In the medieval period, rulers were required to have a group of faithful followers who could support them to govern and administer the state appropriately and to crush any rebellion against the rulers. The contemporary ruling dynasties of the Mughals, the Safavids of Iran, and the Ottomans of Turkey trained their slaves to protect and defend their masters faithfully.

However, Mughal emperor Akbar, instead of the slaves, introduced the Mansabdari or rank holding system in the 11th year of his succession (1564). He appointed people of different religions and creeds without any prejudice. Those who were recruited as mansabdars formed a group of faithful officers to serve their sovereign with dedication and devotion, as the criterion set was merit and loyalty. The Mughal princes, who, so far, had their own separate identity, were also integrated in this system. This changed their status and they became servants to the king. In this capacity, there remained no difference between them and other officers.

These officers did not have their own separate army but kept troops which served the king in case of any crisis. As mansabdars, they had to observe all the rules and regulations which were issued by the king. They had to renew their registration in the army and present their horses for checking and branding. It was their responsibility to keep the soldiers according to their rank. If anybody violated these rules, he was fined.

Akbar granted his mansabdars all the privileges that were accorded to princes. They were rich, resourceful and had high social status in society.

They fully realised that they owned everything because of their sovereign which also made them more loyal to the king. Akbar respected his officers and tolerated their rustic behaviour and awarded them in appreciation of their services and also bestowed on them grand titles and robe of honour to raise their status.

Moreover, the Mansabdari system ended the separation of civil and military services. Now officers performed both duties when the need arose. They, on one hand led expeditions against the enemies, while on the other, served in the administration.

Akbar integrated everyone in this system with the motive to end their separate identity. The system played very positive role in the extension and consolidation of the Mughal empire.

Four important ministersThere were four important ministers in the Mughal state:

1. Diwan — finance minister2. Bakhshi — in charge of military affairs3. Sadr — minister of religious affairs4. Khansaman — minister of royal household