Aurangzeb: A Villain or a Misinterpreted Ashoka?

History often serves as a mirror, reflecting the complexities of human actions and societal judgments. Emperors Ashoka and Aurangzeb, two towering figures in Indian history, present a fascinating study of contrasts and similarities. Both ascended their thrones through bloodshed, embraced religious fervor, and sought to unify their vast empires under a singular cultural ethos. Yet, their legacies diverge sharply: Ashoka is seen as a symbol of peace, while Aurangzeb is cast's as a tyrant. This article explores the intertwined narratives of these emperors, questioning whether Aurangzeb is a villain or a misinterpreted counterpart of Ashoka.

Both Ashoka and Aurangzeb secured their positions through decisive and ruthless actions. Ashoka, in his quest for the Mauryan throne, reportedly eliminated rivals, including his brothers. Similarly, Aurangzeb's rise involved the defeat and execution of his brothers, most notably Dara Shikoh, to claim the Mughal throne.

After the catastrophic Kalinga War, Ashoka experienced a profound transformation, adopting Buddhism and promoting non-violence and dharma (moral law) across his realm. His reign saw the propagation of Buddhist principles, aiming for a moral and ethical society. In contrast, Aurangzeb was a devout Sunni Muslim who sought to enforce Islamic laws, reinstating the jizya tax on non-Muslims and implementing Sharia-based ordinances. Both rulers, despite their differing faiths, endeavored to mold their empires according to their religious convictions.

Ashoka commissioned the erection of edicts inscribed on pillars and rocks, disseminating his Buddhist-inspired policies and moral guidelines. Aurangzeb, on the other hand, was known for his austere lifestyle and patronage of Islamic arts, though he also imposed restrictions on certain cultural practices he deemed un-Islamic. Both emperors exercised censorship and control over cultural expressions to align with their religious and moral outlooks.

The contrasting legacies of Ashoka and Aurangzeb can be attributed to the sources that chronicled their reigns. Ashoka's transformation and patronage of Buddhism were documented in Buddhist texts, portraying him as a compassionate ruler. Aurangzeb's reign, however, was recorded by various historians, including those who were critical of his policies, leading to a portrayal of him as a despotic ruler. These narratives have been further shaped by colonial and post-colonial historiography, often casting Aurangzeb in a negative light.

Contemporary media continues to influence public perceptions of these historical figures. The film "Chhaava," for instance, depicts Aurangzeb as the antagonist in the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Akshaye Khanna's portrayal of Aurangzeb has sparked intense reactions, including incidents where audience members vandalized cinema property in protest of his depiction. Such portrayals reinforce the villainous image of Aurangzeb, while similar dramatizations of Ashoka often highlight his post-Kalinga benevolence.

"Chhaava," a recent cinematic portrayal, has reignited debates about Aurangzeb's legacy. The film presents him as a formidable adversary to the Maratha hero, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. While artistic interpretations are essential for storytelling, they can also perpetuate historical biases. The intense public reactions to the film underscore the deep-seated perceptions of Aurangzeb as a tyrant, influenced by both historical narratives and modern portrayals.

The stories of Ashoka and Aurangzeb illustrate how history is often a tapestry woven with threads of fact, interpretation, and bias. Both emperors exhibited complex personas, blending ruthlessness with religious devotion. Yet, their legacies have been shaped differently due to historical narratives, cultural biases, and modern portrayals. Recognizing these influences allows for a more nuanced understanding of the past, moving beyond the simplistic labels of hero and villain.