Anarkali (character)

Anarkali is a legendary figure in South Asian history, often depicted as a beautiful courtesan in the Mughal court of Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. She is best known for her tragic love story with Prince Salim, who later became Emperor Jahangir. Their romance, deemed taboo due to her lower status, is said to have led to Anarkali's imprisonment and execution, symbolizing the constraints of love and social class. Anarkali's tale has inspired numerous adaptations in literature, film, and music, making her an enduring icon in cultural narratives across the region.