Akbar is the great Mughal who is credited with prohibiting Sati unless the widow herself, of her own free will, persistently desired it. Akbar was the third Mughal emperor who ruled from 1556 to 1605. He is known for his progressive policies and religious tolerance, which set him apart from his predecessors.

Akbar's policies towards women and the practice of Sati were influenced by his belief in human rights and his desire to create a more inclusive and just society. Sati, also known as self-immolation or widow burning, was a deeply entrenched practice in Hindu society at the time. It involved a widow willingly sacrificing herself on her husband's funeral pyre.

Prohibition of Sati:

1. Social Reforms:
- Akbar implemented a series of social reforms that aimed to uplift the status of women and promote gender equality.
- He recognized that Sati was a harmful practice that subjected widows to immense pressure and often forced them into self-immolation against their will.
- Akbar believed that no woman should be compelled to perform Sati and that it should only be allowed if the widow herself, of her own free will, persistently desired it.

2. Royal Decree:
- In order to put an end to the practice of forced Sati, Akbar issued a royal decree that prohibited it unless the widow genuinely wished to undergo it.
- This decree was a significant step towards curbing the practice and protecting the rights of widows.

3. Empowering Widows:
- Akbar's policy aimed to empower widows and provide them with support and opportunities to lead meaningful lives after the death of their husbands.
- He established institutions such as the Anjuman-i-Niswan, which provided shelter, education, and vocational training to widows.

4. Legacy:
- Akbar's prohibition of Sati was a progressive move that challenged the prevailing social norms and patriarchal practices of the time.
- His policy set a precedent for future Mughal rulers and had a lasting impact on society, gradually leading to a decline in the practice of Sati.

In conclusion, Akbar's decision to prohibit Sati unless the widow herself, of her own free will, persistently desired it was a significant step towards protecting the rights of women and curbing the harmful practice. His progressive policies and commitment to social reform continue to be celebrated as an important part of his legacy.