Humayun (Mirza Nasir ud-din Baig Muhammad Khan Humayun),is the second emperor of the Mughal Empire. He is one of the most fascinating personalities of medieval Indian history. Humayn’s life reflects the dramatic journey of rise, fall, struggle, and more. That is from inheriting vast lands but an unstable empire to losing to Sher Shah Suri and ultimately reclaiming it after 15 years of exile; he went through all.

Humayun’s story highlights resilience, diplomacy, and strategic alliances. He also laid the foundation for the powerful Mughal rule under Akbar. For UPSC aspirants, Humayun’s reign is crucial to understanding Mughal administration, military challenges, and the early consolidation of the empire.

Who was Humayun?

Humayun was born as Nasir-ud-Din Muhammad Humayun. He was the second ruler of the Mughal Empire and the eldest son of Babur. He ruled India in two phases: 1530 to 1540 and 1555 to 1556. 

Despite facing multiple setbacks, especially defeat at the hands of Sher Shah Suri. He was yet able to preserve the Mughal legacy through perseverance and diplomacy. His second reign restored Mughal authority and paved the way for Akbar’s strong empire. Humayun is remembered for his cultural interests, Persian influence, and strategic alliances.

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Humayun Biography

Provided here is the Biography of Humayun that reflects on the political, military, and other challenges that he went through. His life journey began from being a young prince in Kabul till being the emperor who reclaimed his lost empire, playing a major role in shaping the Mughal Empire. So check the table below for more detailed information

Early Life of Humayun

Humayun spent his childhood in Kabul, where he learned about Persian culture, stories, and basic military skills. He studied subjects like maths, poetry, and astronomy. As a young boy, he was also made the governor of Badakhshan, which helped him learn how to manage people and places.

Humayun was smart, kind, and loved reading and learning more than fighting. Still, he helped his father Babur in battles and gained some military experience. These early years made him a brave but gentle ruler who believed more in peace, learning, and understanding than in war.

Humayun Family 

Humayun belonged to the Timurid-Mughal lineage and had a close-knit yet politically significant family.

Parents

• Father: Babur – Founder of the Mughal Empire
• Mother: Maham Begum

Wives

Humayun had several wives, the most notable being:

• Hamida Banu Begum – Mother of Akbar
• Bega Begum – Senior wife who later supervised the construction of Humayun’s Tomb

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Battles Fought by Humayun

Humayun’s reign was marked by several crucial battles that shaped the fate of the Mughal Empire. Provided here is the details of the battles fought by Humayun, including the tug of war between him and Sher Shah Suri: 

Humayun Achievements 

Despite the fact that Humayun was often seen as a weak ruler, he made several significant contributions to the  Mughal empire. Mentioned below is the table carrying all the details of the same:

Humayun Death

Humayun died on 27 January 1556 in Delhi under tragic circumstances. While descending the staircase of his library at Sher Mandal, he slipped and suffered a fatal injury. Some accounts say he was carrying books when he fell, highlighting his love for learning. His sudden death left the empire in the hands of his young son Akbar, who later transformed the Mughal Empire into one of the greatest in Indian history.

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Why is Humayun Tomb Famous?

Humayun Tomb of Delhi is well known for being one of the first garden tombs in India. The Humayun tomb is built in the Persian Charbagh style. The construction was commissioned by his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Designed by Persian architects, it replicates a perfect blend of Mughal and Persian architecture. 

The monument also inspired later structures like the Taj Mahal. Its symmetrical design, red sandstone façade, domed roof, and sprawling gardens make it one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major historical landmark.

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