Babur loved his family members and took great care of their wellbeing. After the conquest of India, he sent gifts and cash to every member of his family. When the women of his family arrived from Kabul, he provided them with appropriate residences and allowances. He made a routine to visit his family members regularly and spend time with them. He loved his children and made efforts for their good education.

As a responsible father, Babur pointed out language mistakes in a letter written by his son Humayun and severely reprimanded him on his carelessness and laziness. When Humayun became seriously ill, Babur got worried about his health. Gulbadan Begam, Babur’s daughter, writes in her book Ahwal-e-Humayun Badshah that during his son’s illness, Babur prayed to God to take his life for the recovery of his son.

According to Gulbadan, after Babur prayed to God, Humayun recovered and Babur became ill which subsequently led to his death. Before his death, he called Humayun and advised him to treat his brothers, family members, nobles and other people affectionately.

At the time of death, Babur was 48 years old. He spent most of his life struggling to secure power. He failed to acquire his ancestral kingdom in Central Asia but succeeded to establish his dynasty in India. He was friendly towards the nobles and was a good ruler and kind human being. He was also an excellent poet and writer.

Babur’s testament

After the conquest of India, Babur fully realised that in order to rule India — a land of Hindu majority — rulers must adopt the policy of tolerance and respect towards all religions. He left his testament to Humayun, a remarkable historical document which proves Babur’s sagacity and wisdom as a ruler.

The testament provided guidance to the Mughal rulers on how to rule India. Later on the Mughal emperors followed it earnestly. They Indianised themselves by adopting Indian customs and traditions and were loved by both Hindus and Muslims. While handing over his testament to Humayun, Babur made him realise the importance of being the ruler of India where followers of different religions lived. He advised him to fulfil this responsibility with great care and sensitivity. He recommended that Humayun focus on the following matters:

1. Respect all religions without any prejudice and never hurt anyone’s sentiments related to his/her religion, tradition and culture.

2. In order to respect Hindus, never slaughter a cow as it is considered a sacred animal by Hindus. This practice will create goodwill among people.

3. Never demolish any worship house belonging to any religion. Follow a policy of justice and tolerance. Treat your people with kindness and without discrimination.

4. Nobody should be forced to convert to Islam. Preaching should be by peaceful means.

5. Avoid Shia and Sunni conflicts. It would make Islam weak and vulnerable.

6. Understand the different qualities that your people belonging to different religions possess and give importance to all communities.