birth, in 1569, of a son who was named after the saint. It follows Salim’s early life, first as the darling of his father, and later, as an adolescent and a young man, the rebel.
The friction between Akbar and Jahangir, Jahangir’s rebellion, his ascension to the throne in 1605, his marriage to the woman he titled ‘Nurjahan’, and who became one of the most powerful women in Indian history—these are covered in the next few parts of the book, while the last couple of parts focus on the disintegration of the relationship between Jahangir and his son Khurram, with Khurram—already named ‘Shahjahan’ by his father—succeeding Jahangir.
In between are chapters that focus on Jahangir, the man. A keen observer, inquisitive, a lover of natural history and wine. Occasionally horrifyingly cruel, often warm and thoughtful. A man devoted to his wife. A man who loved mangoes, who took delight in watching the parenting habits of a pair of saras cranes—yet who could, with no compunctions, order a man flayed alive.
Sharma draws extensively from various sources, including Jahangir himself, whose personality comes so vividly alive in his autobiography, the Jahangirnama. There are the accounts of other Jahangir-era chroniclers (foreign travellers like Thomas Roe and William Hawkins provide interesting ‘outsider’ views), as well as those of more modern historians like Beni Prasad. Sharma admits that she herself is no historian, which accounts for the lack of original research, as also perhaps for the somewhat high-flown conjectures that at times crowd the narrative.
Sharma’s biggest strength lies in her storytelling skills: her writing style is fluid, readable, occasionally humorous, and with so many interesting snippets of trivia scattered through that this book would appeal to even the average lay reader. An entertaining and worthy introduction to Jahangir for anyone interested in Mughal history—and incentive, perhaps, to read the Jahangirnama?
(From my review for The New Indian Express: http://www.newindianexpress.com/lifes...)
But what of Jahangir? Sandwiched between a remarkable father and a dazzlingly opulent son, Jahangir is the one Great Mughal whom few people know about. And yet, this is probably the most interesting, the ‘warmest and most emotional’ (as Bamber Gascoigne describes Jahangir) of the early Mughals. This is the man Parvati Sharma sets out to explore in her biography of the fourth Mughal Emperor.
Jahangir: The Story of an Emperor spans Jahangir’s lifetime, with a little before and a little after. Divided into seven parts, each dealing with an important aspect or phase of Jahangir’s life, the biography starts with Akbar’s desperate need for an heir, which led him to Sheikh Salim Chishti—resulting in the birth, in 1569, of a son who was named after the saint. It follows Salim’s early life, first as the darling of his father, and later, as an adolescent and a young man, the rebel.
The friction between Akbar and Jahangir, Jahangir’s rebellion, his ascension to the throne in 1605, his marriage to the woman he titled ‘Nurjahan’, and who became one of the most powerful women in Indian history—these are covered in the next few parts of the book, while the last couple of parts focus on the disintegration of the relationship between Jahangir and his son Khurram, with Khurram—already named ‘Shahjahan’ by his father—succeeding Jahangir.
In between are chapters that focus on Jahangir, the man. A keen observer, inquisitive, a lover of natural history and wine. Occasionally horrifyingly cruel, often warm and thoughtful. A man devoted to his wife. A man who loved mangoes, who took delight in watching the parenting habits of a pair of saras cranes—yet who could, with no compunctions, order a man flayed alive.
Sharma draws extensively from various sources, including Jahangir himself, whose personality comes so vividly alive in his autobiography, the Jahangirnama. There are the accounts of other Jahangir-era chroniclers (foreign travellers like Thomas Roe and William Hawkins provide interesting ‘outsider’ views), as well as those of more modern historians like Beni Prasad. Sharma admits that she herself is no historian, which accounts for the lack of original research, as also perhaps for the somewhat high-flown conjectures that at times crowd the narrative.
Sharma’s biggest strength lies in her storytelling skills: her writing style is fluid, readable, occasionally humorous, and with so many interesting snippets of trivia scattered through that this book would appeal to even the average lay reader. An entertaining and worthy introduction to Jahangir for anyone interested in Mughal history—and incentive, perhaps, to read the Jahangirnama?
(From my review for The New Indian Express: http://www.newindianexpress.com/lifes...)
