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| - Abu Muzaffar Muhiuddin Muhammad Aurangzeb (3 November 1618 - 3 March 1707), also known as Alamgir I (Seizer of the Universe), was the ruler of the Mughal Empire from 1658 until 1707. He is commonly considered the last of the great Mughal emperors. Aurangzeb (from Persian, اورنگزیب meaning "suitable for the throne") was the third son of the previous emperor Shah Jahan. Shah Jahan, himself 3/4ths Hindu was relatively relaxed in his pratice of Islam. He had liberally incouraged his eldest son Dara Shikoh in following in the steps of Ackbar=e=Azam. Dara was an accomplished poet and devoted sufi, he was favored for succession. Aurangzeb had fallen under the influence of the Ulama who believed in a more rigid form of Islam. Beginning in 1657, upon the severe illness of his father, Aurangzeb challenged his brother to the succession. He claimed that Dara Shikoh was a habitual gambler, had drinking problems and was an atheist. Shah Jahan (Seizer of the World) had given his blessings and the royal treasure at Delhi to Dara who hastily used the funds to raise an army which would soon prove to be no match for the well trained professional forces of Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb who had been repeatedly humiliated by his brother's influence with his father at court, had, as well, the support of his youngest brother and his forces. Despite strong support from Shah Jahan, who had recovered enough from his illness to remain a strong factor in the struggle for supremacy, Dara was defeated. He attempted to rally support after this defeat, but was betrayed and turned over to his brother. Dara Shikoh's severed head was presented to Aurangzeb, the story goes that Aurangzeb had the severed head taken to their father to be served to the old man in a dish. He also killed another of his brothers who had supported Dara.
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