Q. Who was the first Indian ruler to organize Haj pilgrimage at the expense of the state?
The first Indian ruler to organize the Haj pilgrimage at the expense of the state was Akbar. During his reign from 1556 to 1605, Akbar implemented a policy of religious tolerance and inclusivity. As part of this approach, he not only abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims but also facilitated state-sponsored Haj pilgrimages, providing subsidies to pilgrims undertaking the journey to Mecca .
While some sources suggest that Feroz Shah Tughlaq may have organized the Haj pilgrimage using state funds , the majority of historical accounts attribute this initiative to Akbar. His efforts to promote religious harmony and support for Islamic practices are well-documented, making him the most widely recognized ruler to have institutionalized state-sponsored Haj pilgrimages in India.
Correct answer: (C) Akbar
Explanation by: Mr. Dubey
The first Indian ruler to organize the Haj pilgrimage at the expense of the state was Akbar. During his reign from 1556 to 1605, Akbar implemented a policy of religious tolerance and inclusivity. As part of this approach, he not only abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims but also facilitated state-sponsored Haj pilgrimages, providing subsidies to pilgrims undertaking the journey to Mecca .
While some sources suggest that Feroz Shah Tughlaq may have organized the Haj pilgrimage using state funds , the majority of historical accounts attribute this initiative to Akbar. His efforts to promote religious harmony and support for Islamic practices are well-documented, making him the most widely recognized ruler to have institutionalized state-sponsored Haj pilgrimages in India.
Correct answer: (C) Akbar