The Mughal Empire, known for its rich cultural heritage, reached its greatest extent under Aurangzeb Alamgir, who ruled from 1658 to 1707. However, unlike his predecessors—Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan—who were great patrons of the arts, Aurangzeb was known for his austere lifestyle, orthodox beliefs, and strict adherence to Islamic principles. His reign marked a shift in the cultural landscape of India, especially in terms of music and performing arts. One of the lesser-known yet interesting decisions of Aurangzeb was his ban on the playing of the pungi, a traditional wind instrument.
But why did Aurangzeb ban the playing of the pungi? What were the reasons behind this decision, and how did it impact the evolution of Indian music? Let’s explore the historical, cultural, and religious factors that influenced Aurangzeb’s stance on this musical instrument.
1. Aurangzeb’s Religious Orthodoxy
One of the main reasons for Aurangzeb’s ban on the pungi was his strict religious beliefs. Unlike his predecessors, who embraced a more secular and inclusive approach to governance, Aurangzeb was deeply influenced by orthodox Sunni Islam.
- Aurangzeb believed that music and certain forms of art were distracting and un-Islamic, as they could divert people from religious duties.
- He considered instrumental music, especially for entertainment, as frivolous and against Islamic teachings.
- The pungi, often associated with folk performances and entertainment in royal courts, did not align with Aurangzeb’s austere vision of the Mughal court.
Thus, his religious orthodoxy played a significant role in the prohibition of musical instruments like the pungi, which he viewed as inappropriate for a morally upright society.
2. Association of the Pungi with Low-Status Performances
The pungi was traditionally played by snake charmers, street performers, and folk musicians. In the Mughal court, music held a prestigious position, with classical forms like dhrupad and khayal being highly respected. However, the pungi was considered a folk instrument, lacking the refinement and sophistication of classical music.
- Aurangzeb believed that court music should reflect the grandeur and dignity of the empire.
- The shrill and nasal sound of the pungi was considered unpleasant and unworthy of being played in royal settings.
- Since the pungi was linked to street entertainment, it was perceived as lowly and unfit for the Mughal aristocracy.
This social stigma associated with the pungi contributed to its ban, as Aurangzeb sought to maintain the decorum of his court by removing instruments considered inferior or vulgar.
3. Aurangzeb’s Personal Disinterest in Music
Unlike his predecessors, Aurangzeb had little personal interest in music. While Akbar celebrated musicians like Tansen, Aurangzeb disapproved of musical performances. There are historical accounts suggesting that Aurangzeb himself was trained in music during his youth but later renounced it due to his religious beliefs.
- Aurangzeb reportedly said, “Music is the chain of the devil,” reflecting his disdain for musical indulgence.
- He disbanded the royal band and dismissed court musicians, signaling a cultural shift in the Mughal court.
- Instruments like the pungi, which were primarily used for entertainment, had no place in Aurangzeb’s strictly governed regime.
Thus, Aurangzeb’s personal disapproval of music and entertainment played a crucial role in the ban on the pungi.
4. Symbolic Assertion of Power and Authority
Aurangzeb’s ban on the pungi can also be seen as part of his broader strategy to assert power and authority over the cultural life of the empire.
- By regulating art and music, Aurangzeb sought to establish control over court culture and public life, aligning them with his ideological vision.
- The ban sent a clear message that the emperor’s word was final, even in matters of cultural expression.
- By discouraging entertainment, Aurangzeb emphasized the primacy of religion, discipline, and austerity in his empire.
This authoritarian approach ensured that all aspects of life, including music, reflected the emperor’s values and reinforced his dominance.
5. The Evolution of the Pungi into the Shehnai
Interestingly, the ban on the pungi led to a significant musical innovation. The court musicians, who lost their patronage, began experimenting with the pungi’s design and sound.
- By modifying the shape and improving the tonal quality, they developed the shehnai, a refined version of the pungi.
- The shehnai produced a melodious sound and gained acceptance in royal courts and auspicious ceremonies like weddings and temple rituals.
- Thus, while Aurangzeb’s ban intended to suppress the pungi, it inadvertently paved the way for the creation of the shehnai, a celebrated instrument in Indian classical music today.
This transformation highlights how cultural restrictions can sometimes spark creativity, leading to new artistic expressions.
Conclusion
Aurangzeb banned the playing of the pungi due to a combination of religious, cultural, and personal reasons. His strict adherence to Islamic orthodoxy, disinterest in music, and the association of the pungi with low-status performances all contributed to this decision. Additionally, the ban reflected Aurangzeb’s desire to control court culture and assert his authority over all aspects of imperial life.
However, the story of the pungi does not end with its ban. The evolution of the shehnai, a more refined and melodious version of the instrument, stands as a testament to the resilience of Indian musical traditions. While Aurangzeb’s reign may have seen the suppression of certain art forms, it also inadvertently encouraged innovation, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of Indian music.
Rahul Kumar is a passionate educator, writer, and subject matter expert in the field of education and professional development. As an author on CoursesXpert, Rahul Kumar’s articles cover a wide range of topics, from various courses, educational and career guidance.
