Nur Jahan of India: The Thinking Girl Treasury of Real Princesses

Once upon a time in the vibrant land of India, there lived a princess who defied societal norms and became a powerful ruler. Her name was Nur Jahan, and she left an indelible mark on history.

Nur Jahan was born on May 31, 1577, in Kandahar, present-day Afghanistan. Her birth name was Mehr-un-Nissa, which meant "Sun among Women." From a young age, Nur Jahan showed immense intelligence, wit, and courage, which made her stand out among her contemporaries.

Nur Jahan of India (The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses)

by Shirin Yim Bridges (Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3997 KB
Print length	:	24 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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As fate would have it, she was brought to the Mughal court when her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, was appointed as a high-ranking official. There, in the imperial court, young Mehr-un-Nissa caught the attention of Emperor Jahangir with her immense beauty and sharp intellect.

Recognizing her extraordinary qualities, Emperor Jahangir bestowed upon her the title Nur Mahal, which meant "Light of the Palace." Later, as their relationship deepened, he married Mehr-un-Nissa and gave her the new name Nur Jahan.

Unlike other Mughal princesses of the time, who were confined to the zenana (women's quarters) and governed by purdah (seclusion), Nur Jahan broke free from the traditional norms. She actively participated in politics, military affairs, and other aspects of governance alongside her husband.

Nur Jahan became an astute diplomat and counselor to the emperor. Her sharp wit and strategic intelligence greatly influenced Jahangir's decision-making, and he bestowed her trust upon her in matters of state. It was under her guidance that Jahangir's reign witnessed great prosperity and stability.

One of Nur Jahan's most notable achievements was her role in the Afghan rebellion. When a group of Afghan nobles threatened the security of the Mughal Empire, Nur Jahan took charge of the military campaigns and successfully quelled the rebellion.

But Nur Jahan's skills were not limited to politics and warfare alone. She was a patron of the arts and encouraged the flourishing of Persian, Turkish, and Indian literature, music, and architecture. She herself was an exceptional poet and calligrapher.

Furthermore, she initiated several public works projects, including the construction of splendid gardens, mausoleums, and mosques. Her architectural marvels, such as the Jahangir Mahal in Agra and the Sair-ul-Manazil in Delhi, stand as a testament to her impeccable taste and vision.

Beyond her role as a ruler, Nur Jahan was known for her love and devotion to her husband, Jahangir. She shaped the imperial court's culture and introduced various customs, including the celebration of Nowruz, a Persian New Year festival. Their love story has become the stuff of legends, immortalized in art and literature.

Unfortunately, like many great women in history, Nur Jahan's contributions have often been overshadowed by the patriarchy. Despite her brilliance and influence during her lifetime, her accomplishments were largely suppressed after her husband's death and subsequent political instability.

However, Nur Jahan's legacy lives on as an inspiration to women around the world. Her audacity, intellect, and ability to defy societal expectations serve as a reminder that gender should never be a hindrance to achieving greatness.

In the Thinking Girl Treasury of Real Princesses, Nur Jahan rightfully takes her place as a princess who broke boundaries and proved that women are capable of ruling with wisdom and compassion.

So let us celebrate the exceptional life and achievements of India's real princess, Nur Jahan. Her story deserves to be heard and remembered, as it showcases the power of a Thinking Girl who dared to dream beyond society's limitations.