Brotherly Ambition and Imperial Generosity After Babar's Reign

The passing of a great ruler often ushers in a period of uncertainty, especially when multiple heirs stand ready to claim their inheritance. Following the death of Emperor Babar, the founder of the Mughal Empire in India, his eldest son Humayun ascended the throne. But the vast territories conquered by Babar were also eyed by his brothers, setting the stage for a crucial test of leadership, loyalty, and family bonds.

The Ambitious Arrival in the Panjab

One of Babar's sons, Mirza Kamran, who had been entrusted with the governorship of Kabul and Qandahar, heard the news of his father's demise. Driven by ambition, he set his sights on expanding his domain into India. Without seeking permission from the new Emperor Humayun, Kamran marched towards the Panjab.

At this time, Lahore was under the charge of Mir Yunus 'Ali, an officer appointed by Babar. Kamran, employing a cunning strategy, feigned a quarrel with one of his own officers, Qaraca Beg. This officer then "fled" to Lahore and sought refuge with Mir Yunus 'Ali, who welcomed him warmly, unaware of the deception. Qaraca Beg, seizing an opportunity during a gathering when many of Yunus 'Ali's soldiers were absent, captured the governor and took control of the fort gates. He immediately sent word to Kamran, who swiftly arrived and took possession of Lahore.

Mir Yunus 'Ali, though released, refused to serve Kamran and instead travelled to Agra to inform Emperor Humayun of the events.

Humayun's Unexpected Response

Imagine Humayun's position. His brother had just seized a significant province without his consent, using deceit. A lesser ruler might have immediately marched to reclaim the territory by force. But Humayun's response, as recorded in the Akbarnama, reveals a different approach – one deeply influenced by his father Babar's dying wish.

Babar, on his deathbed, had famously advised Humayun: "Do naught against your brothers even though they may deserve it." Humayun took this counsel to heart.

Instead of confrontation, Humayun chose generosity. Partly, the text suggests, this was due to his inherent liberal nature, but significantly, it was also a conscious effort to honour his father's testament. He not only forgave Kamran's transgression but issued a decree confirming him in the charge of Kabul, Qandahar, and the Panjab. Later, he even added Hissar Firuza to Kamran's territories as a reward for a seemingly loyal ode sent by the Mirza.

Loyalty, Family, and Sovereignty

This episode highlights the complex interplay of loyalty and ambition within the early Mughal family. While Kamran prioritized his own power, Humayun prioritized adherence to his father's will and the preservation of family unity, even at a significant political cost. The concept of Khilafat (Imperial Vicegerency), representing the Emperor's role as God's shadow on Earth, demanded a certain magnanimity, and Humayun, in this instance, displayed it in abundance.

Kamran's subsequent actions, despite his initial poetic expressions of loyalty, would later reveal the true nature of his ambition, leading to further conflict. But in this moment, Humayun's decision set a tone of remarkable, perhaps even excessive, clemency towards his siblings.

A Lesson in Leadership and Legacy

Humayun's generosity towards Kamran, though seemingly counter-intuitive from a purely strategic standpoint, speaks volumes about his character and his deep respect for his father's legacy. It serves as a historical example of how personal values and family dynamics can intersect with imperial politics, shaping the course of an empire. While the immediate outcome might have complicated Humayun's reign, his adherence to Babar's dying wish remains a poignant moment in Mughal history, illustrating the enduring, albeit sometimes strained, bonds of brotherhood.