How was Dara Shikoh's passion for literature and philosophy perceived by his contemporaries?

1) As a sign of political cunning
2) As a lack of dexterity for political administration
3) As a strong leadership quality
4) As an inclination towards military pursuits

2

Answer: As a lack of dexterity for political administration
Dara Shikoh's passion for literature and philosophy was misinterpreted as a lack of dexterity for political administration.

The legitimate successor of Shah Jahan, his son Dara Shikoh, was denied his empire and life. As a liberal unorthodox Mughal, Dara’s commitment to Sufi mysticism and deep interest in Vedantic school of thought was outstanding. His persona has been immortalised in this exceptional painting, Dara Shikoh with Sages in a Garden (1635). Loved by his people, Dara, the scholar, who knew many languages, including Sanskrit, is the central theme here. A poet and connoisseur, he commissioned a special album of painting to gift his wife. Unfortunately, Dara, due to his passion for literature and philosophy, was misinterpreted as submissive and that his personality lacked dexterity for political administration. Dara, in apparent contrast to his brother Aurangzeb, was eclectic, philosophical and inclusive in his approach to ideological issues and conflicts.