The main purpose of Ain-i-Akbari was to record information about the people and society during the Mughal regime.

(ii) Another purpose of Ain-i-Akbari was to give detailed accounts of the organisation of the court, administration and army.

Ain-i-Akbari: The Central Purpose

The Ain-i-Akbari is a historical document that was written by Abul Fazl, a court historian and one of the "Navaratnas" (nine gems) in the court of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Completed in 1598, it is a part of the larger work known as the Akbarnama, which chronicles the reign of Emperor Akbar.

The Central Purpose:

The central purpose of the Ain-i-Akbari can be summarized as follows:

1. Documentation of Akbar's Administration:
The Ain-i-Akbari serves as a comprehensive administrative and statistical document that provides detailed information about the governance system during Akbar's reign. It discusses various aspects of the empire, including the administrative divisions, revenue system, military organization, and the roles and responsibilities of officials.

2. Socio-cultural Insights:
Apart from administrative details, the Ain-i-Akbari also provides valuable insights into the social and cultural aspects of the Mughal Empire. It covers topics such as the caste system, religious beliefs and practices, education, trade and commerce, agriculture, and even the customs and traditions of different communities.

3. Economic Analysis:
The document includes extensive information about the revenue system, taxation policies, and economic activities of the empire. It provides a detailed account of the various sources of revenue, including land revenue, customs duties, and tributes. This economic analysis helps in understanding the financial strength and stability of the Mughal Empire.

4. Historical Record:
As a historical record, the Ain-i-Akbari captures the events and achievements of Emperor Akbar's reign. It documents the military campaigns, diplomatic relations, and significant developments during his rule. This historical account helps in studying the political history of the Mughal Empire and its impact on the subcontinent.

5. Cultural Legacy:
The Ain-i-Akbari also highlights the cultural legacy of the Mughal Empire. It showcases Akbar's patronage of the arts, literature, and architecture. The document includes descriptions of the magnificent buildings, gardens, and forts constructed during his reign, as well as the artists, poets, and scholars who thrived under his patronage.

Conclusion:

The central purpose of the Ain-i-Akbari is to provide a comprehensive and detailed account of the administration, socio-cultural aspects, economy, historical events, and cultural legacy of the Mughal Empire during Emperor Akbar's reign. It serves as a valuable historical resource for understanding the governance and societal dynamics of one of the most influential empires in Indian history.