Part of: Uttar Pradesh Gk set 15

New Capital was built by Akbar at .....

Category: Uttar Pradesh Gk

Hint: Consider the historical significance of Akbar's reign and his architectural contributions.

Correct Answer: A) Sikri

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, was known for his architectural contributions and his establishment of a new capital city. In the late 16th century, Akbar decided to build a new capital city near the village of Sikri, which he named Fatehpur Sikri. This city served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. The choice of Sikri as the site for the new capital was influenced by several factors, including its proximity to Agra, the previous capital, and the presence of a Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chishti, whose blessings Akbar sought for an heir.

The city of Fatehpur Sikri is renowned for its architectural grandeur and the blend of Islamic and Hindu styles. It includes several notable structures such as the Buland Darwaza, the Jama Masjid, and the Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti. The construction of Fatehpur Sikri was a significant undertaking that involved the mobilization of a large workforce and the use of local materials. The city was designed to be a symbol of Akbar's power and his vision for a harmonious empire.

Despite its grandeur, Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned by Akbar in 1585 due to water scarcity and the need to move the capital closer to the Deccan region for military campaigns. The city was left to decay and was eventually abandoned, but it remains an important historical site and a testament to Akbar's architectural vision.

It is important to distinguish Fatehpur Sikri from other historical sites in Uttar Pradesh and other states. For instance, Ganganagar is a city in Rajasthan and not associated with Akbar's new capital. Similarly, Mirpur and Azamgarh are cities in Uttar Pradesh but were not the sites of Akbar's new capital. Understanding the historical context and the specific contributions of Akbar to the Mughal Empire is crucial for correctly identifying the location of his new capital.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This is the correct answer. Akbar built the new capital city of Fatehpur Sikri near the village of Sikri in the late 16th century. The city served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585.
  • Option B: This is incorrect. Ganganagar is a city in Rajasthan and not associated with Akbar's new capital. It is a common misconception to confuse historical sites across different states.
  • Option C: This is incorrect. Mirpur is not associated with Akbar's new capital. It is a common mistake to confuse Mirpur with other historical sites in Uttar Pradesh.
  • Option D: This is incorrect. Azamgarh is a city in Uttar Pradesh but it was not the site of Akbar's new capital. It is a common misconception to confuse Azamgarh with Fatehpur Sikri.

Mnemonic: Sikri for Akbar's new capital

Back to Uttar Pradesh Gk set 15 – Practice all questions