206. Babur: Guns, Gardens & Diamonds

In the third episode of their series on Babur, Anita and William discuss Babur's mixed feelings about India after conquering Delhi and Agra, his acquisition of a famous diamond possibly the Koh-i-Noor, and his disdain for the local culture and climate. Despite his negativity, Babur establishes the first Mughal garden in Agra and recognizes the importance of artillery, tasking Ustad Ali with creating new guns. Facing a greater threat from the Rajput leader Rana Sanga, Babur employs propaganda and vows to abstain from alcohol to rally his troops. After a brutal battle at Khanwa, Babur defeats Rana Sanga, but remains unhappy in India, longing for Kabul. He strategically conciliates with the Rajputs, bringing them into his government, and begins writing his memoirs. As Babur's health declines, his son Humayun falls ill, leading Babur to offer his own life in exchange, resulting in his death and Humayun's recovery.