Tansen, regarded as one of the greatest musicians of his time, was a leading singer in the court of which Mughal emperor?

Introduction / Context:

This question focuses on Indian music history and Mughal culture. Tansen is one of the most celebrated classical musicians in Indian tradition and is often remembered as one of the Navaratnas, or nine jewels, in the court of a specific Mughal emperor. Knowing which emperor patronised Tansen is a standard history and culture question in competitive exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The musician in question is Tansen.
• He is associated with a Mughal imperial court.
• Options list several Mughal emperors.
• We assume knowledge of the famous story of Tansen as a court musician.

Concept / Approach:

Tansen is widely known as the foremost musician in the court of Emperor Akbar. He is associated with the development of Hindustani classical music and many legends about his performances. The approach is to remember the Navaratnas of Akbar court and match Tansen with this emperor rather than with later rulers.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative Check:

Additional verification comes from standard history textbooks, which describe Tansen as being invited to Akbar court from the service of the ruler of Rewa. Stories about Tansen singing ragas that could bring rain or light lamps are always situated in Akbar palace. Later Mughal emperors like Jahangir and Shahjahan had their own cultural achievements but did not have Tansen in their courts.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Option B, Shahjahan, is associated with architectural achievements such as the Taj Mahal, rather than with Tansen.

Option C, Bahadur Shah, refers to later Mughal rulers at a time when imperial power was declining and Tansen was long gone.

Option D, Jahangir, is linked with painting and natural history interests but is not the emperor who patronised Tansen as a Navaratna.

Option E, Humayun, reigned before Akbar and did not have Tansen as a central figure in his court.

Common Pitfalls:

Some learners may confuse the timelines of Mughal rulers and loosely attach Tansen to the Mughal period without recalling the exact emperor. Others may assume that a great artist must belong to the more luxurious courts of Jahangir or Shahjahan. A simple memory aid is to tie Tansen and the Navaratnas directly to Akbar, who was known for assembling a diverse group of talented individuals in his court.

Final Answer:

Tansen was a great musician in the court of Akbar.