20.3 Mansabdari System

I. Introduction

The Mansabdari system, an integral component of the Mughal Empire’s governance, represents a remarkable administrative and military structure that shaped the empire’s history. With its origins rooted in the Turko-Mongol tradition and officially implemented by Emperor Akbar in 1571 AD, the system revolutionized the empire’s organizational framework. Through a meticulous classification of ranks, recruitment process, and allocation of responsibilities, the Mansabdari system aimed to consolidate power, establish social order, and maintain efficient governance. Understanding the intricacies and impact of this system is essential for unraveling the dynamics of the Mughal Empire and its historical significance.

II. Origins and Development of the Mansabdari System

A. The Turko-Mongol Tradition and Its Influence

The Mansabdari System finds its roots in the Turko-Mongol tradition, which encompassed various administrative and military practices. This tradition had a profound impact on the structure and organization of the Mughal Empire.

The Turko-Mongol tradition emphasized a decimal-based organizational system for the army. It divided the army into units of 100 (known as “yuz-bashi”) or 1000 (known as “hazara”). This decimal-based structure formed the foundation of the Mansabdari System’s numerical ranking.

B. Introduction of the Mansabdari System by Genghis (Changez) Khan

The Mansabdari System was not an invention of the Mughals but rather a system that was established by Genghis Khan, the founder of the Mongol Empire. Genghis Khan introduced the system to effectively organize and govern his vast empire, which stretched across Asia and Europe.

C. Adoption of the System by Babur and Continuation During Humayun’s Reign

Babur, the first Mughal Emperor and a descendant of Genghis Khan, brought the Mansabdari System to India when he invaded and established the Mughal Empire. During Babur’s reign, the system continued to be implemented, laying the foundation for its further development under subsequent rulers.

The system also continued during the reign of Humayun, who succeeded Babur. Although Humayun faced challenges and temporary loss of the empire, the Mansabdari System remained a crucial component of Mughal governance.

D. Official Implementation by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1571 AD

The Mansabdari System was officially implemented in 1571 AD by Emperor Akbar, the third Mughal Emperor. Akbar recognized the potential of the system in establishing a structured administrative framework for the empire.

Under Akbar’s rule, the Mansabdari System underwent further development and refinement. He established a hierarchical ranking system for the Mansabdars, with each officer receiving a “mansab” or rank that determined their salary, benefits, and responsibilities. Akbar aimed to integrate the three major functionaries of the empire—the nobility, armed forces, and bureaucracy—into a single administrative pool.

Akbar introduced 66 grades of mansabdars, but only 33 of them were used in the Mughal administration. The ranks ranged from 10 to 10,000, with higher ranks being granted to members of the royal family and those with royal blood. The Mansabdars were appointed and dismissed at the discretion of the Mughal Emperor.

III. Structure and Classification of Mansabdars

A. Meaning and Significance of the Term “Mansabdar”

The term “Mansabdar” refers to a rank holder or an officer in the Mughal Empire. It derives from the Arabic word “Mansab,” which means rank or position. The Mansabdars held important positions in the Mughal administration and played a crucial role in the governance of the empire.

B. The Concept of Mansab and Its Elements (Zat and Sawar Ranks)

The Mansab of a Mansabdar consisted of two essential elements: the zat and sawar ranks. These ranks determined the status, responsibilities, and privileges of the Mansabdar within the administrative hierarchy.

1. Zat Rank: The zat rank represented the noble’s personal rank and indicated their pay and status within the Mughal administration. It determined their position in the hierarchical structure.
2. Sawar Rank: The sawar rank, on the other hand, determined the number of horses a Mansabdar was required to maintain or expected to maintain. It indicated their military responsibilities and the strength of their cavalry force.

C. Hierarchy of Mansabdars and Their Classification

The Mansabdars were classified into various ranks and categories, representing different levels of authority and influence within the Mughal Empire. Let’s explore the hierarchy and classification of the Mansabdars:

1. Amir

• Mansabdars with a rank of 1000 or lower were denoted as Amir.
• The term “Amir” indicated their position within the administrative hierarchy.

2. Amir-al-Kabir (Great Amir)

• Mansabdars with a rank above 1000 but below 5000 were known as Amir-al-Kabir or the Great Amir.
• This rank represented a higher level of authority and responsibility within the Mughal administration.

