India Foundation, in collaboration with India Habitat Centre, will host a discussion on M J Akbar’s book “After Me, Chaos: Astrology in the Mughal Empire” on January 21, 2026, at Gulmohar Hall, New Delhi. The event will feature political leaders, scholars, and the author himself.
The India Foundation, in partnership with the India Habitat Centre, is set to organize a high-profile discussion on M J Akbar’s latest book “After Me, Chaos: Astrology in the Mughal Empire.” Scheduled for January 21, 2026, at Gulmohar Hall, New Delhi, the event promises to delve into the intersection of astrology, politics, and imperial decision-making during the Mughal era.
Key Highlights
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The book explores how astrology influenced succession politics, governance, and the exercise of power in the Mughal court. Akbar, a seasoned journalist, author, and former central minister, presents a historical narrative that connects celestial beliefs with political realities.
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The discussion will feature prominent voices including Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Sudhanshu Trivedi, BJP national spokesperson Shazia Ilmi, and Come Carpentier, Distinguished Fellow at the India Foundation. Together with Akbar, they will examine the book’s arguments and contextualize astrology’s role in shaping Mughal imperial strategies.
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The program will begin with introductory remarks by experts, followed by an open dialogue that encourages diverse perspectives. Scholars and political leaders are expected to debate the relevance of astrology in historical governance and its broader cultural implications.
Event Details
Date: January 21, 2026
Time: 6 PM onwards
Venue: Gulmohar Hall, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi
Conclusion
By spotlighting M J Akbar’s work, the India Foundation aims to foster a deeper understanding of how astrology intertwined with politics in one of India’s most influential dynasties. The event is positioned as both a scholarly exploration and a cultural reflection, bridging history with contemporary discourse.
Sources: UNIIND, India Foundation