May 6, 2020
The book started off with a dewy eyed love tale of the author being in love with the "great mughals". Thankfully later it gets the semblance of some balance where Jehangir is portrayed as the eccentric, cruel ruler as well as a lover of beauty and nature. For me, his finicky temperament, often cruel far exceeds his romantic observations of the flora and fauna around him. The memoir serves as a good indication of the condition of the Indian land if not so much its people.
The interjections from Thomas Roe, ambassador to the court of Jehangir, are quite interesting. Roe would have found himself and his king : King James of the famous Jacobean age) impoverished at the sight of the mughal wealth.
What also stuck me was the intrigue and callousness in this medieval life sketch. Cousins were married, nobles promoted and demoted, sons setting off against father in the chess board of the enterprising "great mughals". Grandsons who were so cherished are only cursed at a later age and sons blinded.
It can be read for its meticulous observations drawn from various sources and the research the author has undertaken.
The interjections from Thomas Roe, ambassador to the court of Jehangir, are quite interesting. Roe would have found himself and his king : King James of the famous Jacobean age) impoverished at the sight of the mughal wealth.
What also stuck me was the intrigue and callousness in this medieval life sketch. Cousins were married, nobles promoted and demoted, sons setting off against father in the chess board of the enterprising "great mughals". Grandsons who were so cherished are only cursed at a later age and sons blinded.
It can be read for its meticulous observations drawn from various sources and the research the author has undertaken.
December 8, 2018
A decent account of the life of Jahangir. The account has covered the sub stories, characters, historical timelines well. Overall considers Jahangir's life sympathetically and maybe a tad indulgently. The use of Maps really helps the reader visualize the realms, campaigns and journeys and I wish they are used more frequently and imaginatively.
Sometimes tough to make out the difference between the lives of the different Mughal monarchs since they follow pretty much similar lifelines - conquest, pleasure pursuits, failings, betrayals and familial spats.
Sometimes tough to make out the difference between the lives of the different Mughal monarchs since they follow pretty much similar lifelines - conquest, pleasure pursuits, failings, betrayals and familial spats.
April 10, 2019
Jahangir is one of the Mughal Emperors who has probably been denied the spotlight in history books. Akbar, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb are more talked about than the rest of them put together. He is mostly remembered as the son of Akbar and father to Shah Jahan and his expensive taste in art is also noted. Even his wife, Nur Jahan, has her own space in history as the de-facto ruler of the empire in his stead. Probably his only claim to fame in history is about his relationship with ‘Anarkali’ even though there is very little evidence of it. Through this book author Parvati Sharma tells us about the emperor who ruled for 22 years.
The book is divided into seven parts starting from his Accession to the throne and covering every aspect of his life. Through Parvati Sharma, we see the sides of Jahangir that are not covered in history. For instance, did you know that Jahangir had a flair for writing? He could describe a war and a flower with the same enthusiasm. He had an open mind when it came to religion and some believe that growing up in Akbar’s court and having a Rajput mother enabled him to have a curious mind when it came down to religion and superstition. His interest lay in verifying before believing and it makes me think that he had a scientific mind. Yet his love for fine art was well known. Much of the art and finery that is attributed to the Mughal Empire had been commissioned and collected by Jahangir.
Nur Jahan and his relationship with her is ever a mystery. Some records show that being the daughter of Akbar’s Grand Vizier, Mehr-un-nisa a.ka. Nur Jahan had a brilliant mind and interest in the affairs of the state. With Jahangir’s addiction to liquor and opium, Nur Jahan found it easy to manipulate the emperor and rule in his stead. Other accounts paint a different picture where Nur Jahan and Jahangir were partners. Jahangir admired her knowledge, respected her opinions and as a result involved her in the state of affairs.
I found the book to be very informative and appreciated the selected bibliography that the author has provided at the end. The maps and images offered helped the reading experience. The USP of the book is that the author narrates the story of an emperor and follows up with examples of small anecdotes that prove the point that she is trying to make. It made the read a bit interesting to a person like me who isn’t into nonfiction as much.
The book is divided into seven parts starting from his Accession to the throne and covering every aspect of his life. Through Parvati Sharma, we see the sides of Jahangir that are not covered in history. For instance, did you know that Jahangir had a flair for writing? He could describe a war and a flower with the same enthusiasm. He had an open mind when it came to religion and some believe that growing up in Akbar’s court and having a Rajput mother enabled him to have a curious mind when it came down to religion and superstition. His interest lay in verifying before believing and it makes me think that he had a scientific mind. Yet his love for fine art was well known. Much of the art and finery that is attributed to the Mughal Empire had been commissioned and collected by Jahangir.