3. Amir of Amirs (Amir-al-Umara)

• Mansabdars with a rank higher than 5000 were given the prestigious title of Amir-al-Umara, which translates to the Amir of Amirs.
• This rank was reserved for the most influential and powerful Mansabdars, often members of the royal family or those with close ties to royalty.

The classification of Mansabdars based on their ranks and positions allowed for a clear hierarchy within the Mughal administration. It established a structured system of authority and ensured that responsibilities and privileges were appropriately allocated.

IV. Recruitment and Appointment of Mansabdars

The Mansabdari System implemented by Emperor Akbar not only introduced a structured hierarchy for the Mansabdars but also established a specific process for their recruitment and appointment.

A. Selection Process and Recommendations

The recruitment of Mansabdars involved a meticulous selection process, which primarily relied on recommendations and endorsements from influential figures. The following points highlight the selection process:

• Recommendations: Prospective Mansabdars needed endorsements from influential courtiers, nobles, or high-ranking officials to be considered for a Mansab (rank).
• Letter of Recommendation: The recommendations were often in the form of a letter of recommendation, where the person vouching for the candidate’s abilities and loyalty would endorse their appointment.
• Network and Contacts: Having strong connections and alliances within the Mughal court significantly increased the chances of being recommended for a Mansab.

B. Role of Mirbakshi and Other Influential Figures

The position of Mirbakshi played a crucial role in the recruitment and appointment of Mansabdars. The Mirbakshi was responsible for the imperial correspondence and the maintenance of records related to Mansabs. Here’s how influential figures contributed to the process:

• Mirbakshi: The Mirbakshi, the head of the imperial chancery, played a pivotal role in coordinating and overseeing the appointments of Mansabdars.
• Influential Courtiers: Courtiers and advisors with close proximity to the emperor held significant influence in recommending candidates for Mansabs.
• Nobles and Officials: Prominent nobles and high-ranking officials also played a part in influencing the selection and appointment of Mansabdars.

C. Emperor’s Authority in Granting Mansabs without Recommendations

While recommendations were the norm, the emperor retained the authority to grant Mansabs directly without any formal recommendations. This aspect showcases the emperor’s absolute power and discretion in the appointment process:

• Royal Authority: The emperor could personally appoint individuals of their choosing, bypassing the recommendations and following their own judgment.
• Meritocracy: The direct appointments allowed the emperor to select talented individuals solely based on their skills, merit, or loyalty, irrespective of their social status or connections.

D. Promotions Based on Performance and Lineage

The Mansabdars’ promotions within the system were not solely dependent on their initial appointment. Performance and lineage also played significant roles in determining their advancement:

• Performance-based Promotions: Mansabdars who demonstrated exceptional skills, loyalty, and achievements were more likely to receive promotions to higher ranks.
• Lineage and Hereditary Mansabs: In some cases, Mansabs could be inherited by the descendants of the incumbent Mansabdar, ensuring a continuation of their family’s influence and status within the system.

E. Inclusion of Individuals from Diverse Races and Religions

The Mughal Empire fostered an inclusive approach by allowing individuals from diverse races and religions to be recruited as Mansabdars. This policy aimed to promote diversity and assimilation within the empire:

• Foreign Nobles: People of foreign origins, such as Persians, Turks, and Central Asians, were eligible for Mansabs if they met the necessary criteria and received recommendations.
• Hindus and Rajputs: The Mughal Empire also extended Mansabs to Hindu and Rajput nobles, integrating them into the administrative and military structure.

The recruitment and appointment process of Mansabdars reflected a blend of recommendations, imperial authority, performance-based promotions, and inclusivity. The system ensured a balance between meritocracy, loyalty, and the consolidation of power within the Mughal Empire.

V. Responsibilities and Duties of Mansabdars

The Mansabdars within the Mughal Empire held significant responsibilities and duties that encompassed both military and administrative domains.

