By Indo-Asian News Service
Agra: Lovers of history and heritage in this city of Taj Mahal Monday celebrated Mughal emperor Akbar’s birth anniversay, recalling his humane values that are more relevant in the present context of fundamentalist terror and growing intolerance.
Akbar’s experiments in governance, his ideas relating to coexistence and mutual tolerance of different religious communities, and recognition of talents as nine jewels have to be seen as part of a rich legacy he left behind, they said.
Agra’s identity comes more from Akbar than others like Shah Jahan, speakers at an event here said. They noted that Akbar, born on Oct 15, 1542 was one of the most popular rulers of his time. Shah Jahan, undoubtedly was one of the great builders, but he and others did not make much intellectual contribution, the speakers said.
Historian R. Nath described Akbar, the 16th century emperor, as a visionary ruler.
Welcoming the guests, Surendra Sharma, president of the Braj Mandal Heritage Conservation Society, lamented the fact that this city of the Mughals had been plundered and pillaged by politicians and upstarts.
The experts called for urgent conservation efforts for Akbar’s tomb in Sikandra and the Agra Fort.