Christianity in the Court of Mughal Emperor Akbar (1556-1605AD)

This article attempts to highlight the religious freedom vested to the Christians in the kingdom of Mughal Emperor Akbar (1556-1605AD) and his cordial relationship with the Jesuit Missionaries in the Mughal Court. Three Jesuit Missions were warmly received and welcomed by Akbar during the second half of his reign. These Missions arrived from Goa in 1579, 1591, 1594 and remained in the Mughal court till the death of Akbar in 1605AD. Accounts of these Jesuit Missions, their activities in the Mughal Court and efforts to convert Akbar into Christianity are also the focus of this article. Akbar was the first ruler of India who officially adopted the policy of religious tolerance and principles of Sulah-i-Kul (Universal Peace) for all. Akbar‟s interest in Christianity its religious philosophy and respect for Jesus and Mary is also mentioned in this articl