Navratnas of Akbar: Nine Gems List, Work and Role

The Navratnas of Akbar refers to the nine extraordinary talents in the court of Emperor Akbar. Akbar was the third Mughal Emperor and ruled from 1556 to 1605. All these Navratnas were highly skilled in different departments of governance and administration. Below is the list of Navratnas of Akbar with their role name.

List of Navratnas of Akbar

Below is the list of Navaratnas of Akbar with their role.

Sl No.	Navratna Name	Role
1	Birbal	Advisor, poet
2	Todar Mal	Finance minister
3	Raja Man Singh	Military commander
4	Raja Birbal Das	Commander
5	Abdul Rahim Khan	Scholar, poet
6	Faizi	Poet
7	Abul Fazl	Historian, vizier
8	Tansen	Musician
9	Mulla Do-Piyaza	Poet, wit, writer

Akbar’s Nine Gems(Navratnas)

Following is the details about 9 gems of Akbar.

Abul Fazl

Abul Fazl was the historian and intellectual behind the Akbarnama, the official chronicle of Akbar’s reign, and the Ain-i-Akbari, which provides an extensive record of the empire’s administration, culture, and economy.

His writings are crucial sources for understanding the Mughal era, reflecting the philosophical depth and the pluralistic approach of Akbar’s rule.

• refers: Historian and Chronicler
• Tenure: 1557-1602

Birbal

Birbal was known for his sharp wisdom and clever solutions to Akbar’s queries and problems. HIs original name was Mahesh Das. Birbal also played a significant role in administrative decisions. He was a close friend and advisor to Akbar.

• Primary Role: Advisor and Diplomat
• Tenure: 1556-1586

Tansen

Tansen was one of the greatest musicians in Indian history. He contributed to Hindustani classical music and is credited with composing many new ragas. His performances at Akbar’s court were legendary, and his influence on Indian music is unparalleled.

• Primary Role: Musician
• Tenure: 1556-1589

Raja Todar Mal

Raja Todar Mal was the finance minister of Akbar.

• Primary Role: Finance Minister
• Tenure: 1560-1589

As the finance minister, Todar Mal implemented innovative revenue reforms, including the Zabt system. During his tenure, he established revenue system of the Mughal Empire through the introduction of the Ain-e-Dahsala system, which standardized revenue collection and helped stabilize the economy. His contributions laid the foundation for an efficient administrative system.

Raja Man Singh

Raja Man Singh led several successful military campaigns for Akbar. His leadership and diplomatic skills played a huge role in success of Mughal emperor.

• Primary Role: Military Commander
• Tenure: 1562-1614

Faizi

Faizi was a poet and scholar in Akbar’s emperor. He was the elder brother of Abul Fazl and served as the poet laureate of Akbar’s court. His contributions to literature and education greatly influenced the cultural landscape of the Mughal Empire.

• Primary Role: Scholar and Poet
• Tenure: 1575-1595

Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khana

• Primary Role: Poet and Military Commander
• Tenure: 1562-1627

Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khana was famous for his proficiency in poetry. He also held military commands and administrative positions.

Raja Birbal Das

Raja Birbal Das served as an efficient administrator and diplomat. He was responsible for managing various administrative tasks and representing Akbar in diplomatic missions with skill and efficiency.

• Primary Role: Administrator and Diplomat
• Tenure: 1562-1586

Trick to Remember Navratna of Akbar

The following is the 3 tricks that will help you in remembering the name of Nine Gems (Navratna) of Akbar:

1. ABC Order:
   • Arrange the names alphabetically: Abul Fazl, Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khana, Birbal, Faizi, Raja Birbal Das, Raja Man Singh, Raja Todar Mal, Tansen.
   • Then, remember the abbreviation “ABBF RRTT” or “ABB RTT” for the first three or four names respectively.
2. Visualize the Court:
   • Imagine Akbar’s court with nine distinct characters: Abul Fazl, Birbal, Tansen, Raja Todar Mal, Raja Man Singh, Faizi, Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khana, Raja Birbal Das, and Mulla Do-Piyaza. Visualizing each person and their role may help in remembering their names.
3. Create a Sentence:
   • Use the first letter of each Navratna’s name to create a memorable sentence. For example: “All Brave Tigers Roar, Racing Fast Amid Beautiful Roses.”
   • This corresponds to Abul Fazl, Birbal, Tansen, Raja Todar Mal, Raja Man Singh, Faizi, Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khana, Raja Birbal Das.

Must Check

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• List of Mughal Emperors(1527 – 1857)
• List of Famous Mughal Architectures
• Mughal Administration
• Mughal Empire

Navratnas of Akbar – FAQs

Who were 9 navratnas in Akbar’s court?

The Navratnas of Akbar’s court are as follows

• Birbal
• Raja Todar Mal
• Abul Fazl
• Faizi
• Tansen
• Raja Man Singh
• Fakir Aziao-Din
• Mullah Do Piaza
• Hakim Humam

Why are they called Navratnas?

They are called “Navratnas” because they were considered the nine most exceptional and invaluable individuals in Akbar’s court.

Who was Mull do Pyaza?

Mulla Do-Piyaza was one of the Navratnas or “Nine Jewels,” of Akbar’s court. He was a scholar, poet, and courtier known for his wisdom. While historical records about him are limited, he is often celebrated for his literary and intellectual contributions during the Mughal era.

What are the name of Nine Jewels of Navratnas?

The Nine Jewels of Navratnas include Kalidasa, known for poetry, and Dhanvantari, an expert physician, among other luminaries who excelled in literature, science, and the arts during Vikramaditya’s reign.

What is the meaning of Navratnas?

Navratnas means “Nine Jewels” in Hindi, referring to a group of nine exceptionally talented individuals, typically associated with a royal court, who excel in various fields and contribute significantly to its glory and success.