Nur Jahan and his relationship with her is ever a mystery. Some records show that being the daughter of Akbar’s Grand Vizier, Mehr-un-nisa a.ka. Nur Jahan had a brilliant mind and interest in the affairs of the state. With Jahangir’s addiction to liquor and opium, Nur Jahan found it easy to manipulate the emperor and rule in his stead. Other accounts paint a different picture where Nur Jahan and Jahangir were partners. Jahangir admired her knowledge, respected her opinions and as a result involved her in the state of affairs.
I found the book to be very informative and appreciated the selected bibliography that the author has provided at the end. The maps and images offered helped the reading experience. The USP of the book is that the author narrates the story of an emperor and follows up with examples of small anecdotes that prove the point that she is trying to make. It made the read a bit interesting to a person like me who isn’t into nonfiction as much.
June 2, 2019
The Mughal period has been taught since a long time but the focus has been mostly on Akbar, Babar or even Shahjahan but Jahangir is probably the most ignored Mughal ruler. This book explores the life of the ruler who ruled India for a span of 22 years, his interests like that of writing or in art & the state of affairs he dealt with. We also come to know about an interesting person from his life, his wife Nur Jahan & how she used her wit to influence the ruler to take some decisions as per her will.
Read the full review on Just Another Bookaholic
Read the full review on Just Another Bookaholic
December 16, 2018
Jahangir by Parvati Sharma is an extremely riveting, well-researched and well-framed book, which takes off the royal veil off Jahangir and portrays him in a manner which is sans his aristocracy.
The book is divided into chapters distinguishing between the various facets of Jahangir’s life; starting from accession, his empire, married life, and administrative affairs. It is true that Jahangir was born to the greatest ruler of the Mughal dynasty, Akbar, who is only acknowledged with power and knowledge, and was known from his grandiose demeanor. Jahangir was fondly known as Salim, and in the initial chapters the author smoothly takes off the ‘tag’ of Akbar’s son and then the focus solely shifts to how ‘Nuruddinn Muhammad Jahangir’ was as an able emperor of the vast land that was Hindustan. Jahangir is seen as an emperor who had two dimensions to his splendid personality, an able ruler of the masses as well as a frivolous spendthrift on luxury and extravagant paintings portraying him as a conqueror of all the power the world has to offer. Often manipulated by his sharp and skilled wife, Nur Jahan, she is always seen as the controller behind the actions of Jahangir, so much that it won’t be wrong to say that he was indeed a pseudo puppet ruler under Nur Jahan. The book continues to further explain his religious beliefs, along with his war history and the triumph over the Ranas of Mewar.
The book is very exhaustive and short in nature, with a sharp focus on the intimate life details of Jahangir, and beautiful pictures along the way. I would have loved a closer and more intimate take on Salim’s infamous relationship with Anarkali which hasn’t been explored by the author. The book covers everything for a reader to get a primary yet comprehensive knowledge about the kingship and state of affairs during the rule of Jahangir.
The book is divided into chapters distinguishing between the various facets of Jahangir’s life; starting from accession, his empire, married life, and administrative affairs. It is true that Jahangir was born to the greatest ruler of the Mughal dynasty, Akbar, who is only acknowledged with power and knowledge, and was known from his grandiose demeanor. Jahangir was fondly known as Salim, and in the initial chapters the author smoothly takes off the ‘tag’ of Akbar’s son and then the focus solely shifts to how ‘Nuruddinn Muhammad Jahangir’ was as an able emperor of the vast land that was Hindustan. Jahangir is seen as an emperor who had two dimensions to his splendid personality, an able ruler of the masses as well as a frivolous spendthrift on luxury and extravagant paintings portraying him as a conqueror of all the power the world has to offer. Often manipulated by his sharp and skilled wife, Nur Jahan, she is always seen as the controller behind the actions of Jahangir, so much that it won’t be wrong to say that he was indeed a pseudo puppet ruler under Nur Jahan. The book continues to further explain his religious beliefs, along with his war history and the triumph over the Ranas of Mewar.
The book is very exhaustive and short in nature, with a sharp focus on the intimate life details of Jahangir, and beautiful pictures along the way. I would have loved a closer and more intimate take on Salim’s infamous relationship with Anarkali which hasn’t been explored by the author. The book covers everything for a reader to get a primary yet comprehensive knowledge about the kingship and state of affairs during the rule of Jahangir.
