Podcast Summary: Empire - Episode 206. Babur: Guns, Gardens & Diamonds (Ep 3)
Release Date: November 26, 2024
Hosts: William Dalrymple and Anita Anand
Introduction
In Episode 206 of Empire, titled "Babur: Guns, Gardens & Diamonds," hosts William Dalrymple and Anita Anand delve into the intricate life and campaigns of Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire. This episode explores Babur's strategic maneuvers, his personal struggles, and the pivotal battles that shaped his legacy in India.
Babur's March into India
[00:50 - 02:43]
William Dalrymple sets the stage by recounting Babur's departure from Kabul in autumn 1525 and his subsequent march into northern India. Babur's ambition was clear: to capture the wealth of the Delhi Sultanate, which had long been a target following his ancestor Timur's earlier sacking of Delhi. However, upon arriving in Delhi, Babur found the city significantly reduced due to Lodi mismanagement, offering him a less opulent target than expected.
Notable Quote:
"Hindustan is a place of little charm... basically, he thinks it's a disaster."
— William Dalrymple [05:03]
The Diamond Incident in Agra
[02:43 - 05:20]
Anita Anand narrates an intriguing episode where Babur encounters Raja Bikramjeet of Gwalior in Agra. Bikramjeet offers Babur's son, Humayun, a massive diamond, likely the famed Koh-i-Noor, which Babur graciously returns. This incident underscores Babur's complex relationship with wealth and power, as well as his strategic acumen in dealing with local rulers.
Notable Quote:
"No private individual has ever seen such a diamond or heard of it... it is a whopper."
— Anita Anand [05:02]
Babur's Misconceptions of Hindustan
[05:03 - 07:16]
Babur's negative assessment of Hindustan contrasts sharply with reality. He criticizes the region's climate, aesthetics, and resources, expressing disdain for its people and agricultural products. However, both Dalrymple and Anand highlight the richness and cultural vibrancy of India, pointing out Babur's misplaced grievances, primarily driven by the oppressive heat of May.
Notable Quote:
"No one knows for sure... it's that kind of size. Eight mysticals is the same size as the Koh-i-Noor."
— William Dalrymple [05:47]
Building Agra and the First Mughal Garden
[07:16 - 09:30]
Upon reaching Agra, Babur is displeased by the lack of beautiful gardens, a misconception given India's long-standing garden traditions. Determined to change this, he constructs the first Mughal garden at Arambag—today known as Rambug—introducing Persian-style cascaded fountains and hammams. This garden becomes a precursor to the illustrious Mughal gardens that would later adorn India, including the Taj Mahal's surrounding gardens.
Notable Quote:
"So he builds his own little oasis... starting the great Mughal garden tradition."
— Anita Anand [08:24]
Advancements in Military Technology
[09:30 - 12:50]
The conversation shifts to Babur's military preparations. While Babur enjoys cultivating gardens, his lieutenant, Ustad Ali, works diligently to enhance the Mughal artillery. Ustad Ali's efforts lead to the creation of more effective cannons and muskets, giving the Mughals a significant technological edge over their adversaries, particularly the Rajputs.
Notable Quote:
"He creates what Baba writes is a cannon. I mean, it's a mortar... a real breakthrough."
— William Dalrymple [11:12]
The Rajputs and the Battle of Kanua
[12:50 - 16:04]
Anita Anand introduces Rana Sanga, the formidable Rajput leader from Rajasthan, who unites various Rajput clans against Babur's advancing forces. The impending Battle of Kanua in 1527 is poised to be a decisive confrontation. Babur, recognizing the severity of this threat, undergoes a personal transformation by abjuring alcohol and adopting religious rhetoric to rally his troops, despite his previously non-religious demeanor.
Notable Quote:
"Having abjured alcohol... he was still miserable... he threw him a dry party."
— William Dalrymple [25:21]
The Battle of Kanua
[17:31 - 24:59]
The hosts describe the intense Battle of Kanua, where Babur employs his enhanced artillery and innovative tactics to overcome Rana Sanga's larger Rajput army. Despite Rana Sanga's valor, exemplified by his personal bravery and leadership, Babur's superior firepower and strategic maneuvers lead to a Mughal victory. The battle is marked by Rana Sanga's death from an arrow wound, a pivotal moment reminiscent of historical clashes like Harold Godwinson's at Hastings.
Notable Quote:
"He's on a bit of a journey and he's becoming more and more religious."
— William Dalrymple [15:20]
Consolidation and Alliances
[28:25 - 30:33]
Post-battle, Babur focuses on consolidating his power rather than further conquest. He extends olive branches to the Rajputs, integrating them into his administration and military. This strategic alliance ensures Mughal stability and lays the groundwork for future expansions under his descendants. Babur's approach contrasts sharply with his initial conquests, showcasing his political savvy in fostering loyalty among conquered tribes.
Notable Quote:
"It is the alliance between the different Rajput clans and the Mughals that gives this kingdom its power."
— Anita Anand [30:33]
Babur's Personal Struggles
[30:33 - 36:55]
Despite his military successes, Babur grapples with personal turmoil. His vow to abstain from alcohol, intended to rally his troops, leaves him emotionally and physically debilitated. He suffers from various ailments exacerbated by the Indian climate and his inability to partake in his former pleasures. William and Anita reflect on Babur's internal conflicts, highlighting his poignant letters expressing grief over his sacrifices.
Notable Quote:
"Frozen in grief, I am lost, while with wine I am cheerful and smiling."
— William Dalrymple [25:25]
Legacy and Final Days
[36:55 - 40:20]
As Babur's health declines, he makes the ultimate sacrifice by praying to exchange his life for Humayun's, leading to his untimely death in 1530 at age 46. His legacy, however, endures through the Mughal Empire he established and his contributions to cultural and architectural heritage in India. The hosts discuss the restoration of Babur's grave in Kabul and his varied remembrance across different regions, contrasting his brutal reputation in India with his veneration in Uzbekistan and Kabul.
Notable Quote:
"Ironically, for a man who prided himself on his valor in the field, his greatest moment of heroism was not displayed on the battlefield, but at home."
— Anita Anand [38:23]
Conclusion
Episode 206 provides a comprehensive look into Babur's complex character—balancing military prowess with personal vulnerabilities. Dalrymple and Anand shed light on his strategic alliances, cultural contributions, and the personal sacrifices that defined his rule. Babur's story is a testament to the multifaceted nature of empire-building, where power, culture, and personal struggle intertwine to shape history.
Upcoming Episode Teaser:
The hosts hint at the next episode focusing on Humayun, Babur's son, and the challenges he faces in stepping into his father's formidable legacy.
Notable Quotes Summary:
- "Hindustan is a place of little charm... basically, he thinks it's a disaster." — William Dalrymple [05:03]
- "No private individual has ever seen such a diamond or heard of it... it is a whopper." — Anita Anand [05:02]
- "So he builds his own little oasis... starting the great Mughal garden tradition." — Anita Anand [08:24]
- "He creates what Baba writes is a cannon. I mean, it's a mortar... a real breakthrough." — William Dalrymple [11:12]
- "Having abjured alcohol... he was still miserable... he threw him a dry party." — William Dalrymple [25:21]
- "It is the alliance between the different Rajput clans and the Mughals that gives this kingdom its power." — Anita Anand [30:33]
- "Frozen in grief, I am lost, while with wine I am cheerful and smiling." — William Dalrymple [25:25]
- "Ironically, for a man who prided himself on his valor in the field, his greatest moment of heroism was not displayed on the battlefield, but at home." — Anita Anand [38:23]
This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions of Episode 206, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Babur's rise, challenges, and enduring legacy.