The question asks to identify the contemporary of Akbar who stated that a ruler had the right to choose his successor among his sons. This requires knowledge of prominent literary figures and their political views during the Mughal era, specifically during Akbar's reign.
Correct Option: A) Tulsidas was a contemporary of Akbar and his writings and philosophical views often touched upon the duties and rights of a ruler, including the right to choose a successor among his sons, reflecting the prevailing monarchical traditions of the time.
The question asks to identify the father of Dara Shikoh, Shuja, Aurangzeb, and Murad. This requires knowledge of the Mughal lineage and key historical figures.
Correct Option: D) Shah Jahan was the father of Dara Shikoh, Shuja, Aurangzeb, and Murad. These four brothers were involved in a fierce war of succession for the Mughal throne.
The question asks to identify Shah Jahan's initial choice for his successor, indicated by a significant increase in his mansab rank. This requires knowledge of Mughal history, specifically the succession struggles among Shah Jahan's sons.
B) Dara — Shah Jahan openly favored his eldest son, Dara Shikoh, and designated him as his successor. He bestowed upon Dara the highest honors, including an unprecedented increase in his mansab rank from 40,000 zat to 60,000 zat, signifying his position as the heir apparent. Dara was a scholar, a Sufi mystic, and was often seen by Shah Jahan as his intellectual and spiritual heir.
The question asks to identify a major factor, along with Dara's underestimation of his opponents, that led to his defeat. This requires knowledge of the historical context surrounding Dara Shikoh's conflicts, particularly the War of Succession among Shah Jahan's sons.
C) Divided counsel. During the War of Succession, Dara Shikoh suffered from a lack of decisive leadership and conflicting advice from his generals and advisors. This 'divided counsel' led to strategic errors, indecision, and a lack of coordination, which significantly weakened his position against the more united and determined forces of Aurangzeb. This, combined with his underestimation of Aurangzeb's military prowess and strategic cunning, proved fatal for Dara.
The question asks to identify the son of Dara Shikoh, a prominent figure in Mughal history. This requires knowledge of the family tree and key historical figures of the Mughal Empire.
A) Sulaiman Shikoh — Sulaiman Shikoh was indeed the eldest son of Dara Shikoh. He was actively involved in the war of succession alongside his father against Aurangzeb, and after his father's defeat, he sought refuge but was eventually captured and executed by Aurangzeb.
The question asks to identify the kingdom ruled by Raja Jaswant Singh. This is a factual question related to Indian history, specifically the rulers of various princely states or kingdoms.
Correct Option: C) Jodhpur