March 8, 2025
Great read. Not comprehensive yet at the same time, doesn’t try to hash over the same points over and over again. Brings a lot of new information and insights in a cohesive format.
May 9, 2020
When we read history, we look for greatness because history is full of men and women who make it and shape it – the good and the evil. But, there are a few, who while playing crucial roles in the pages of history, never really manage to make their mark. Parvati Sharma, in her fascinating book ‘Jahangir: An Intimate Portrait of a Great Mughal,’ tells us the story of one such man, Jahangir or Salim, the fourth successor of the Mughal throne.
The son of the illustrious emperor Akbar and father of Shah Jahan, the one who built the Taj Mahal, Jahangir, was known to be a frivolous man, one who indulged in wine, women, and arts. However, the author, in her very well researched book, has managed to bring forth the sides of his personality that made him an incisive ruler, that has always been overlooked.
Caught between a powerful and overbearing father, who preferred his grandson Shah Jahan over Jahangir, he did not have a lot to show in terms of conquests or victories. However, one finds that Jahangir was a keen observer of people and things, always curious, he recorded everything that he observed and has one of the most detailed and colorful biographies of any ruler of the time the ‘Jahangirnama.’ In today’s modern times, where we accept any information forwarded to us without checking the facts, it is interesting to read several instances of Jahangir verifying information presented to him before taking it as the truth. Like his father, he had both cynicism and interest in learning everything there was about every religion. He had portraits painted with Christian iconography and had a keen interest in Hinduism, marrying Rajput brides and frequently conversing with the Hindu ascetic Gosain Jadrup in his court. Jahangir was also the first Mughal ruler to win the allegiance of the Ranas of Mewar, which even his father, who had conquered almost all of Hindustan could not achieve in his lifetime.
Thanks to Bollywood, we all know the story of ‘Anarkali,’ the court dancer in Akbar’s harem, who Salim fell in love with and how she met her gory end. The pain of young love always moves anyone who hears it, but it is the story of the middle-aged love between Jahangir and Mehr-un-Nissa or Nur Jahan (Light of the World) that had me captivated. In a palace full of young queens and beautiful concubines, ready to fulfill all his wishes, he married a middle-aged widow Nur Jahan. She became an unyielding companion that stayed right by his side till his last breath, making her a formidable companion and foe for anyone who crossed her path.
Unfortunately, when a woman becomes powerful, she is usually vilified in history but married to the emperor of Hindustan, who was an alcoholic; she became his eyes and voice in a court that was full of potential rivals ready to usurp his reign at any time. This part of the story is what makes you notice what true love and companionship can achieve. They didn’t have children together, Nur Jahan already had a daughter from her previous marriage, and Jahangir had sons and daughters from his other queens. Still, they were ambitious and dedicated to each other with royal edicts signed in both their names, which was both shocking and unique at that time, where women were not seen or heard. Together they also made a law that Hindu widows would not be forced to commit suicide, which was very prevalent at that time and forbade the practice of killing infant girls. Somehow one cannot read the story of Jahangir without knowing the critical part played by Nur Jahan.
A connoisseur of the finer things in life, he may not have been as influential as his father or as decisive as his son, but make no mistake, Jahangir was an emperor in his own right. An exciting read with lots of anecdotes, this book is a must-read for those who have a keen interest in Mughal history.
The son of the illustrious emperor Akbar and father of Shah Jahan, the one who built the Taj Mahal, Jahangir, was known to be a frivolous man, one who indulged in wine, women, and arts. However, the author, in her very well researched book, has managed to bring forth the sides of his personality that made him an incisive ruler, that has always been overlooked.
Caught between a powerful and overbearing father, who preferred his grandson Shah Jahan over Jahangir, he did not have a lot to show in terms of conquests or victories. However, one finds that Jahangir was a keen observer of people and things, always curious, he recorded everything that he observed and has one of the most detailed and colorful biographies of any ruler of the time the ‘Jahangirnama.’ In today’s modern times, where we accept any information forwarded to us without checking the facts, it is interesting to read several instances of Jahangir verifying information presented to him before taking it as the truth. Like his father, he had both cynicism and interest in learning everything there was about every religion. He had portraits painted with Christian iconography and had a keen interest in Hinduism, marrying Rajput brides and frequently conversing with the Hindu ascetic Gosain Jadrup in his court. Jahangir was also the first Mughal ruler to win the allegiance of the Ranas of Mewar, which even his father, who had conquered almost all of Hindustan could not achieve in his lifetime.
