Dara Shikoh was the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shaj Jahan. He was of a liberal mindset, like his father.

Dara Shikoh was a great Scholar, he translated Upnishads (Ancient Indian Scriptures) in to Persian. He is also credited to carrying forward the spirit of “Hindu-Muslim-Unity” in sub-continent. He had also laid the foundation stone of “The Golden Temple” (most sacred religious shrine of Sikhs).

Dara Shikoh’s liberal policies were seen by Ulemas as a threat to their status & well-being. Ulemas felt that in a secular system, their social status will be undermined. Dara’s younger brother Aurangzeb, being a hardliner, enjoyed the support of Ulemas.

In 1657, Shajjahan’s illness triggered a battle for succession amongst his sons. Aurangzeb emerged victorious in this struggle. He defeated Dara in battle of Agra. Dara Shikoh kept trying to re-capture the lost power with help of ohter Idian Kings. However he was betrayed by an ally and was handed over to Aurangzeb. He was killed in 1659.

Many scholoars believe that the history of our subcontinent would have been very different, if Dara Shikoh would have defeated Aurangzeb.

Today’s soceity too is divided in to Daras and Aurangzebs. Even today, our political leaders get more attention & success when they follow the foot-steps of Aurangzeb. The future of our sub-continent will be different if we become aware of our histoy and give our political leader ship in hands of Dara Shikohs.