The story of Farrukhsiyar is one of dramatic elevation, political dependence, and a tragic fall. Unlike many Mughal princes who carved their path to power through sheer personal strength, Farrukhsiyar ascended the throne almost entirely because of the Sayyid Brothers, the most influential Hindustani nobles of their time. His reign, filled with internal conflict, factional dominance, and shifting alliances, stands as one of the most defining chapters of Mughal decline. It reveals how emperors became figureheads while ambitious nobles and regional powers took control of imperial politics.
A Throne Won Through the Sayyid Brothers
Farrukhsiyar’s rise was impossible without the decisive military and political backing of the Sayyid Brothers—Abdullah Khan and Hussain Ali Khan. Known later as the “Kingmakers,” the brothers dethroned Jahandar Shah and placed Farrukhsiyar on the throne with the expectation that he would remain obedient to their will. In return for their support, Abdullah Khan became the Wazir, while Hussain Ali Khan was appointed Mir Bakshi, giving them complete control over administration, finance, and the imperial army.
This arrangement established a new power structure within the Mughal Empire. The emperor, traditionally the supreme authority, became dependent on nobles whose influence overshadowed the throne. Farrukhsiyar accepted this initially, but resentment soon brewed as he struggled to free himself from their grip.
Implementation of Jahandar Shah’s Policies
Although Farrukhsiyar had replaced Jahandar Shah, much of the administrative direction created during Jahandar’s time continued. The abolition of jizya, elements of revenue reforms, and broader conciliatory policies were carried forward, not because Farrukhsiyar championed them, but because the Sayyid Brothers dictated them.
Their governance model emphasized religious tolerance, especially towards Hindus. They recruited more Hindus into the Mughal administrative machinery, attempted to reduce sectarian tensions, and adopted a relatively moderate approach compared to previous emperors. Their leadership style often clashed with the emperor’s own inclination for orthodoxy and stricter control.
Firm Stance Against Banda Singh Bahadur
Despite their tolerant domestic attitude, the Sayyid Brothers did not adopt a soft approach toward rebels. Under Farrukhsiyar, the Mughals intensified their campaign against Banda Singh Bahadur, the Sikhs’ military leader who had risen against Mughal rule after Guru Gobind Singh’s martyrdom. The conflict was marked by brutality on both sides and culminated in Banda Singh Bahadur’s capture and execution. This chapter remains one of the darker confrontations in Mughal-Sikh relations.
The 1717 Royal Farman to the East India Company
One of the most consequential events of Farrukhsiyar’s reign was the issuance of the Royal Farman of 1717 to the British East India Company. Often described as the “Magna Carta” of the Company’s commercial privileges, the farman granted them:
- Freedom to trade in Bengal with minimal customs
- Permission to rent land in Bengal
- The right to use passes (dastaks), which later caused major conflict in Bengal
Although issued under Farrukhsiyar’s name, the decision reflected the administrative mechanisms dominated by the Sayyid Brothers. The farman inadvertently strengthened the British foothold in India, setting the stage for future challenges to Mughal sovereignty.
The Emperor’s Growing Resentment and Political Conspiracy
As time passed, Farrukhsiyar increasingly resented being treated as a puppet. He attempted to weaken the Sayyid Brothers’ influence by creating rival factions within the court, plotting their removal, and seeking support from traditional Turani and Irani nobles. However, every attempt failed. The Sayyid Brothers remained politically invincible and well-connected across northern India.
The emperor’s repeated conspiracies hardened their stance. Farrukhsiyar, instead of regaining power, alienated the very men who had placed him on the throne.
Alliance with Balaji Vishwanath and the Final Downfall
The final blow came through a powerful alliance. The Sayyid Brothers sought support from the Marathas, especially Balaji Vishwanath, the Peshwa. In exchange for military help, the Marathas negotiated substantial concessions, strengthening their position in the Deccan.
With Maratha backing, the Sayyid Brothers marched against Farrukhsiyar in Delhi. The emperor was defeated, captured, and eventually assassinated—a tragic end reflecting the complete erosion of imperial dignity. His death confirmed what Mughal politics had become: emperors could be made and unmade by stronger forces around them.
Conclusion
Farrukhsiyar’s reign symbolizes the transformation of Mughal politics from centralized imperial authority to factional domination. His dependency on the Sayyid Brothers, his inability to consolidate independent power, and his growing confrontations with the nobles led to a dramatic collapse. The issuance of the 1717 Farman, the conflict with Banda Singh Bahadur, and the alliance with the Marathas all contributed to the weakening of Mughal control over its territories. Farrukhsiyar rose with the help of kingmakers—and ultimately fell because he challenged them. His death marks one of the most decisive moments in the decline of the Mughal Empire.
FAQ
When did Farrukhsiyar rule the Mughal Empire?
He ruled from 1713 to 1719, a turbulent period dominated by the Sayyid Brothers.
Who were the Sayyid Brothers?
Abdullah Khan and Hussain Ali Khan, powerful Hindustani nobles who acted as kingmakers and controlled Mughal administration.
What was the 1717 Royal Farman granted to the East India Company?
It was a decree granting major trade privileges to the East India Company, reducing customs duties and allowing significant commercial freedom in Bengal.
How did the Sayyid Brothers treat Hindus during Farrukhsiyar’s reign?
They adopted a tolerant policy, incorporated more Hindus into administration, and followed a conciliatory approach compared to orthodox rulers.
How did Farrukhsiyar die?
He was dethroned and assassinated by the Sayyid Brothers with the military support of Balaji Vishwanath, the Peshwa of the Marathas.
