Delhi in the 17th Century

Timeline

1. 1651–1656Red Fort, Shahjahanabad · DelhiFrom 1651 to 1656, Shahjahanabad reached its peak as the Mughal imperial capital. The Jama Masjid was completed in 1656, becoming the subcontinent's largest mosque. Court culture flourished, and the Peacock Throne in the Red Fort symbolized imperial wealth and power. The Chandni Chowk market gathered goods from Persia, Central Asia, Europe, and Southeast Asia; the city was densely populated, with highly developed handicrafts and commerce.
2. 1657–1658Shahjahanabad · DelhiWhen news of Shah Jahan's grave illness broke in 1657, the court fell into turmoil. Crown prince Dara Shikoh was stationed in Delhi, deploying imperial resources to secure his position. Troops moved frequently through the city, disrupting commerce. The city's population witnessed the fracturing of the empire's power core.
3. 1658–1660Red Fort, Shahjahanabad · DelhiAfter defeating Dara Shikoh at Agra in 1658, Aurangzeb entered Delhi and formally ascended the throne in the Red Fort. The court style changed accordingly: less lavish entertainment and painting patronage, stronger religious ceremonial character. The city's commercial functions remained stable, with Chandni Chowk continuing as the core of trade, but the cultural atmosphere grew more conservative.