Princess Jahanara Begum: A Royal Visionary
Jahanara Begum was more than just the eldest daughter of the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. She was a political prodigy and a generous philanthropist. In a time when women in politics was rare, Jahanara wielded significant influence as the chief advisor to her father. Her diplomatic skills often helped in maintaining peace within the royal court. Her flair for architecture is evident from the design of Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's oldest and busiest markets, which she planned herself. Its beauty and grandeur reflect her vision. Jahanara also had a knack for commerce. She owned ships that sailed to various parts of the world, trading silk, spices, gold, and other commodities. The revenue generated was immense, which she generously spent on public welfare. After her father's death, she chose a life of simplicity and dedicated herself to public service and education. She built hospitals, public baths, and also sponsored scholars. Jahanara's life was a blend of royalty, wisdom, and resilience. Despite her royal status, her humility and dedication towards public service set her apart.
Question 1
What role did Jahanara Begum play in her father's political affairs?
She was his chief advisor
She was his personal secretary
She was his treasurer
She was his military commander
She was his heir
Question 2
What is the significance of Chandni Chowk in the context of Jahanara Begum's life?
It is the palace where she lived
It is a market that she used to frequent
It is a market that she planned herself
It is the place where she was born
It is the place where she built her first hospital
Question 3
After her father's death, what did Jahanara Begum dedicate herself to?
Politics
Business
Architecture
Public service and education
Travelling
Question 4
What commodity is not mentioned in the passage as traded by Jahanara Begum's ships?
Silk
Spices
Gold
Diamonds
Other commodities
Question 5
What was Jahanara Begum's life a blend of?
Royalty, wisdom, and resilience
Wealth, power, and influence
Poverty, struggle, and triumph
Loneliness, hardship, and success
Adventure, discovery, and growth
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