Nur Jahan

Nur Jahan (1577–1645), born Mehr-un-Nissa, was the consort of Mughal Emperor Jahangir and an influential political figure in his court. Born in Kandahar into a Persian-origin family, she came to the imperial court following the death of her first husband and married Jahangir in 1611. She received the name Nur Jahan ('Light of the World') and the title Padshah Begum. In the later years of his reign she exerted considerable influence over imperial administration, diplomacy and courtly patronage, including gardens and architecture. Her name appeared on a number of imperial gold and silver coins, unusual material testimony to her public standing. Following Jahangir's death in 1627 her political position changed; she spent her later years in Lahore and died in 1645.