India: Lal Kunwar, favourite of the 8th Mughal Emperor Jahandar Shah (died 1125 AH/AD 1713), 18th century Mughal miniature

Originally a dancing girl, Lal Kunwar became Jahandar's concubine and later the queen consort. Contemporary historians noted Jahandar Shah's decadent lifestyle and his devotion to Lal Kunwar, who is named in the inscription at the top of the page. Reportedly, Lal Kunwar had much influence at Jahandar's court.

Jahandar Shah was defeated in the battle at Agra on 10 January 1713 by Farrukhsiyar, his nephew and the second son of Azim-us-Shan, with the support of the Syed Brothers. He fled to Delhi, from where he was captured and handed over to the new Emperor, who confined him along with Lal Kunwar. He lived in confinement for a month, until 11 February 1713, when professional stranglers were sent to murder him.

When the stranglers were admitted into the prison, Lal Kunwar shrieked, clasped hold of her lover and refused to let go. Violently forcing the two apart, they laid hands on Jahandar Shah and finished him off. His head was severed and presented to Farrukhsiyar, while his body was taken to Humayun's Tomb and interred there. Lal Kunwar was sent to Suragpura (Hamlet of Happy Wives) where the widows of previous emperors lived in retirement.

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Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

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Pictures From History

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WOMEN IN HISTORY