The Ministry of Culture has recently instated a seven-member panel from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in a bid to uncover the grave of Dara Shikoh. The believed resting place of this historical figure is speculated to be located at the Humayun’s Tomb complex in Delhi, among around 140 other graves of the Mughal clan.
Understanding Dara Shikoh
Born in the year 1615 and perished in 1659, Dara Shikoh was the eldest son of Shah Jahan. Described as a “liberal Muslim”, he devoted his life to search for commonalities between Hindu and Islamic traditions, making him a central figure in promoting interfaith understanding in India.
Dara Shikoh was not only a pioneer of this academic movement but also had an in-depth understanding of major world religions, with a particular focus on Islam and Hinduism. Unlike his sibling Aurangzeb, Dara Shikoh’s interests inclined more towards philosophy and mysticism than military pursuits.
In 1655, Shah Jahan declared Dara Shikoh as the Crown Prince, however, circumstance changed when the father fell sick. A bitter struggle for the throne ensued which led to Dara Shikoh’s defeat by his younger brother Aurangzeb in 1657. Dara Shikoh’s life came to a brutal end on 30th August 1659, assassinated by Aurangzeb when he was 44 years old.
Reflection of Dara Shikoh’s Work
Dara Shikoh’s most impactful works include Majma-ul-Bahrain (Mingling of Two Oceans) and Sirr-i-Akbar (Great Mystery), both engineered towards establishing connections between Hinduism and Islam. His works symbolize the harmonization of two differing faiths and demonstrate the potential co-existence of different religious cultures.
Contributions to the Promotion of Indian Culture
Having proficiency in Sanskrit as well as Persian enabled Dara Shikoh to play a pivotal role in popularizing Indian culture and Hindu religious thought. One of his significant accomplishments was translating Upanishads and other important sources of Hindu religion and spirituality from Sanskrit to Persian.
Through these translations, Dara Shikoh was largely responsible for introducing Hindu culture and spiritual traditions to Europe and the West. His efforts have left an indelible mark on India’s intellectual and religious heritage, making him a pivotal figure in history.
The search for Dara Shikoh’s grave in the Humayun’s Tomb complex is not just a quest to rediscover buried history but also a journey to rekindle the lessons and values advocated by him, which still hold relevance in modern times.
Significance: Why this Exploration Matters?
Locating Dara Shikoh’s grave is more than uncovering a piece of history; it’s about renewing our collective understanding of our past. His life and work embody the principles of tolerance, unity, and peace; principles that seem more relevant today than ever before. By reconstructing our link to Dara Shikoh, we reconnect with these timeless principles, allowing them to guide our steps towards building a harmonious future.
As per reports from IE, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) panel is determined to cast light on this forgotten grave and the legacy that Dara Shikoh left behind.