Thanks to Bollywood, we all know the story of ‘Anarkali,’ the court dancer in Akbar’s harem, who Salim fell in love with and how she met her gory end. The pain of young love always moves anyone who hears it, but it is the story of the middle-aged love between Jahangir and Mehr-un-Nissa or Nur Jahan (Light of the World) that had me captivated. In a palace full of young queens and beautiful concubines, ready to fulfill all his wishes, he married a middle-aged widow Nur Jahan. She became an unyielding companion that stayed right by his side till his last breath, making her a formidable companion and foe for anyone who crossed her path.
Unfortunately, when a woman becomes powerful, she is usually vilified in history but married to the emperor of Hindustan, who was an alcoholic; she became his eyes and voice in a court that was full of potential rivals ready to usurp his reign at any time. This part of the story is what makes you notice what true love and companionship can achieve. They didn’t have children together, Nur Jahan already had a daughter from her previous marriage, and Jahangir had sons and daughters from his other queens. Still, they were ambitious and dedicated to each other with royal edicts signed in both their names, which was both shocking and unique at that time, where women were not seen or heard. Together they also made a law that Hindu widows would not be forced to commit suicide, which was very prevalent at that time and forbade the practice of killing infant girls. Somehow one cannot read the story of Jahangir without knowing the critical part played by Nur Jahan.
A connoisseur of the finer things in life, he may not have been as influential as his father or as decisive as his son, but make no mistake, Jahangir was an emperor in his own right. An exciting read with lots of anecdotes, this book is a must-read for those who have a keen interest in Mughal history.
January 29, 2019
An interesting and engaging account of the fourth Mughal Emperor that strives to show him as a person in full, rather than a historical figure. It helps that the author is clearly sympathetic to him and his affinity for beauty and aesthetics. The Jahangir shown here is both capricious and thoughtful, ambitious but not interested in conquest, and above all interested in the world around him and how it works.
February 7, 2025
Wow. A story of love, for a woman and for wine. A story of family and pain. And most importantly a story which brings a subaltern lens to probably the most important man in the world when he was alive. Brilliant book on a not so brilliant not so bad man.
August 7, 2019
3.5/5 Akbar has been one of my favourite figures from history - he was courageous, tactful and generous - far ahead of his times. It was perhaps inevitable that his son Jahangir's life would be overshadowed and less known.
One of my most enjoyable books on history was The Mughal Throne and it covered each of the 6 major Mughals fairly well and it also served as my introduction to Humayun and Jahangir who are lesser known. And perhaps Jahangir was the most chilled of them all. What struck me then and in this book too was his relaxed attitude to religion, his inquisitive mind and his love for art as an Emperor. Or that he was a spoilt brat who seemed unfit for the throne and yet managed to rule for 22 years.
And ofcourse read about Noor-Jahan for the first time. For those who like historical fiction The Twentieth Wife is unmissable and its sequel is quite good too.
This book had a nice writing style that both informed and entertained. And while I do not think Jahangir was "great", I think the author tried to narrate history fairly without offering her commentary and biases at every stage. I hope the author continues to write more books on history.
One of my most enjoyable books on history was The Mughal Throne and it covered each of the 6 major Mughals fairly well and it also served as my introduction to Humayun and Jahangir who are lesser known. And perhaps Jahangir was the most chilled of them all. What struck me then and in this book too was his relaxed attitude to religion, his inquisitive mind and his love for art as an Emperor. Or that he was a spoilt brat who seemed unfit for the throne and yet managed to rule for 22 years.
And ofcourse read about Noor-Jahan for the first time. For those who like historical fiction The Twentieth Wife is unmissable and its sequel is quite good too.
This book had a nice writing style that both informed and entertained. And while I do not think Jahangir was "great", I think the author tried to narrate history fairly without offering her commentary and biases at every stage. I hope the author continues to write more books on history.
September 14, 2022
The story of all half dozen great Mughals is often told together. We are told breathlessly in broad strokes that these kings ruled over north India for over 200 years, where only one distinguishing feature can stand out - Babur was the wanderer, Humayun : the exiled, Akbar: the conqueror, Jahangir : the aesthete, Shahjahan : the architect builder and Aurangzeb: the communal. This served the purpose of introducing the Mughals, but rarely satisfied an inquisitive mind that wants to know more about the actual person, especially when confronted with their unique legacy in art, architecture and fable. It also explains why so many new books want to tackle the reign of one great Mughal in detail, using the king’s life as a means to accumulate and convey the richness of the times.