A. Military and Administrative Roles

The Mansabdars were entrusted with crucial military and administrative functions, reflecting their dual roles within the Mughal Empire. The following points highlight their key responsibilities:

• Leadership in the Army: Mansabdars were appointed as military commanders and leaders, responsible for organizing and leading troops into battle.
• Strategic Planning: They played a vital role in formulating military strategies and tactics to defend the empire and expand its territories.
• Administrative Duties: In addition to their military responsibilities, Mansabdars were assigned administrative tasks within their assigned regions or provinces.

B. Maintenance of a Specified Contingent, including Horses and Equipment

To fulfill their military obligations, Mansabdars were required to maintain a specified contingent comprising soldiers, horses, and equipment. The following points shed light on this aspect:

• Contingent Size: The Mansabdars’ contingent size varied based on their rank and the Mansab they held. Higher-ranked Mansabdars commanded larger contingents.
• Horsemen and Troops: Mansabdars were responsible for maintaining a certain number of horsemen and troops as specified by their Mansab rank.
• Arms and Equipment: They were expected to provide and maintain necessary arms, ammunition, and equipment for their troops.

C. Appointment to Civil and Military Positions, Excluding Judiciary

Mansabdars had the privilege of being appointed to various civil and military positions within the empire. However, they were not involved in the judiciary system. The following points outline their roles:

• Civil Administrative Positions: Mansabdars could be appointed as administrators or governors of provinces, ensuring effective governance and administration.
• Military Offices: They held positions such as commanders, generals, or officers in the Mughal army, contributing to its structure and organization.
• Exclusion from Judiciary: Mansabdars were not involved in the judicial system and did not have authority in legal matters.

D. Mansabdars’ Contribution to Revenue Collection and Law Enforcement

Mansabdars played a crucial role in revenue collection and law enforcement, contributing to the functioning of the empire. The following points highlight their responsibilities:

• Revenue Collection: Mansabdars were responsible for collecting revenue from their assigned regions or provinces, ensuring a steady flow of income to the imperial treasury.
• Law and Order: They played a role in maintaining law and order within their jurisdictions, working in collaboration with local officials and enforcing imperial policies.
• Coordination with Subordinates: Mansabdars worked closely with their subordinate officials, including revenue collectors and law enforcement officers, to ensure efficient governance.

The Mansabdars’ responsibilities encompassed a wide range of military, administrative, and fiscal duties within the Mughal Empire. Their contributions to the empire’s defense, governance, revenue collection, and law enforcement were instrumental in maintaining stability and consolidating the empire’s power.

VI. Rank and Remuneration in the Mansabdari System

The rank and remuneration system within the Mansabdari system played a crucial role in establishing the hierarchy and ensuring the loyalty of Mansabdars.

A. Mansabs as a Determinant of Rank and Status

One of the key elements of the Mansabdari system was the concept of “Mansabs,” which served as the basis for determining the rank and status of individuals within the system. Here are some important points regarding Mansabs:

• Mansabs: Mansabs were ranks or positions granted to individuals by the Mughal emperor. They represented a combination of military and administrative responsibilities and were directly linked to the number of soldiers (sawars) an individual could maintain.
• Ranking: Mansabs were classified into various levels, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand. The higher the Mansab, the greater the rank and prestige of the Mansabdar.
• Hierarchy: Mansabs created a hierarchical structure within the Mughal administration, ensuring a clear chain of command and facilitating efficient governance.

B. Calculation of Salaries and Benefits

The remuneration package of Mansabdars consisted of both monetary and non-monetary benefits. The calculation of salaries and benefits was a comprehensive process that took into account several factors:

• Zat and Sawar Ranks: The zat rank indicated the personal status or rank of the Mansabdar, while the sawar rank represented the number of cavalrymen under their command. The combination of these ranks determined the overall Mansab rank and the associated salary.
• Payroll Register: A detailed register, known as the “Chehra,” was maintained to record the ranks and salaries of Mansabdars. This register provided an overview of the entire Mansabdari system and facilitated efficient payment disbursement.
• Naqdi and Jagir: Mansabdars received remuneration in the form of Naqdi (cash) and grants of jagirs (landed estates). The Naqdi component provided immediate monetary support, while jagirs offered a long-term source of income.

