Author(s): Sonam, Amit

Abstract: The Mughal Empire maintained a formidable military framework comprising three discrete classifications: the traditional standing army, the provincial army, and the regional or local forces. The aforementioned forces were subordinate to petty Faujdars and Faujdars, whose duties encompassed the maintenance of specific principles and the provision of contingents in times of strife. As the most effective unit for securing victories in battle, the cavalry was regarded as the most spectacular element of the Mughal military structure. The Mansabdari system was a model cavalry organization that established a distinctive position for the horse-riding army throughout Europe. Mughal emperors organized equestrian exhibitions, during which their horses demonstrated the utmost proficiency among Indian horses by galloping a minimum of sixty miles per day. Administrative officers, referred to as Mansabdars, were obligated to furnish the Mansab with the number of personnel they commanded, thereby requiring them to furnish military service without delay whenever the occasion demanded. Although the official tally recorded sixty-six grades of Mansabdars, their practical application was considerably less. The Mansabdars, apart from being granted compensation from the state treasury, were also required to provide their proportionate share of the costs associated with carriages, elephants, horses, and beasts of burden. The Emperor held the authoritative power to ascertain appointments, promotions, subordinates, and terminations, and diligently enforced the regulations associated with the Mansabdari System. The Mansabdari System was established in recognition of military prowess and personal aptitude, and it mandated that the progeny of Mansabdars embark on a new life, distinct from their fathers' military service and social standing. Scholars have encountered difficulty in differentiating between two notable concepts, zat and swar. According to Dr. Ishwari Prasad, the assertion that The Zat represented the personal rank of the Mansabdar and an officer was eligible to receive an additional stipend known as his Sawar rank is merely an imprecise representation.

Keywords: Mughals, Medival History, Military organization, Mansabdari system.

DOI: Availabe on author(s) request

Download Full Article: The Military Organization under Mughals: A Research Review

Pages:21-24