Role of Women in the Political and Military Relations of the Gurkhani Court of India

Although attention to agency/role versus structure has been the main feature of Muslim historians and scholars in writing history, women's role in history has been almost neglected. Based on historical data and reports, this article examines the role, extent and manner of women's participation as historical actors in political and military relations during the rule of the six Gurkhani kings (Babur, Homayoun, Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb). It seems that in addition to personal merit and skill and ability, the spirit of tolerance of the Gurkhani sultans has not been ineffective in providing the necessary context for women to play a role. Women in political activities such as assisting in gaining power, managing government affairs, participating in political events and resolving disputes between emperors and princes and courtiers; Funding for the military, intelligence gathering, and even direct participation in battles through skills such as javelin throwing and shooting played a significant role.