Cultural and Economic Significance of Neighbourhoods & Muhallāhs in the Mughal Capital City at Agra

A study on Agra Fort reveals the enduring cultural and economic significance of its neighbourhoods (muhallāhs) during the Mughal era, highlighting their role as integral urban units along both banks of the Yamuna River. Research indicates that while early Mughal cities lacked defensive walls, they were marked by strategic gates and ditches, with Agra initially serving as a capital under Babur before expanding under Akbar's reign. The analysis draws from primary and secondary sources to trace the evolution of urban planning, including the introduction of the Chāhār-bāgh garden pattern by Babur. Notably, Shahjahan's shift in capital to Delhi in 1637 A.D. was partly due to Agra's narrow streets, which were deemed unsuitable for imperial processions, as noted by historian Bernier. The study reconstructs historical urban dynamics through textual evidence, offering insights into the transition of power and architectural innovation in Mughal India.

Prof. (Dr.) Salim Javed Akhtar. (2026). CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF NEIGHBOURHOODS & MUHALLĀHS IN THE MUGHAL CAPITAL CITY AT AGRA. Futuristic Trends in Social Sciences (General), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.58532/nbennurcesnp1c1