In this episode of Empire, Anita Arnon and William Durham delve into the reign of Akbar, the Mughal Emperor, focusing on his pluralistic policies and administrative reforms. They discuss the folklore surrounding Akbar and his wise minister Birbal, highlighting Akbar's unique approach to religious tolerance, including his "Sul Ikul" policy promoting peace and civility among different faiths. The hosts explore Akbar's interest in various religions, his interfaith dialogues, and his creation of Din-e-Elahi, a philosophical doctrine. They also touch on his relationships with figures like the Jesuits and his complex stance on practices like sati, illustrating the revolutionary nature of his reign and its lasting impact on India's bureaucratic and cultural landscape. The episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of art and architecture in the next installment.
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