Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday asserted that India’s foundational ideals have never been anti-Islam or anti-Muslim, while calling for a clearer, fact-based representation of historical figures. Addressing a public gathering, Singh highlighted India’s civilizational commitment to unity and interfaith cooperation, and strongly opposed what he termed the “glorification” of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.
Historical Examples of Unity
Referencing examples from Indian history, Singh emphasized that Muslims have been integral to India’s resistance movements and struggles for sovereignty.
“Our ideals were never anti-Islam. Hakim Khan Suri fought alongside Maharana Pratap. Madari, a Muslim youth, was Shivaji Maharaj’s most trusted bodyguard,” Singh said, appealing to a shared historical legacy of courage and loyalty beyond religion.
Revisiting the Aurangzeb Narrative
In a scathing critique, Singh condemned the portrayal of Aurangzeb as a hero in history textbooks, stating it encourages admiration for a ruler known for religious bigotry.
“Even Jawaharlal Nehru called Aurangzeb a fanatic. He imposed the Jizya tax on Hindus, suppressed Sikhs, Rajputs, and Marathas, and destroyed Hindu temples,” Singh quoted Nehru from historical writings.
He further invoked the execution of Dara Shikoh, Aurangzeb’s elder brother known for translating the Upanishads and fostering syncretic understanding:
“Aurangzeb had Dara Shikoh killed. His hatred for Sanatan culture was behind it,” Singh said, adding that “true heroes” are those like Dara, Shivaji, and Maharana Pratap—not tyrants.
Controversial Legacy of Aurangzeb Resurfaces in Maharashtra
The remarks come amidst renewed political tensions in Maharashtra over the legacy of Aurangzeb. Recently, violent protests erupted in Nagpur, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb, while Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi stirred the Assembly by defending Aurangzeb as a good administrator, for which he was suspended.
Aurangzeb’s reign remains a divisive chapter in Indian history, particularly due to his military campaigns against the Marathas and his role in executing Chhatrapati Sambhaji, the son of Shivaji Maharaj.