Why were the towns, built by the Mughals, during the 16th and 17th centuries famous? Explain with examples.
Towns built by the Mughals, during the 16th and 17th centuries were famous for the concentration of population, their large buildings, royal grandeur and wealth. Delhi, Agra and Lahore were important centres of power and imperial administration. Mansabdars and Jagirdars in their respective territories generally maintained houses in these cities. Residence in these centres of power was symbolic of the status and prestige of a noble. The presence of the emperor and nobles in these centres meant that a number of services had to be provided. The treasury was also located in the imperial capital. Thus, the revenues of the kingdom flowed into the capital regularly. The emperor lived in a fortified palace and the town was enclosed by a wall, with entry and exit being regulated by different gates.