Parvati Sharma’s biography of Jahangir is a very good addition to this genre in historical writing. Sharma tells the story of Jahangir in detail, the camera staying firmly on its subject and his motivations. Sandwiched between two Mughals who left a greater material legacy, Jahangir's story is usually rushed through, providing only anecdotes of his obsession to record copulating cranes or the pleasures of eating fruit. In this book however, we come to see the process leading to Jahangir’s aesthetic sense, while watching him interact with power and destiny. Because he was also a king, and before that a prince who rebelled against his over-achieving father, we understand his insecurities. Each aspect of his character gets its due in the book. We see him negotiate with absolute power and understand how in 16th and 17th century this often meant cruelty. We understand that Jahangir’s story is also the story of strong women who were around him, who protected him, advised him through rebellion and reign and who allowed his emotional side to persist. So by the time the book got to the anecdote of the mating cranes or of the lion & the goat it was obvious to me why Jahangir would be interested in observing and noting the proceedings and why he would not shy away from offering a goat to the lion just to see what would happen.
Parvati Sharma’s biography of Jahangir is a very good addition to this genre in historical writing. Sharma tells the story of Jahangir in detail, the camera staying firmly on its subject and his motivations. Sandwiched between two Mughals who left a greater material legacy, Jahangir's story is usually rushed through, providing only anecdotes of his obsession to record copulating cranes or the pleasures of eating fruit. In this book however, we come to see the process leading to Jahangir’s aesthetic sense, while watching him interact with power and destiny. Because he was also a king, and before that a prince who rebelled against his over-achieving father, we understand his insecurities. Each aspect of his character gets its due in the book. We see him negotiate with absolute power and understand how in 16th and 17th century this often meant cruelty. We understand that Jahangir’s story is also the story of strong women who were around him, who protected him, advised him through rebellion and reign and who allowed his emotional side to persist. So by the time the book got to the anecdote of the mating cranes or of the lion & the goat it was obvious to me why Jahangir would be interested in observing and noting the proceedings and why he would not shy away from offering a goat to the lion just to see what would happen.
January 24, 2022
A ruler whose kingdom was saved by his intelligence or was there some kind of miracle power behind him?. This question will revolve in your mind whenever you read something on Jahangir. This book by Parvati Sharma is well researched and written in simple language portrays different personalities of Jahangir.
He was cruel when he asked to skin a man alive and was benovelent at times when he distributed lakhs in charity. He was a opium an alcohol addict but sober enough to control vast empire and even extend it rule to deccan.
The book records the travel account of foreign travellers who were surprised by secularism which was practised in Mughal empire. Jahangir even converted his three family member to Christianity.
His artistic sense and it was said that he could identify which painter painted it by just looking at the painting. He was fond of hunting and his interest in animals was so much that one of the foreign travellers said that he would been better as the head of some Natural Museum rather than being an emperor.
The book throw light on the organisational ability of Nur Jahan and the battle of succession which took place between him and Khusro. The book ends with a note on the diminishing relevance of Mughal empire in South Asia and author has maintained an unbiased attitude throughout the book and has not tried to provide opinions but has served facts in this book and has left it you as to how you will characterize Jahangir.
He was cruel when he asked to skin a man alive and was benovelent at times when he distributed lakhs in charity. He was a opium an alcohol addict but sober enough to control vast empire and even extend it rule to deccan.
The book records the travel account of foreign travellers who were surprised by secularism which was practised in Mughal empire. Jahangir even converted his three family member to Christianity.
His artistic sense and it was said that he could identify which painter painted it by just looking at the painting. He was fond of hunting and his interest in animals was so much that one of the foreign travellers said that he would been better as the head of some Natural Museum rather than being an emperor.
The book throw light on the organisational ability of Nur Jahan and the battle of succession which took place between him and Khusro. The book ends with a note on the diminishing relevance of Mughal empire in South Asia and author has maintained an unbiased attitude throughout the book and has not tried to provide opinions but has served facts in this book and has left it you as to how you will characterize Jahangir.
