Abul Fazal was the author of Ain-i-Akabari, the third volume of the book “Akbarnama”. The book gives the administrative details of Akbar’s time.

Introduction:
The Ain-i-Akbari is a historical document written by Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak, who was a courtier in the Mughal emperor Akbar's court. It is a part of the larger work called Akbarnama, which is a biography of Akbar.

Author and Background:
Abu'l-Fazl, also known as Shaikh Abu'al-Fazl, was born in 1551 in Agra, India. He was a Persian poet, historian, and statesman who served as the vizier (chief minister) in Akbar's court. Abu'l-Fazl was known for his intellectual prowess and was considered one of the Nine Jewels (Navaratnas) in Akbar's court. He had a deep interest in various subjects like philosophy, religion, politics, and literature.

Content and Structure:
The Ain-i-Akbari is a detailed record of Akbar's administration and the state of the Mughal Empire during his reign. It is divided into five books, each known as "daftar," and covers various aspects of the empire, including geography, administration, economy, society, and culture.

1. Book I - Administration: This book provides an overview of Akbar's administrative system, including the structure of the empire, the organization of the court, and the responsibilities of different officials. It also discusses revenue administration, military organization, and the justice system.

2. Book II - Provinces: This section describes the various provinces of the empire, their boundaries, and the revenue they generated. It also provides information about the governors, revenue collectors, and the social and economic conditions of each province.

3. Book III - Revenue and Finance: In this book, Abu'l-Fazl explains the revenue system of the empire, including the different sources of revenue, land measurement, and taxation policies. He also discusses the imperial treasury and the management of finances.

4. Book IV - Society and Culture: This section covers a wide range of topics related to society and culture, including the caste system, education, languages, arts, sciences, and religious diversity in the empire. It also provides details about festivals, court rituals, and the patronage of scholars and artists.

5. Book V - Geography and Natural History: The final book focuses on the geography of the empire, including the different regions, rivers, mountains, and cities. It also includes information on flora, fauna, minerals, and climate.

Significance:
The Ain-i-Akbari is not only a historical record but also a valuable source for understanding the administration, society, and culture of the Mughal Empire during Akbar's rule. It provides insights into the policies and practices implemented by Akbar to consolidate and expand his empire. Abu'l-Fazl's meticulous documentation and detailed observations make the Ain-i-Akbari an essential resource for historians and scholars studying the Mughal period in India.

Abul Fazl