Memoirs of the Emperor Jahangueir

The book documents the autobiographical Memoirs of Emperor Jahangir, translated by Major David Price in 1785-86 from the original Persian manuscript. It’s a widely held belief that autobiographies often present a fictionalized account of a person’s life, as individuals tend to reveal only select aspects to the public. Genuine and truthful autobiographies are rare, with examples like Mahatma Gandhi and Bertrand Russell being exceptions. However, Emperor Jahangir’s Memoirs hold historical significance, shedding light on the events and figures of his era. As a powerful and undisputed ruler of Hindustan at the time, he provided a relatively authentic account of his life and the period’s events. His candid admission of his excessive wine consumption and efforts to curb it, as well as his commitment to delivering impartial justice, are noteworthy. Jahangir even issued twelve ordinances, including one on the “China of Justice,” emphasizing the importance of fair conduct among officials in their respective roles, symbolized by its attachment to the battlements of the Agra Castle’s royal tower.