What are the reasons for the downfall of the Mughal empire?

Aurangazeb was the last notable emperor of the Mughal dynasty. The Mughal empire gradually declined after his rule. The following were the reasons for the downfall of the Mughal kingdom.

1. The religious policy of Aurangazeb was an important reason for the downfall. He was intolerant towards the other religions and started atrocities on them. He destroyed many Hindu temples. He even executed Guru Tej Bahadur. This made the Sikhs rise against Mughals. He insisted the other religions embrace Islam.

2. The annexation policy of Aurangazeb was also another factor. He annexed Bijapur and Golconda. He wanted to crush the Marathas, and he captured Sambhaji, Shivaji’s son, and he was put to death by Aurangazeb. Hence, the Marathas turned against Mughals.

3. The vastness of the Mughal empire was one of the reasons. It was difficult to administer the entire kingdom from one centre.

4. Too many revolts in the provinces of the empire led to the downfall.

5. Moreover, the successors of Aurangzeb were very weak and cowardice.

6. The invasions of Nadir Shah and Ahmed Shah Abdali posed a huge blow on the already deteriorating Mughal empire.

7. The rise of the Marathas was also a threat to the Mughal empire.

Thus, the once strong Mughal empire gradually declined.