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Which major cities became centers of commerce and crafts under Mughal rule?
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Mughal dynasty
Emperors (from left, seated) Jahangir, Akbar, and Shah Jahan are depicted with their ministers (foreground) and Prince Dara Shikoh in a watercolor from India, c. 1630ā40.
Under the Mughal dynasty, political stability and the expansion of trade encouraged the growth of several major cities that became prominent centers of commerce and crafts.1
Key urban centers included:
- Lahore, Delhi, Agra, and Ahmedabad: These were among the leading cities of the world during the 17th century, serving as vital hubs for trade and craft production.1
- Surat: A central port city in Gujarat that played a critical role in long-distance maritime exchange.21
- Thatta and Hugli: Recognized as significant centers for commercial activity by the mid-17th century.1
- Bengalās Ports: Cities such as Hooghly, Pipli, Balasore, and Chittagong were essential for supplying textiles and food items to both coastal and overseas markets.2
- Specialized Craft Centers: In addition to major capitals, locations like Kapadvanj in Gujarat were noted for Mughal glass production, while Lahore, Agra, and Fatehpur Sikri were renowned for the creation of Mughal carpets.34
These cities were supported by a network of grain markets (mandÄ«s), bazaars, and smaller fortified towns (qaį¹£bahs) that facilitated the movement of goods across the empire.1