C. Payment in Cash and Grants of Jagirs

The remuneration system within the Mansabdari system involved a combination of cash payments and grants of jagirs. Here are key points related to this aspect:

• Naqdi: Mansabdars received a regular cash allowance known as Naqdi. This cash payment served as a vital component of their overall remuneration and covered their day-to-day expenses.
• Jagirs: In addition to Naqdi, Mansabdars were granted jagirs, which were revenue-yielding lands or estates. These jagirs provided a stable source of income and ensured the Mansabdars’ financial stability.

D. Role of Mansabdars in Paying Salaries to Their Troops

Mansabdars not only received salaries but also played a significant role in paying salaries to their troops. This system served multiple purposes:

• Troop Maintenance: Mansabdars were responsible for maintaining a specified contingent of troops, including horses and equipment. They utilized a portion of their salaries to fund the expenses associated with troop upkeep.
• Ensuring Loyalty: By being directly involved in the payment of salaries, Mansabdars could establish personal connections with their troops and foster loyalty and discipline within their ranks.
• Efficient Administration: The decentralized salary distribution system facilitated effective administration and reduced the burden on the central treasury.

VII. Features and Characteristics of the Mansabdari System

The Mansabdari system, with its unique features and characteristics, played a pivotal role in the functioning of the Mughal Empire.

A. Uniformity and Centralization in Mughal Administration

The Mansabdari system brought a sense of uniformity and centralization to the Mughal administration. Key points include:

• Standardized Ranks: The system introduced a hierarchical structure based on the Mansab ranks, which provided a clear framework for organizing the bureaucracy and armed forces.
• Controlled Promotions: The central authority, represented by the Mughal emperor, had control over the appointment, promotion, and dismissal of Mansabdars, ensuring a centralized system of governance.
• Payroll Management: The meticulous recording of ranks and salaries in the Chehra (payroll register) facilitated efficient administration and financial accountability.

B. Integration of Nobility, Armed Forces, and Bureaucracy

The Mansabdari system played a vital role in integrating various elements of the Mughal Empire. Key aspects include:

• Nobility and Aristocracy: The Mansabdars formed the nobility of the empire, and their ranks determined their social standing and privileges.
• Military and Administrative Fusion: Mansabdars held dual roles as military commanders and administrators, bridging the gap between the armed forces and civil administration.
• Bureaucratic Appointments: The system provided a mechanism for appointing Mansabdars to key bureaucratic positions, contributing to the efficient functioning of the empire.

C. Caste and Religious Inclusivity in Troop Recruitment

The Mansabdari system exhibited a notable degree of inclusivity in terms of caste and religion. Important considerations include:

• Diverse Troop Composition: The system allowed for the recruitment of individuals from various castes, communities, and religious backgrounds into the Mughal army.
• Meritocracy and Talent: The focus on merit and capabilities, rather than social or religious affiliations, ensured the selection of capable individuals for Mansabdari positions.
• Integration of Rajputs and Other Groups: The inclusion of Rajputs, who were traditionally known for their warrior ethos, further reinforced the composite nature of the Mughal military forces.

D. Strengthening of the Mughal Emperor’s Position of Power

The Mansabdari system played a significant role in consolidating and strengthening the power of the Mughal emperor. Key points include:

• Loyalty and Dependence: Mansabdars owed their positions, salaries, and privileges to the emperor, fostering loyalty and dependence on the central authority.
• Control over Aristocracy: The system allowed the emperor to exercise control over the nobility by granting and revoking Mansabs, thereby asserting dominance and mitigating potential challenges to the throne.
• Personalized Patronage: The direct relationship between the emperor and Mansabdars created opportunities for personal patronage, cementing alliances and securing support within the empire.

VIII. Evaluation and Challenges of the Mansabdari System

The Mansabdari system, despite its merits and advantages, was not without its fair share of challenges and shortcomings.

A. Merits of the Mansabdari System

The Mansabdari system brought several benefits to the Mughal Empire, contributing to its political stability and administrative efficiency. Key merits include:

1. Political Unification and Administrative Efficiency
   • The system provided a standardized structure for the administration, ensuring uniformity and efficiency in governance.
   • Mansabdars, appointed to both military and administrative positions, facilitated effective communication and coordination between different regions of the empire.
2. Weakening of Feudalism and Caste Discrimination
   • The system broke down traditional feudal structures by emphasizing meritocracy and performance rather than hereditary privileges.
   • It provided opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of their caste or social status, to rise through the ranks based on their abilities.
3. Recognition of Merit and Reduction of Nobility Influence
   • The Mansabdari system placed significant importance on the capabilities and achievements of individuals, fostering a culture of meritocracy within the empire.
   • This reduced the influence of the traditional nobility, ensuring that positions and privileges were granted based on competence rather than birthright.

