Who had 100 wives in Mughal Empire?

In the Mughal Empire, Emperor Akbar is recorded to have had 100 wives in addition to his primary consorts.

Emperor Akbar's Extensive Harem

Emperor Akbar, one of the most prominent and powerful rulers of the Mughal Dynasty, maintained a remarkably large and diverse imperial harem. Historical accounts, such as those found in the Akbarnama, detail the vast number of women associated with his court.

Beyond his more prominent wives, it is specifically noted that Akbar had:

• 36 Wives: These included his principal consorts, among whom three were designated as chief queens.
• Chief Consort: His first wife and childhood companion, Ruqaiya Sultan Begum, held the esteemed position of chief consort. She is recognized as the longest-serving Mughal empress, with a tenure that spanned nearly 49 years.
• 100 Other Wives: In addition to these primary relationships, Emperor Akbar is documented to have had 100 other wives, further illustrating the immense size and complexity of his royal household.

The practice of maintaining a large number of wives and concubines was not uncommon among rulers of the era, often serving purposes of political alliance, social prestige, and personal preference. Akbar's extensive harem reflected his imperial power and the intricate web of relationships central to his reign.