A Large Portrait of Hamida Banu Begum, India. Wife of the famous Mughal emperor Humayun and mother of Akbar. Early 20th century.

 **Hamida Banu Begum: The Influential Mughal Empress**

### Introduction

Hamida Banu Begum is a significant yet often underappreciated figure in the history of the Mughal Empire. As the wife of Emperor Humayun and the mother of Akbar the Great, her life and contributions were pivotal in shaping the trajectory of the Mughal dynasty. Born into a noble Persian family, Hamida Banu's life was intertwined with the tumultuous events that characterized the early Mughal Empire. Her story is one of resilience, loyalty, and influence, and her legacy extends far beyond her role as a wife and mother in one of history's most powerful empires.

### Early Life and Marriage

Hamida Banu Begum was born in 1527, during the reign of her future father-in-law, Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire. She was the daughter of Sheikh Ali Akbar Jami, a Persian nobleman who was a scholar and a sufi. Her family was closely associated with the court of Babur, which allowed Hamida to grow up in an environment steeped in culture, learning, and spirituality. This upbringing would later influence her role as an empress and mother.

Hamida Banu's marriage to Humayun in 1541 was unexpected and controversial. Humayun, after losing the throne of Delhi to Sher Shah Suri, sought refuge in various parts of the subcontinent. During this period, he met Hamida Banu at the age of fourteen when she was living under the care of her maternal uncle, Mirza Hindal, who was a half-brother of Humayun. Humayun was immediately struck by her beauty and intelligence. However, she initially refused his proposal, citing his political instability and her youth. Eventually, under the persuasion of her family and Humayun's persistence, she agreed to the marriage. Their union was not just a personal alliance but also a political one, solidifying Humayun's position among the nobility who had remained loyal to him during his exile.

### Life in Exile

The early years of Hamida Banu Begum's marriage were marked by hardship and uncertainty. After their marriage, Humayun and Hamida spent several years in exile, wandering across the deserts of Rajasthan and the mountains of Afghanistan. This period was characterized by constant danger, lack of resources, and the ever-present threat of capture by Sher Shah's forces. Despite these difficulties, Hamida remained steadfastly by Humayun's side, providing him with support and encouragement.

It was during this time, in 1542, that Hamida Banu gave birth to their son, Jalal-ud-din Muhammad, later known as Akbar. The birth of Akbar was a significant event, as he would go on to become one of the greatest rulers in Indian history. Despite the harsh conditions of exile, Hamida ensured that her son was raised with the utmost care and attention, instilling in him the values of justice, tolerance, and wisdom that would later define his reign.

### Return to Power

In 1555, after years of wandering and battles, Humayun finally recaptured Delhi with the help of the Persian Empire. Hamida Banu Begum played a crucial role during this period, both as a counselor to Humayun and as a mother to Akbar. Her wisdom and resilience were invaluable in helping Humayun navigate the challenges of reclaiming his throne.

Unfortunately, Humayun's return to power was short-lived. In 1556, just six months after regaining control of Delhi, Humayun died in a tragic accident. His sudden death left the empire in a precarious position, with Akbar, then only 13 years old, as the heir to the throne. During this critical period, Hamida Banu Begum emerged as a key figure in securing Akbar's succession.

### Role as the Mother of Akbar

Hamida Banu Begum's influence on Akbar was profound. She was not just a mother but also a mentor and advisor to her son during his early years as emperor. After Humayun's death, Hamida played a significant role in the regency that governed on behalf of the young Akbar. Her advice and guidance were crucial in helping him navigate the complexities of ruling a vast and diverse empire.

One of Hamida Banu's most notable contributions was her role in shaping Akbar's policies of religious tolerance and cultural integration. As a deeply spiritual person with a strong connection to Sufism, Hamida Banu instilled in Akbar the importance of respecting different faiths and cultures. This influence is evident in Akbar's later policies, such as the abolition of the jizya tax on non-Muslims and his efforts to promote dialogue between different religious communities.

Hamida Banu Begum also played a key role in maintaining the stability of the Mughal court during Akbar's early reign. She was instrumental in managing the relationships between the various factions within the court, ensuring that Akbar's rule remained secure. Her diplomatic skills and understanding of court politics were invaluable in navigating the challenges of the time.

### Legacy

Hamida Banu Begum's legacy is often overshadowed by the more prominent figures of her husband and son, but her contributions to the Mughal Empire were significant. She was a woman of great intelligence, strength, and wisdom, who played a crucial role in the survival and success of the Mughal dynasty during its formative years.

Her influence on Akbar, in particular, cannot be overstated. The values she imparted to him—tolerance, justice, and a commitment to the welfare of his subjects—became the cornerstone of his reign and helped to establish the Mughal Empire as one of the most powerful and enlightened empires of its time. Akbar's policies of religious tolerance and his efforts to integrate the diverse cultures of India were a direct reflection of the upbringing and values he received from his mother.

In addition to her political and maternal roles, Hamida Banu Begum was also a patron of architecture and culture. She commissioned the construction of Humayun's Tomb in Delhi, one of the most magnificent examples of Mughal architecture. This tomb, which later served as a model for the Taj Mahal, stands as a testament to her love and respect for her husband and her contribution to the cultural heritage of India.

### Conclusion

Hamida Banu Begum's life is a remarkable story of resilience, loyalty, and influence. As the wife of Humayun and the mother of Akbar, she played a crucial role in the survival and success of the Mughal Empire. Her contributions to the political stability of the empire, her influence on Akbar's policies, and her patronage of culture and architecture have left a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated today. Though often overshadowed by the more prominent figures of her time, Hamida Banu Begum remains an important figure in the history of the Mughal Empire, deserving of recognition and respect.