Temples and mosques as a marker to study the life and times of Aurangzeb

Benares Farman of Aurangzeb

• The "Benares Farman" of Aurangzeb refers to two distinct decrees issued by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, which offer contrasting perspectives on his policies towards Hindu temples and religious practices.

• 1659 Farman

• Ordered local Mughal officials to halt interference in the affairs of Hindu temples in Benares and aimed to protect the rights of Hindu residents and temple priests. It is often cited as evidence of Aurangzeb's initial policy of religious tolerance

• 1669 Farman

• Called for the destruction of temples in Benares, Multan, and other places which is motivated by Aurangzeb's personal disapproval of Hindu religious practices. This farman has fueled criticism of Aurangzeb as intolerant and destructive towards Hinduism.