Orangzeb In Pakistani Text Book

 

In Pakistani school textbooks, Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb is often portrayed as an ideal Muslim ruler who prioritized his faith above all else. This depiction contrasts with that of Emperor Akbar, who, despite being acknowledged for his conquests and administrative skills, is criticized for his religious policies aimed at unifying Hindus and Muslims. Historian Mubarak Ali notes that Pakistani textbooks criticize Akbar for endangering the separate identity of Muslims by bringing Hindus and Muslims together as one nation.

This portrayal aligns with the broader narrative in Pakistani education that emphasizes Islamic orthodoxy and the distinct identity of Muslims in the subcontinent. The curriculum, especially since the era of General Zia-ul-Haq, has been revised to reflect Islamic ideology, often at the expense of historical accuracy. This revisionism has led to the promotion of religious intolerance and a skewed representation of historical figures, including Mughal emperors.

Consequently, Aurangzeb is venerated in Pakistani textbooks for his piety and efforts to enforce Islamic laws, while Akbar's attempts at religious integration are viewed negatively, reflecting a preference for a more orthodox Islamic narrative in the country's educational materials.