History: Nine gems (Navratna) in the court of Akbar

Name

Points to remember

Abul Fazl

·       He was the chronicler of Akbar's rule.

·       He authored Akbar's biography - Akbarnama.

·       Abul Fazl documented the history meticulously over a period of seven years.

Faizi

Faizi translated the Panchatantra, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata into Persian.

Todar Mal

·       Todar Mal was the revenue minister of Sher Shah Suri who continued in the position in the court of Akbar.

·       He introduced standard weights and measurements, revenue districts and officers.

Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan

·       Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khanan was the son of Akbar’s general Bairam Khan, the person who looked after him after the death of Humayun.

·       Rahim is known for his couplets or Dohe.

Tansen

Tansen (original name Ramtanu Pandey) was a great musician who is credited with innovation of Raagas such as Mian ki Malhar, Mian ki Todi and Darbari Kanada.

Raja Man Singh

·       Raja Man Singh, a trusted lieutenant of Akbar was the grandson of Akbar’s father-in-law.

·       Raja Man Singh assisted Akbar in many fronts including holding off advancing Hakim (Akbar’s half-brother) in Lahore

Faqir Aziao Din

He was mystic and advisor whose advice Akbar regarded respectfully.

Mullah Do Piaza

He was also an advisor in the court of Akbar known for his intelligence.

Birbal

His original name was Maheshdas. He was a well-known court jester.