Why did Dara Shikoh lose?

Dara Shikoh lost against his brother Aurangzeb due to the following reasons:

• Dara Shokoh had no experience in matters of warfare, while Aurangzeb had capable commanders like Mir Jumla II to help him in war.

• Although Dara Shikoh’s army was large in number, Aurangzeb had the edge when it came to quality

• At the battle of Samugarh, Dara Sikoh’s close knit army lacked the coordination which Aurangzeb’s army possessed. This led to the defeat of Dara Sikoh in the ensuing battle.

For further reading check the following articles:

• Akbar’s Successors
• List of Mughal Emperors
• Mughal Empire in India