# Why Do Our History Books Glorify Aurangzeb and Akbar But Ignore Shivaji Maharaj and Rajput Warriors? **Imagine flipping through your school history textbook, page after page filled with tales of Mughal emperors like Aurangzeb and Akbar, yet barely a whisper about the fierce Indian warriors who defended our land.** Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty recently sparked a national debate by questioning this very imbalance, pointing out how films and textbooks prioritize foreign rulers over homegrown heroes like Shivaji Maharaj and the valiant Rajputs.[1] Suniel Shetty's bold statement highlights a glaring gap in how Indian history is taught and portrayed in popular culture. He argues that school curricula emphasize Mughal figures—known for their expansive empires but also controversial legacies—while sidelining indigenous legends who fought for sovereignty and cultural pride. "Why do films talk about Aurangzeb, Akbar but not Shivaji Maharaj, Rajputs? Our history textbooks..." Shetty questioned, urging a reevaluation of what we pass down to the next generation.[1] This isn't just an actor's rant; it's echoed by groups like the Hindu Janjagruti Samiti, which has criticized the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) for what they see as discriminatory portrayals that undervalue Hindu warriors.[4] Think about it: Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, outmaneuvered the Mughals with guerrilla tactics and built a legacy of self-rule. Rajput kings like Maharana Pratap stood unyielding against invaders, embodying resilience. Yet, these stories often take a backseat to Akbar's tolerance policies or Aurangzeb's conquests. Shetty's call resonates because it taps into a broader frustration—why does our education system seem to celebrate the conquerors more than the defenders?[1] This debate isn't new, but Shetty's voice from Bollywood amplifies it, making us wonder: Does this shape how we view our identity? Engaging with these questions can lead to richer, more balanced narratives in classrooms and on screen. **What do you think—should textbooks give equal space to Shivaji and Rajputs? Drop a comment below with your thoughts, share this post to spark more conversations, and let's push for history that truly represents us all!**
Citations
1.https://www.oneindia.com/entertainment/schools-taught-about-akbar-aurangzeb-but-not-indian-warriors-suniel-shetty-4141627.html
2.https://www.jem.org.in/Quarterly-Review-January-March-2023.pdf
3.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/times-fact-check/17
4.https://punemirror.com/news/shivaji-takes-on-aurangzeb-again-courtesy-hjs/
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
---
This email was sent automatically with n8n