PROPAGANDA AND LEGITIMACY OF REGIME: AKBAR AND ABUL FAZL

ABSTRACT

Discussion of the legitimacy of regimes is a relatively recent development in historical studies. In the context of the Mughal state, although speculative statements on the theme can be found scattered in historiography, the problematic has not been fully addressed [ Mukhia, Harbabs: 2004; Kulke,H: 1989; Richards, JF: 1978; Streusand, Douglas E: 1989 ]. The legitimacy of the Mughals survived long after the state had crumbled in the first half of the 18th century. As late as the 19th century, the concept of Mughal imperial authority, embodied in the emperor, continued. Symbols such as Mughal courtly rituals and terminology were well recognized. Imperial aesthetic standards in syncretic architecture and fine arts still provided a cultural reference point. Imperial techniques for the control of military elites continued to hold influence. The reason for this phenomenon was that the Mughals were able to create a pervasive network of authority and mobilize the active energies of existing Hindu elite groups like the Rajputs. Preceding Indo-Muslim dynasties had failed in precisely such areas.

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