Q. Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was
(a) the mosque for the use of Royal Family
(b) Akbar’s private prayer chamber
(c) the hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions
(d) the room in which the nobles belonging to different religions gathered to discuss religious affairs
Ans: (c) the hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions
Explanation: The Ibadat Khana, constructed by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1575 AD at Fatehpur Sikri, served as a meeting house and a Hall of Prayer. It provided a platform for spiritual leaders from diverse religious backgrounds to come together and engage in discussions on the teachings of various religious figures. It was a gathering place for theologians, mystics, and religious scholars known for their intellectual prowess and deep understanding of their respective faiths.
Akbar’s vision went beyond religious inclusivity as he sought to bridge the gaps between different religions. He made efforts to reconcile the differences by creating a new faith known as Din-e-Ilahi, which means “Divine Faith.” This faith amalgamated elements from various religious traditions, including Islamic Sufism, Bhakti and devotional movements, Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Jainism, and more.
Akbar’s intention was to foster harmony and understanding among people of different beliefs, promoting tolerance and respect. The Ibadat Khana served as a physical space where these discussions and spiritual dialogues could take place, reflecting Akbar’s broader aspiration for religious unity and the pursuit of divine wisdom.
