The story of Indian artistry would be incomplete without the Mughals. Their empire, established by Babur in 1526 after the First Battle of Panipat, shaped not just the politics and architecture of the subcontinent, but its artistic soul. Stretching across modern-day India, Pakistan, and parts of Bangladesh and Iran, the Mughal dynasty left behind more than just monuments—they left a living legacy in the form of handmade rugs.

From grand forts to quiet corners of royal palaces, art flourished under Mughal rule. Every emperor had a deep appreciation for fine craftsmanship, seen in the detailed miniature paintings, intricate carvings, and yes—luxurious, hand-knotted carpets. Known as farsh or qali in Persian, these rugs were more than just floor coverings. They were status symbols, diplomatic gifts, and even trade assets.

Akbar’s Vision: The Birth of Indian Rug Weaving

It was under the reign of Emperor Akbar in the 16th century that the handmade rug industry in India truly took root. Enchanted by Persian carpets, Akbar invited skilled weavers from Persia to his royal workshops. But instead of keeping the knowledge exclusive, these master artisans trained local Indian weavers—planting the seeds of an entirely new tradition.

Soon, Indian artisans began to blend Persian techniques with native sensibilities. From floral Kashmiri patterns to the symmetry of Rajasthani design, each carpet began to reflect a fusion of cultures. The pupils quickly outgrew their masters, producing masterpieces for royal courts and international trade.

Beyond Akbar: The Mughal Legacy Grows

Even after Akbar, the Mughal love for art endured. Shah Jahan—best known for the Taj Mahal—also carried this tradition forward. In fact, handmade carpets were laid at the entrances of the Taj itself, echoing the architecture’s motifs in their weaves. The elegance of Persian-inspired carpets became inseparable from Mughal royalty.

When British colonizers arrived in India, they were often gifted with these exquisite rugs. Eventually, handmade Indian carpets became prized exports, with regions like Bhadohi, Panipat, and Mirzapur emerging as major weaving centers. Over time, however, rising demand led to compromises in quality. Yet, the influence of Mughal art never faded.

Indian Craftsmanship Finds Its Voice

Before Mughal influence, Indian dhurries—thin, flat-woven rugs—were simple and often solid-colored. With the arrival of Persian weaving techniques, these dhurries transformed into storytelling canvases, echoing Mughal grandeur. Whether knotting thick pile carpets or fine tapestry rugs, Indian artisans began to infuse their own culture into traditional Persian layouts, creating designs that were both rooted and revolutionary.

During colonial rule, art became a form of quiet resistance. Village scenes, dreams of freedom, and daily life began appearing in rugs and paintings. The Mughal-influenced techniques became tools for self-expression.

A Legacy That Lives On

The Mughal influence isn’t just visible in rugs. From curtains to clothing, handmade textiles featuring Persian-inspired motifs still hold strong in Indian design. In every weave lies a piece of history—a reminder that what Akbar once started, still thrives beneath our feet today.