Mir Saman
Also called: Khan-i-Saman · Topic: The Mughal Empire: Babur to Aurangzeb · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
The Mir Saman, also called the Khan-i-Saman, was one of the central ministers of the Mughal empire. He ran the royal household and its stores. He also controlled the karkhanas, the imperial workshops that made cloth, weapons, jewellery and other goods for the court. Under Akbar's set-up, his department also covered public works, trade, industry and agriculture. The post shows how big and organised the emperor's household was.
Example
Under Akbar, the Khan-i-Saman managed the royal karkhanas. Skilled artisans there produced fine textiles, arms and ornaments for the emperor and his court.
Don't confuse with
- Diwan: the Diwan handled the empire's finances and revenue. The Khan-i-Saman ran the royal household and workshops.
- Mir Bakhshi: the Mir Bakhshi handled military matters and the mansabdars.