Aurangzeb discouraged painting becausea)Many non-Muslims had earned pr...
Introduction
Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor, had a controversial reign marked by a strict interpretation of Islamic principles. His stance against painting can be understood through his religious beliefs and the socio-political context of his time.
Religious Beliefs
- Aurangzeb followed a conservative interpretation of Islam, which viewed the depiction of living beings, especially humans, as contrary to Islamic tenets.
- The creation of images was seen as an imitation of God's creation, which many scholars argued was forbidden in Islam.
Impact on Culture
- Under Aurangzeb's rule, there was a noticeable decline in the arts, particularly painting, which flourished under previous emperors like Akbar and Jahangir.
- His policies led to a cultural shift that emphasized religious orthodoxy over artistic expression.
Political Context
- Aurangzeb believed that promoting painting could distract people from their religious duties and responsibilities, weakening their senses and commitment to Islam.
- He aimed to consolidate power and strengthen the Mughal Empire, often prioritizing military and administrative needs over artistic endeavors.
Conclusion
In summary, option 'C', which states that Aurangzeb discouraged painting because it was against the sanctions of Islam, accurately reflects his motivations. His reign marked a significant shift from the cultural patronage of his predecessors to a more austere and orthodox approach, deeply rooted in his interpretation of Islamic law. This led to a decline in artistic expressions, particularly painting, which he perceived as a threat to religious purity and societal focus.
Aurangzeb discouraged painting becausea)Many non-Muslims had earned pr...
Option C is correct. Aurangzeb discouraged painting because he believed it was against the sanctions of Islam. Aurangzeb was a devout Muslim and believed that painting, along with other forms of art, was a form of idolatry and therefore prohibited according to Islamic law. The other options listed are incorrect.