Astronomy and astrology in the Baburid period

The Baburids Empire (1526-1858) had a state structure shaped by cosmological themes and a deep interaction of various belief systems. The legitimacy of rulers during this period was strengthened through the interaction between Turko-Mongol traditions and Islamic and Hindu cultures. Cosmological beliefs and astrological practices played an important role in the rulers' understanding of governance during the Baburids period. Astronomy and astrology played a decisive role in decision-making processes and contributed to the social structure and identity formation of the rulers. In order to reinforce the legitimacy of the empire, the miraj event was a frequent theme of the Baburids rulers' positioning themselves as a special being blessed by God, and was used as a strategic tool to consolidate political power and legitimacy. During the reigns of Zahir al-Din Muhammad Babür and Nasir al-Din Muhammad Humayun, the rulers' passion for astronomy and astrology is more evident. Babur Shah, who had an important share in the establishment of the state that would take his name, paid attention to the planetary movements in the sky both in the preparation and execution of the campaigns and carried out his military activities accordingly. The divination of dreams and the movements of the stars influenced his strategic decisions. The period of Humayun Shah emphasized the interest in education and science, and state affairs were organized on the basis of the four main elements (fire, air, water and earth). Humayun Shah considered favorable celestial times for the birth of his children and made astrological calculations. The conjunction of Jupiter and Venus during Akbar Shah's birth was considered a favorable sign in terms of astrology. Astrological calculations had a great impact on the social and political events of the period. Akbar Shah made significant changes in public regulations by basing the annual tax system on the solar calendar, which contributed significantly to the functioning of the state. Under Akbar Shah, astrology became an important source in the decision-making processes of rulers. During the reigns of Jahangir and Shah Jahan, astrology was used as an indispensable field in political communication and strategic orientations. Another important element of the cosmological structure of the Baburids Empire was the construction of observatories. Five of the nine observatories known in Islamic history were built by Turko-Mongol rulers. There is information that observatories were established in cities such as Jaipur, Delhi, Benares, Ujjain and Madura during the Baburids period. The cosmological state of the Baburids Empire reflects a synthesis of deep cultural and belief systems. While the authority of rulers was reinforced by mythological and cosmological elements, their interaction with different social dynamics played an important role in the sustainability of the state. Future generations of leaders should learn from the influence of astrology throughout history and make more informed and careful decisions. Key Words: Baburids Empire, Astronomy, Astrology, Cosmological Sovereignty.