B. Demerits and Shortcomings of the System

Despite its positive aspects, the Mansabdari system faced several challenges that affected its functionality and long-term viability. Key demerits include:

1. Lack of Organic Center and Cohesive Force in the Army
   • The system relied heavily on individual Mansabdars and their personal contingents, leading to a fragmented and decentralized military structure.
   • This lack of a cohesive force hindered effective coordination and strategic decision-making, particularly during times of conflict.
2. Loyalty Conflicts between Troops and Mansabdars
   • Mansabdars had the authority to recruit and maintain their own troops, resulting in loyalty conflicts between the soldiers and their commanding officers.
   • The troops often had stronger allegiance to their Mansabdar rather than to the central authority, which posed challenges to maintaining discipline and loyalty to the empire.
3. Factionalism and Challenges in Maintaining Governance
   • The Mansabdari system led to the formation of factions within the empire, with Mansabdars aligning themselves with different power centers and pursuing their own interests.
   • These factional rivalries and power struggles created governance challenges, as the central authority had to navigate and balance the competing interests of the Mansabdars.

IX. Transformation and Decline of the Mansabdari System

The Mansabdari system underwent several transformations and eventually faced a decline during the later years of the Mughal Empire.

A. Evolution of the System through Different Phases

The Mansabdari system, developed under the direction of Emperor Akbar, formed the institutional foundation of the Mughal government. However, as time progressed, the system underwent various changes. These transformations can be broadly classified into five stages:

1. The numerical rank: The initial phase involved the establishment of numerical ranks within the Mughal military structure. This rank hierarchy provided a clear framework for organizing the administrative and military officials.
2. Decline in effective strength: Over time, the effective strength of the mansabdars fell below the nominal strength. This decline led to challenges in maintaining a cohesive force within the system.
3. Introduction of double rank: During this stage, a significant change was introduced in the form of double rank. Mansabdars were granted a double rank, which allowed them to maintain a higher number of soldiers without incurring additional costs.
4. Focus on troopers’ rank: The troopers’ rank became a mere military fact, distinct from the mansabdars’ administrative rank. This shift emphasized the importance of a strong troop presence for the Mughal military operations.
5. Reorganization by successors: In the final phase, the mansabdari system was reorganized by Akbar’s successors. Their efforts aimed to address the shortcomings of the system and adapt it to the changing circumstances of the empire.

B. Changes and Reforms under Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb

Each of the Mughal emperors who succeeded Akbar implemented their own changes and reforms to the Mansabdari system.

1. Jahangir: Following in his father Akbar’s footsteps, Jahangir increased the number of mansabdars from 12,000 to 40,000. He introduced a provision called “du-aspa sih-aspa” in the sawar rank, providing additional payments for a specific portion of the rank. However, Jahangir’s focus on luxurious activities and lack of interest in state affairs led to a less efficient administration of the system during his reign.
2. Shah Jahan: During Shah Jahan’s rule, the number of mansabdars increased further, creating a scarcity of land for granting jagirs. As a result, Shah Jahan issued an order to reduce the number of sawars under the jurisdiction of specific mansabdars. However, he also increased the number of “du-aspa sih-aspa” awards on a larger scale, allowing mansabdars to retain a portion of their sanctioned strength without reducing their claim on the maintenance amount.
3. Aurangzeb: Under Aurangzeb’s reign, the Mansabdari system demonstrated competency, although Aurangzeb’s religious policies resulted in providing mansabs primarily to Muslims. Numerous amenities and services were offered to Muslim nobles during this period. Aurangzeb also established a large contingent of troopers, further emphasizing the importance of a strong military force.

