Mughal Empress Mumtaz Mahal Dies in Childbirth at Age 38 in Burhanpur

Empress Mumtaz Mahal died on June 17, 1631, at the age of 38 due to a postpartum hemorrhage. Her tragic death occurred after she endured 30 hours of arduous labor while giving birth to her fourteenth child, Gauhar Ara, in Burhanpur, located in the Deccan region of India.

The Empress and the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan were originally married in the year 1612. At the time of their wedding, the future emperor was known as Prince Khurram, and his bride was named Arjumand Banu Begum before she took on her imperial title.

Throughout her life, Mumtaz Mahal held significant political influence within the royal court. According to historical records, she acted as a trusted advisor to Shah Jahan, actively issued royal farmans, and wielded considerable authority behind the scenes of the empire.

Her exalted status was further reflected in her substantial financial independence and royal accommodations. Historical texts note that every Mughal emperor's wife received a monthly allowance, but the largest sum was an annual allowance of 10 lakh rupees, which Shah Jahan granted specifically to Mumtaz Mahal alongside highly lucrative landholdings.

Valdemar Hansen observed her unique political method, noting that she remained behind a veil while exercising her influence. If her opinion differed on a matter, she would place her hand on the emperor's back from out of sight, and upon her recommendations, the emperor would pardon enemies or commute death sentences.

Chronicler Abdul Hamid Lahouri captured the profound grief of the bereaved ruler following her passing. He wrote that the warmth of sighs and the moisture of tears tarnished and dimmed the mirror of the emperor's heart, which like the sun had never known the face of darkness.