Q. The doctrine of ‘Sulh Kul’ refers to which of the following?
Answer: Akbar’s theory of kingship
Notes: Akbar’s religious policy was a reflection of his views of how a sovereign should behave towards his subjects. These views were an amalgam of Timurid, Persian and Indian ideas of sovereignty. According to Abul Fazl- the biographer of Akbar- the office of a true ruler was a very responsible one which depended on divine grace. Hence, no one could stand between God and a true ruler. A true ruler was distinguished by a paternal love for all his subjects regardless of their religion, race, caste, etc. It was also the duty of the ruler to maintain equilibrium in society by not allowing people of one rank or profession to interfere in the duties and obligations of another. Above all, he was not supposed to allow the dust of sectarian strife to rise. All these together constituted what had been called the policy of ‘Sulh Kul’ or peace to all. So, option a is the correct answer.