Final answer:
The Mughal Empire was more tolerant of minority religions because of its foundational Persian and Asian ideals, its demographic reality of ruling a Muslim-minority state, and the pragmatic approach to governance. This included respect for Hindu customs by the early Mughal rulers, and an established dhimmi system that provided legal standing to non-Muslims, fostering commercial and cultural prosperity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mughal Empire's Religious Tolerance
The Mughal Empire was generally more tolerant of minority religions compared to other Islamic empires due to a variety of factors that were rooted in its founding principles and the practical realities of ruling a diverse population. The Empire was established on the principles of Persian and Asian ideals, and was, from the outset, a Muslim-ruled territory with a Hindu majority. This diverse demographic laid the groundwork for a governance system that respected human rights and religious freedom.
Moreover, the Mughals recognized the importance of integrating the various cultures and religions within their realm to ensure stability and prosperity. In the 16th century, the first Mughal ruler allowed the construction of Hindu temples and even forbade the killing of cows, respecting Hindu sensibilities. This precedent of religious tolerance continued with subsequent rulers who, while maintaining Islam as the state religion, allowed Hindus and other beliefs to flourish.
The protection of minority religions was institutionally supported through the dhimmi system, granting official standing and legal protection, despite some imposed restrictions. These inclusive policies helped in fostering a rich cultural exchange and contributed significantly to the commercial success of regions like Gujarat. The commercial success was in part due to the ability of merchants to trade with people of the same religion or ethnic background across the world. However, during the reign of Aurangzeb, a move towards Islamic revival and less tolerance was observed, straining the relations with non-Muslim communities.
The Mughal era, particularly its classical period, is also notable for the monumental architecture it left behind, such as the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, which were symbols of the empire’s grandeur and its eclectic cultural influences.