NCERT's revised class 8 social science textbook detailing 'brutality' of Mughal rulers draws mixed reactions
'Exploring Society: India and Beyond,' released for use in the academic year 2025-2026, offers a multidisciplinary understanding of history, geography, economics and governance, said an official release from NCERT.
With a disclaimer stating that no one should be blamed for the past, the book details the wrongdoings of Muslim rulers.
Emperor Akbar has been held responsible for ordering the massacre of 30,000 people after Chittorgarh city was seized in 1568; Babur has been portrayed as "a ruthless conqueror"; King Aurangazeb has been accused of ordering the destruction of temples in Somnath and Mathura, while Alauddin Khilji's force allegedly launched attacks on Srirangam and Chidambaram temples.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been credited with rebuilding the destroyed temples and safeguarding Hindu traditions.
The book also details the economic exploitation of Indians under both Mughal rule and British rule.
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