Discuss the religious policy of akbar
Abul Fazl has described the ideal of sulh-i-kul of Akbar as the cornerstone of his enlightened rule. It is because
- In sulh-i-kul, people had the freedom of expression on the condition that they do not undermine the authority of the state or fight among themselves.
- Sulh-i-kul was implemented through state policies. Akbar gave his nobles awards not on the basis of their place of origin or race but on the basis of their services and loyalty to the king.
- Akbar granted religious equality to all. He abolished tax on pilgrimage in 1563 and jaziya in 1564.
- Instructions were given to officers of the empire to follow the principles of sulh-i-kul in administration.