Akbar’s attitude towards religion

Akbar the Great, the Mughal emperor who reigned from 1556 to 1605, is known for his unique attitude towards religion. Akbar was deeply interested in religious and philosophical debates, and he sought to create a syncretic religious and cultural environment within his empire. He initiated a policy known as “Sulh-e-kul,” which aimed for religious tolerance and harmony among different faiths. Akbar engaged in dialogues with representatives of various religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Jainism, in an effort to understand their perspectives and promote religious tolerance. He even created a new syncretic faith called Din-i-Ilahi, which blended elements from different religions. Akbar’s approach towards religion was characterized by openness, inclusivity, and a desire for mutual understanding.