June 24, 2020
Parvati does a splendid job for someone who is interested in Mughal empire and exploring specific rulers of the empire. Jahangir, who is the fourth Mughal emperor has been in a shadow of Akbar and Aurangzeb, two more popular emperors of the Mughal empire. This book is very well researched and author has portrayed intricacies and conspiracies of royal court from the times of Akbar to Shahjehan, which keeps the reader glued to text.
Details on Jahangirs personal life from aesthetics to hunting to drinking are true depiction of royal life during the reign of Mughals. Similarly various expeditions against rebelling domains have been a regular part of these rulers which are well captured in the book.
However author should have included a section on afterlife of Jahangir in more detail as that in itself is an interesting part of Jahangirs legacy. His tomb lays deserted at the outskirts of Lahore, although Nur Jahan spent considerable time and amount on its construction after the emperors demise.
Details on Jahangirs personal life from aesthetics to hunting to drinking are true depiction of royal life during the reign of Mughals. Similarly various expeditions against rebelling domains have been a regular part of these rulers which are well captured in the book.
However author should have included a section on afterlife of Jahangir in more detail as that in itself is an interesting part of Jahangirs legacy. His tomb lays deserted at the outskirts of Lahore, although Nur Jahan spent considerable time and amount on its construction after the emperors demise.
August 10, 2020
I never cared too much about the Mughals and focused more on modern Indian history out of sheer interest. In all honesty, what primarily drove me to actually read this novel that my aunt got me wasn't speculation about Jahangir but rather the beautiful pale green jacket with the even more beautiful pale pink hardcover. However, after reading this, my interest in Mughals is at an all time high.
Parvati Sharma has such a skill for writing that every page reads like a dramatic epic (easy to do with a Mughals life but still). Her skill at weaving in accounts of travellers, excerpts from Jahangir's own journals and the ultimate timeline is masterful. In fact, I found myself on the verge of tears at certain moments and then laughing in others. To do this with any book is a feat but more so to do with a non fiction about someone who existed four hundred years ago. My favourite parts to read about were to do with his fascination with nature and the chapter on aesthetics is absolutely wonderful. I highly recommend reading this, you will not be disappointed.
Parvati Sharma has such a skill for writing that every page reads like a dramatic epic (easy to do with a Mughals life but still). Her skill at weaving in accounts of travellers, excerpts from Jahangir's own journals and the ultimate timeline is masterful. In fact, I found myself on the verge of tears at certain moments and then laughing in others. To do this with any book is a feat but more so to do with a non fiction about someone who existed four hundred years ago. My favourite parts to read about were to do with his fascination with nature and the chapter on aesthetics is absolutely wonderful. I highly recommend reading this, you will not be disappointed.
August 13, 2020
Interesting, especially when we look at how history has been taught to us in schools. I like the idea of looking at personalities in history and trying to place them in a modern context or imagining if not ruler, then which career path in todays world would have better suited them/ made them happy... On the whole I believe it is a good read. there is this line that says "the history of India has been held hostage to our politics" which is so true. I feel we need to read more books, where history is concerned.
The fact that Parvathi Sharma writes for children and initially intended this for children is amazing, that explains why the narration is so easy to take in and that makes it quite an interesting and quick read. And in the end, the Mughals are very interesting people to read about.
The fact that Parvathi Sharma writes for children and initially intended this for children is amazing, that explains why the narration is so easy to take in and that makes it quite an interesting and quick read. And in the end, the Mughals are very interesting people to read about.
January 24, 2019
How do you write about a king who's reign is flanked by one of the greatest and one of the most controversial, one who's married to Noor Jehan, one who lived so many years under his father's shadow? Ask the author, cause she does a pretty great job of introducing the person to us. For the first time, one is able to peel aside history and see the man who we have all known but has always remained hidden in plain sight. Amazing book, very very well written. Keeps you engaged throughout and you end up wanting more. I only wish she writes Shahjahan's tale next.
July 21, 2019
This is an interesting book. I would not call it an intimate portrait, but it does present a good portrait of Jahangir. I have not read much about Jahangir, and Parvati Sharma's book does indeed give me a solid enough foundation to go on.
It could have been deeper, more analytical. However, I would also think that this would defeat the purpose that I assume that the author had in mind.
It's good. It's an easy read, and does provide the lay reader with enough material to go on for further reading.
It could have been deeper, more analytical. However, I would also think that this would defeat the purpose that I assume that the author had in mind.
