Jun 24, 2023, 01:26 PM IST

Akbar to Aurangzeb: Mughal emperors with most number of wives

Mahipal Chouhan

Emperor Babur (reigned 1526-1530): Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, was married to five wives. His first wife, Aisha Sultan Begum, gave birth to his eldest son, Humayun.

Emperor Humayun (reigned 1530-1540, 1555-1556): Humayun, the son of Babur, had a total of four wives. One of his wives, Hamida Banu Begum, held a significant position among them, as she was the mother of his successor, Akbar.

Emperor Akbar (reigned 1556-1605): Akbar, widely regarded as one of the most celebrated Mughal emperors, is thought to have been married to around 12 women, although the precise count remains uncertain.

Emperor Jahangir (reigned 1605-1627): Jahangir, the son of Akbar, had a total of 20 wives, with Nur Jahan, his most renowned consort, occupying a prominent position among them.

Emperor Shah Jahan (reigned 1628-1658): Shah Jahan, the visionary behind the Taj Mahal, had a total of seven wives. Among them, his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal held a special place, as she served as the inspiration behind the construction of the iconic mausoleum.

Emperor Aurangzeb (reigned 1658-1707): Aurangzeb, recognized for his strict adherence to Islamic law, had 12 wives throughout his reign. However, following the passing of his first wife, he chose not to remarry.

Emperor Bahadur Shah I (reigned 1707-1712): Bahadur Shah I, the Mughal emperor, had three wives. Nizam Bai, one of his wives, held a significant role as she was the mother of his successor, Jahandar Shah

Emperor Muhammad Shah (reigned 1719-1748): Muhammad Shah, renowned for his patronage of the arts and opulent lifestyle, was married to three wives.