The decline of the Mughal Empire is a complex historical event with a myriad of factors contributing to its downfall. To provide a comprehensive understanding, here are the key reasons for the decline under two main historiographical approaches: the Empire-Based Approach and the Region-Centric Approach.

Empire-Based Approach

This approach focuses on internal factors within the structure and functioning of the empire itself.

Aurangzeb’s Policies

1.Religious Orthodoxy: Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic orthodoxy and his enforcement of the Sharia alienated the non-Muslim populations, undermining the previously inclusive policies of Akbar.

2.Expansionism: His continuous military campaigns in the Deccan drained the empire's resources and overstretched its military capabilities.

Succession Disputes

1.Weak Successors: Post-Aurangzeb, the empire was led by less capable rulers who could not manage the vast and diverse empire effectively.