It's good. It's an easy read, and does provide the lay reader with enough material to go on for further reading.
December 22, 2020
I loved the author's approach of not forcing her ideas onto the readers, but giving them the freedom to formulate their own views about the 4th Mughal Emperor.
Mughals, being remembered for their barbarism, and not grandeur, were more than just outsiders. The author's journey to unravel the mind of the weakest of the great Mughals, uncovers the Mughal culture which is now so ingrained in modern India, that they can hardly be termed as foreigners.
Mughals, being remembered for their barbarism, and not grandeur, were more than just outsiders. The author's journey to unravel the mind of the weakest of the great Mughals, uncovers the Mughal culture which is now so ingrained in modern India, that they can hardly be termed as foreigners.
August 5, 2019
Fantastic! simply great. A wonderfully written, expertly researched biography of a major Indian historical figure. If you want a detailed political history,look elsewhere. The title says it all, 'intimate portrait'. Jahangir comes across as very human, very flawed but very special person. I read it in virtually one sitting. And hope Sharma does more of these! Thanks.
September 23, 2025
Highly engaging narrative. Flows like novel. Sheds new light. Challenges popular believes. Every page builds up curiosity.
Fairly covers Akbar and shahjahan.
Hoped to find more about Nurjahan.
Despite many qualities one would still feel the man better managed a natural history museum or an art museum than running an Empire ....
Book is worth reading.....
Fairly covers Akbar and shahjahan.
Hoped to find more about Nurjahan.
Despite many qualities one would still feel the man better managed a natural history museum or an art museum than running an Empire ....
Book is worth reading.....
August 1, 2022
Flowing narrative, well researched, and excellent story telling, makes this a great read for history buffs. Sharma is thoughtful and nuanced in analysis, and leaves open a few conundrums when it comes to assessing such a complex character as Jahangir, something for the reader to mull over.
January 21, 2019
This has to be one of the best history books written by an Indian.
June 4, 2019
Quick, easy and interesting read about the life of this Mughal ruler of India.
July 1, 2019
What a beautifully written and wonderfully researched book! So happy to see the list of other books by the author. Can't wait to start the one about Babur next!
Want to read
October 26, 2019This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2019
A page turner. The book is so vividly written, one can actually visualize the great times of Emperor Jahangir, of the great Mughal era.
August 12, 2020
Nice read with some fascinating insights in the life of a rather unfamiliar mughal. Worth a read if you are interested in some Mughal history
January 18, 2025
One of the finest works of non-fiction I’ve ever read
December 24, 2021
“All Salim had to do to helm an empire was wait and what better way to pass the time than with a jug or six of wine.”
The book starts slow, starting from the middle of Akbar’s reign, through Jahangir’s accession to the throne and ends with the accession of Shah Jahan as the Mughal Emperor,
Jahangir is one of the six great Mughal emperors, but he is often crushed between his father, Akbar the great known for his secular practices and consolidation of the empire, and his son, Shah Jahan who is remembered for some of the greatest architectural monuments including the Taj Mahal and The Red Fort. While, on the other hand, Jahangir is mostly remembered for his addiction to wine and opium. The author, with her detailed description, teleports us to the 17th century into the reign of Jahangir, which was a comparatively peaceful one.
The book is filled with quotations from the Akbarnama, Jahangirnama, and several other accounts, including accounts of the Jesuit missions to the court of the Mughals.
The book was worth the read and is recommended for anyone looking to dive into 400 years into the past and discover a great deal about life back then.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 8/10
The book starts slow, starting from the middle of Akbar’s reign, through Jahangir’s accession to the throne and ends with the accession of Shah Jahan as the Mughal Emperor,
Jahangir is one of the six great Mughal emperors, but he is often crushed between his father, Akbar the great known for his secular practices and consolidation of the empire, and his son, Shah Jahan who is remembered for some of the greatest architectural monuments including the Taj Mahal and The Red Fort. While, on the other hand, Jahangir is mostly remembered for his addiction to wine and opium. The author, with her detailed description, teleports us to the 17th century into the reign of Jahangir, which was a comparatively peaceful one.
The book is filled with quotations from the Akbarnama, Jahangirnama, and several other accounts, including accounts of the Jesuit missions to the court of the Mughals.
The book was worth the read and is recommended for anyone looking to dive into 400 years into the past and discover a great deal about life back then.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 8/10
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