Noor Jehan (1577-1645) was an empress who belonged to the great Mughal Dynasty. Noor Jehan was the favourite wife of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Her real name was Mehr-un-Nisaa, and she was born in 1597 in Kandahar, Afghanishtan, into a noble family from Persia, her grandfather serving the Shah Tahmasp I.

Introduction:
Mehrunnisa, also known as Nur Jahan, was one of the most influential women in Mughal history. She earned the title "Nur Jahan" for her exceptional beauty, intelligence, and power. Let's delve into the details of why Mehrunnisa was called Nur Jahan.

Early Life and Marriage:
Mehrunnisa was born in 1577 in Kandahar, Afghanistan. She belonged to a Persian noble family and was renowned for her striking beauty from a young age. In 1585, she was married to Ali Quli Istajlu, a Persian soldier, who later joined the Mughal court.

Entrance into the Mughal Court:
After the death of her first husband, Mehrunnisa caught the attention of Emperor Jahangir, who was captivated by her charm and intellect. In 1611, Mehrunnisa married Jahangir and became his twentieth wife. To mark this occasion, Jahangir bestowed upon her the title "Nur Mahal," meaning "Light of the Palace."

Power and Influence:
As Empress, Mehrunnisa exercised immense power and influence over Jahangir's court. She played a significant role in political affairs, forging alliances and making key decisions. Mehrunnisa was well-educated and possessed exceptional administrative skills, which earned her the respect and admiration of many.

Architectural Patronage:
Nur Jahan's reign witnessed a surge in architectural projects. She commissioned the construction of several stunning buildings, including the famous Nur Mahal in Lahore and the Jahangir Mahal in Orchha. These structures showcased her refined taste and contributed to the artistic and cultural legacy of the Mughal Empire.

Military Strategies:
Nur Jahan actively participated in military campaigns alongside Jahangir. She was known for her strategic acumen and played a crucial role in planning and executing various military operations. Her military prowess further solidified her position as a powerful and influential figure in the empire.

Artistic Patronage:
Nur Jahan was a great patron of the arts and promoted various art forms during her reign. She actively supported painters, poets, and musicians, fostering a vibrant cultural scene at the Mughal court. Her love for art and literature left an indelible mark on Mughal culture.

Cultural Influence:
Under Nur Jahan's patronage, the Mughal court witnessed a fusion of Persian and Indian culture. She introduced Persian customs, fashion, and cuisine, leaving a lasting impact on the social fabric of the empire. Her influence extended beyond the court, shaping the cultural landscape of Mughal India.

Conclusion:
Mehrunnisa, or Nur Jahan, earned her title through a combination of beauty, intellect, power, and influence. Her reign as Empress marked a significant era in Mughal history, characterized by her political astuteness, architectural patronage, military strategies, artistic promotion, and cultural influence. Her legacy as Nur Jahan continues to inspire and captivate people's imagination, making her an iconic figure in Mughal history.

During the spring festival of Norouz in 1611 Jahangir first set on mehrun nissa at the palace meena bazaar, and was fixated by her stunning beauty, that he married her a few months later, in the same year.The couple's infatuation for each other was so immense that she became his favourite wife and whom he affectionately named Noor Mahal ("Light of the Palace") after marriage, and then as Noor Jahan ("Light of the world").