C. Factors Contributing to the Decline of the System

Despite the efforts made by Akbar and his successors to establish and maintain the Mansabdari system, several factors contributed to its eventual decline:

1. Lack of strong successors: The system heavily relied on a strong ruler to maintain its effectiveness. After Aurangzeb’s reign, the Mughal Empire faced a lack of capable successors who could capture the spirit of Akbar’s age. This led to a gradual decline in the administration of the system.
2. Factionalism and power struggles: As the mansabdars gained significant power within the system, they increasingly involved themselves in political affairs and aspired to become influential nobles. This factionalism created challenges in maintaining a fair and consistent system of governance.
3. Weakening of central authority: The Mansabdari system lacked an organic center and a cohesive force that should be present in a national army. The troops became more loyal to their respective mansabdars than to the Mughal emperor, weakening the central authority’s control.

D. Impact of the Mansabdari System on the Disintegration of the Empire

The decline of the Mansabdari system significantly impacted the disintegration of the Mughal Empire. As the system became less effective in maintaining administrative efficiency and unifying the diverse regions of the empire, it contributed to the overall weakening and fragmentation of Mughal authority.

The power struggles among the mansabdars, coupled with the lack of a strong central authority, further accelerated the disintegration process. The empire’s inability to adapt the Mansabdari system to changing circumstances and address the emerging challenges ultimately led to its downfall.

X. Conclusion

The Mansabdari system, with its hierarchical structure and classification of ranks, played a crucial role in the Mughal Empire’s administration and military organization.

A. Summary of Key Points Discussed

Throughout this module, we have examined various aspects of the Mansabdari system, including its origins and development, structure and classification, recruitment and appointment process, responsibilities and duties of Mansabdars, rank and remuneration, as well as its features and characteristics. Additionally, we explored the system’s transformation and decline, highlighting the changes and reforms implemented by rulers such as Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb. We also delved into the factors contributing to its decline and its impact on the disintegration of the Mughal Empire.

B. Evaluation of the Mansabdari System’s Overall Impact

The Mansabdari system had both merits and shortcomings. Evaluating its impact allows us to gain a comprehensive understanding of its role in the Mughal Empire. Key points for evaluation include:

• Merits of the Mansabdari System:
  • Political unification and administrative efficiency.
  • Weakening of feudalism and caste discrimination.
  • Recognition of merit and reduction of nobility influence.
• Demerits and Shortcomings of the System:
  • Lack of organic center and cohesive force in the army.
  • Loyalty conflicts between troops and Mansabdars.
  • Factionalism and challenges in maintaining governance.

C. Significance and Relevance of Studying the Mansabdari System in Mughal History

Studying the Mansabdari system holds great significance in understanding the dynamics of the Mughal Empire and its administrative structure. Some key points regarding its significance include:

• Insights into Mughal Administration: The system provides insights into the hierarchical and centralized nature of Mughal administration, as well as the integration of nobility, armed forces, and bureaucracy.
• Social and Religious Dynamics: The inclusivity of the system in terms of caste and religious diversity reflects the complexities of the Mughal Empire and its approach to governance.
• Impact on Power Dynamics: The Mansabdari system had a profound impact on the distribution of power and authority within the empire. It influenced the loyalty of Mansabdars, their relationships with the central authority, and the overall stability of the empire.

XI. Practice Questions (250 words)

1. Discuss the evolution of the Mansabdari system in the Mughal Empire, highlighting its phases and key developments over time. How did this system contribute to the centralization of power and administrative efficiency in the empire?
2. Analyze the factors that led to the decline of the Mansabdari system in the Mughal Empire. How did changes and reforms under the reigns of Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb impact the system? Assess the implications of its decline on the disintegration of the empire.
3. Evaluate the role of the Mansabdari system in integrating the nobility, armed forces, and bureaucracy in the Mughal Empire. How did the system contribute to the unification of these institutions? Discuss its impact on social cohesion and governance.
4. Examine the responsibilities and duties of Mansabdars in the Mughal Empire. How did their military and administrative roles contribute to the maintenance of law and order, revenue collection, and governance? Discuss the challenges faced by Mansabdars in fulfilling their duties effectively.
5. Critically analyze the merits and demerits of the Mansabdari system in the Mughal Empire. Discuss the political, social, and economic implications of the system, including its impact on feudalism, caste discrimination, and the recognition of merit. Assess its effectiveness as a governance structure and its role in shaping the empire’s history.