The Mughals, during their more than three-century reign over the Indian subcontinent, left an indelible mark on what we now recognize as ‘Hindustani’ culture. Their legacy endures through our food, language, architecture, and religious as well as cultural practices. While their influence on Indian traditions is widely acknowledged, what’s less known is that this cultural exchange wasn’t one-sided. India, too, left a lasting impression on the Mughals – especially when it came to indulgences. Though not often discussed in mainstream narratives, the story of alcohol in the Mughal court is a fascinating – and often hidden – chapter of history. Join us as we uncork this secret love affair of the Mughals and alcohol in the Mughal Court.
Alcohol In The Mughal Court: Rise And Rituals
India’s Tryst With Alcohol Since Ancient Times
It is a common assumption that the Mughals solely influenced our art and architecture. While this is true, the exchange of cultural influences was not one-sided. Even before the arrival of the Mughals, Indians were recognized for their advanced technologies and philosophy, which included knowledge of brewing alcohol.
Many different regions across India, since ancient times, have been producing their own alcoholic beverages. These communities were mostly of tribal or rural people, however, the demand for such beverages was also observed in the more urban centers, including the royal courts!
Excavations in many regions of India and Pakistan reveal pots, vessels, distillation utensils, and vats that hint only towards one thing – alcohol production was a promiment activity since the times of ancient Indian civilizations. Even in Hindu scriptures, there are mentions of alcoholic drinks like ‘Soma’ and ‘Sura’. Many scriptures say that these drinks were consumed regularly even by the mightiest gods!
Indian tribal and rural communities have been producing alcohol from different kinds of fruits, flowers, and spices for ages. These include Mahua/Mahura and Handia (Central India), Toddy (Southern Coast), Apong (North-east India), and many others. When the Mughals arrived, a cultural exchange was bound to happen – and that is how they got introduced to the ‘desi’ way of brewing alcohol!
Mughal Emperors And Their Relationship With Alcohol
When and how alcohol entered the Mughal Courts cannot be clearly defined due to discrepancies in historical records, however, it was a known fact that the Mughals loved their intoxicants, especially opium and alcohol. These intoxicants significantly shaped the economic, political, and cultural landscape during medieval times in India.
Mughal Emperor Babur, in many historical records as well as his own ‘Baburnama’, can be seen reveling in intoxicants. On the other hand, Mughal Emperor Akbar comes across as a ‘moderate’ consumer through many historical records. Akbar’s son, Jehangir, was known to be a hearty consumer of alcohol, while his son, Shah Jahan, was a moderate drinker. However, Shah Jahan’s son, Aurangzeb, was a complete teetotaller – he banned alcohol altogether!
Also Read: Rasi: The Rice-Based Alcohol Beverage Stronger Than Handia
How Alcohol Captivated The Mughal Court
Although the Holy Quran strictly forbade the consumption of alcohol, that didn’t always deter the Mughal emperors from indulging their curiosity for the alluring drinks enjoyed by many of their subjects. The Mughal courts were known for their patronage to art, poetry, music, and many other art forms. These court sessions, where talented artists would present their art, were often seen as social spaces where alcohol and other intoxicants were freely enjoyed. The emperors’ obsession with alcohol went beyond mere consumption – they were also fond of collecting unique wine cups and crockery for their collections.
To satisfy their evolving tastes, the courts invited expert brewers and distillers from across the subcontinent to craft distinctive blends tailored for royal palates. With the help of inquisitive courtiers, these artisans produced wines and spirits within the palace grounds, often using flowers and fruits harvested from imperial orchards. While those drinks would taste nothing like what we drink today, they certainly got Mughal Emperors hooked!
Summing Up
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While the relationship between Mughal Emperors and alcohol isn’t a part of mainstream history, it is an intriguing glimpse into their private lives. Behind the strict, orderly workings of the Mughal courts lay emperors who just wished to revel in their indulgences at the end of the day! Call it curiosity, indulgence, or cultural exchange – one thing is for sure! Not even the mightiest emperors were immune to the temptations of liquor!
