Q. With reference to the regency of Bairam Khan (1556–1560 CE) and the subsequent court turmoil, consider the following statements:
1.Bairam Khan, who held the title Khan Baba, was a loyal Shi’a Muslim whose policies of promoting his co-religionists led to alienation within the predominantly Sunni Turani nobility.
2.The period immediately following Bairam Khan’s removal is historically referred to as the ‘Petticoat Government’ due to the undue political influence of Maham Anga and Adham Khan.
3.Akbar demonstrated magnanimity by allowing Bairam Khan to proceed on a pilgrimage to Mecca, where the former regent passed away peacefully.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. Bairam Khan was a Shi’a, and his favor shown toward Shi’a and Irani nobles caused resentment among the powerful Sunni Turani (Central Asian) faction, contributing to his downfall.
- Statement 2: Correct. The years 1560-1562 CE saw the rise of Maham Anga (Akbar’s wet nurse) and her son Adham Khan, who wielded unofficial power, giving the period the historical name ‘Pardah’ or ‘Petticoat’ Government (Petticoat Rule).
- Statement 3: Incorrect. Bairam Khan was assassinated in Patan, Gujarat, by a group of Afghans (associated with an old enemy, Hemu) while he was preparing for his pilgrimage to Mecca, not peacefully passing away.
