RAS question
The 'Ibadat Khana' was established by Akbar at which place for religious discussions?
Correct answer: (D) Fatehpur Sikri.
Akbar established the Ibadat Khana for religious and intellectual discussions at Fatehpur Sikri.
Explanation
Akbar established the Ibadat Khana, or House of Worship, at Fatehpur Sikri in 1575. SCERT Kerala records that Akbar constructed the Ibadat Khana at his capital, Fatehpur Sikri, for intellectual discourses. This matters because the building was not just a courtly hall; it was tied to Akbar's wider policy of religious discussion. It was first open only to Muslims and, from 1578, to scholars of all religions. These discussions influenced Akbar's formulation of Din-i-Ilahi in 1582, with Birbal recorded as the only Hindu who accepted it.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Lahore was another Mughal capital associated with Akbar, but the Ibadat Khana was established at Fatehpur Sikri.
- (B) Agra Fort was an important Mughal centre, but Akbar established the Ibadat Khana at his capital, Fatehpur Sikri.
- (C) Delhi is not the relevant site here; Akbar's religious-discussion hall was at Fatehpur Sikri.
Concept
This tests Mughal religious policy under Akbar, especially the link between court debate, Sulh-i-Kul, and Din-i-Ilahi. RAS often asks such location-based facts because they connect political capitals with broader administrative and cultural themes.