MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH

MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH

The land of Punjab had been victim of perpetual ingress of invaders from the North-West. For centuries, it suffered the ignominy of plundering, pillaging, mass scale genocide, cruelty of the alien forces who robed it of all its mighty glory. Incessant plunderings by the likes of Ahmed Shah Abdali and Mughals much before him had not only weakened the coffers of the natives but had also affected their will to resist. One such person who arrested the ever increasing decline of the state, who ruled on the minds of Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs alike, who established a reign of peace and removed the fear of invaders from the minds of population was Maharaja Ranjit Singh who was born on 13th November 1780 at Gujranwala in the house of S. Mahan Singh Shukarchakia and Mai Raj Kaur. Mai Raj Kaur was the daughter of the king of Jind. She was also known by the name of ‘Malwain’. The Lineage. The Lineage. The elders of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were brave warriors who had earned fame and high position in Punjab by virtue of their exploits, ability and bravery. Having occupied a large area of Punjab, they had established their own misl (confedracy) by the name of Shukarchakia. This misl was established by great grand father of Ranjit Singh. His name was Budha Singh (Budh Singh). S. Budha Singh participated in many Dharam Yudhs (religious battles) as head of the Khalsa Dal. He had more than forty marks of wounds on his body received in various battlefields. S. Budha Singh died in 1718. He had two sons–S. Chanda Singh and S. Naudh Singh. Both brothers won many battles and expanded their territorial jurisdiction from what was left by their father. The Sandhawalia dynasty of Raja Sansi were the descendents of S. Chanda Singh. Sardar Naudh Singh was great grandfather of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He was a courageous and a brave Sikh. He participated in many battles against Ahmad Shah Abdali as part of the force headed by S. Kapur Singh. He was the leading Sardar amongst the leaders of the misls. S. Naudh Singh died fighting Pathans in 1752. His son named Charhat Singh was born in 1721. As he grew up, he became famous as a brave, courageous and valliant person beside being a benevolent Sikh. He achieved many significant victories along with the leaders of Khalsa Dal and earned name and fame for himself. During the two holocausts, he led the Khalsa Dal with panache, bravery and intelligence. He took over much territory from the Muslim of foreign origin and brought it under his control. He died in 1774 during a battle when his own gun had burst. S. Mahan Singh was the son of S. Charhat Singh. He was born in 1760. At the tender age of fourteen, S. Mahan Singh took over the command of the misl and discharged his duties to perfection. He too annexed much territory after defeating the muslim rulers/nawabs. During one of the battles, he fell seriously ill and handed over the command of his misl to his twelve year old son–Ranjit Singh, and returned home to Gujranwala. He died in 1792. 

Birth and Childhood

Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Birth and Childhood—Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born on 13th November 1780. He was named Budh Singh by his mother. His father S. Mahan Singh received the news of the birth of his son when he was returning after winning a campaign. To commemorate his victory, he named his son as Ranjit Singh. He became famous by this very name. For the religious education of his only son, he engaged a Granthî of a government Dharamshâlâ. At the same time, adequate arrangements were made to train him in horse riding, swimming, weapon training and other physical fitness. He was very fond of horse riding and weapon training. Therefore he achieved proficiency in both these disciplines at a very young age. He could ride the horse the whole day without getting tired. He could wield the sword with such deftness that used to surprise many elders. He started going to the battlefield with his father at a very young age. In one of the battle, he was surprised by a Pathan with an attack. He was not more than ten years at that time. He was just not scared. With one slash of the sword, he brought the head of the Pathan rolling on the ground. S. Mahan Singh and other soldiers were very pleased to see this unique feat by a ten years old. Once when S. Mahan Singh fell seriously ill during a battle, he handed over the command of the battle to Ranjit Singh and went away to Gujranwala. Ranjit Singh performed his duty with elain and won the battle. Before his death, Mahan Singh received the news of this victory. He was immensely pleased. He was now sure that his son would follow the footsteps of his elders and expand his regime and area of influence. 

Leadership of the Misl

After the death of his father, Ranjit Singh took over the reigns of his father’s misl at the age of twelve years. Since he was very young and not well versed with the intricacies of administration, both Sardar Dal Singh and Diwan Lakhpat Rai managed the affairs of the state according to the directions from Sardarni Raj Kaur. In 1798, Diwan Lakhpat Rai died. Sardarni Raj Kaur, mother of Ranjit Singh also expired during this period. He was now 18 years old. So he took over the mantle of the misl/Raj in his own hands. In this task, he was fortunate to receive the help of another very intelligent woman. She was his mother-in-law, Rani Sada Kaur who was the leader of Kanaihya misl. Her daughter Mehtab Kaur was married to Ranjit Singh in 1795. By the wise counselling of Sada Kaur, Ranjit Singh progressed and prospered a lot. 

Marriage and Issue

 1. As described above, Ranjit Singh’s first marriage took place with Mehtab Kaur in 1795. She was daughter of S. Gurbaksh Singh and grand daughter of S. Jai Singh of Kanaihya Misl. This marriage was solemnised at Batala. She gave birth to Maharaja Sher Singh and Kanwar Tara Singh. She died in 1813. 

2. His second marriage took place with Datar Kaur, daughter of S. Ram Singh Nakai in 1798. Her actual name was Raj Kaur. Since the name of Ranjit Singh’s mother was also Raj Kaur, therefore her name was changed to Datar Kaur. She gave birth to Maharaja Khark Singh, the eldest son of the Maharaja. Maharaja Sahib used to address her as ‘Nakain’. She died in 1818. 

3. His third marriage took place with Jind Kaur, daughter of S. Manna Singh Aulakh, a resident of village Chaarh (Sialkot). She gave birth to Maharaja Dalip Singh. After annexing Punjab, the Britishers imprisoned her in Sheikhupura and then in Chunar in (Uttar Pardesh). She escaped to Nepal in the disguise of a beggar woman. She stayed there honourably. Her son Dalip Singh had been taken away to England by the Britishers. In 1861, she reached England to meet him. She died there in 1891. 

4. His fourth marriage took place in 1811 with the widow of Sardar Sahib Singh, a landlord of Gujarat. Her name was Rattan Kaur. She gave birth to Kanwar Multan Singh. 5. The fifth marriage of the Maharaja took place with Daya Kaur. She gave birth to Kanwar Kashmira Singh and Kanwar Peshaora Singh. She died in 1843. 

Occupation of Lahore

Occupation of Lahore. After taking over the command of his misl and the reign of his territory, Ranjit Singh realised that most of the area of Punjab was in the occupation of misls who were functioning independently. They were fighting with each other. Factionalism was rampant among them. Some areas like Multan and Kasur were under the rule of alien Muslims. Maharaja Ranjit Singh did not like this division and in-fightings of Sikh misls. So he decided to remove the divison and factionalism and establish one rule in the Punjab. Such a state should have peace, prosperity and unity among them. So he kept this objective before himself and started working towards its fulfillment. Soon after the first marriage of the Maharaja Sahib, his mother-in-law needed his help. S. Jassa Singh Ramgarhia started ingressing into the territory of Kanaihiya misl. So Maharaja Ranjit Singh reached Batala at the head of a column of troops. On his way, he stayed at Lahore for two days. Lahore was in the hands of Bhangi Sardars. This is when he saw the fort of Lahore and developed a desire to occupy it. Without doing so, it was impossible to bring the whole of Punjab under one flag. 

Invasions of Shah Zaman

Invasions of Shah Zaman. Shah Zaman, grandson of Ahmed Shah Abdali became the king of Kabul in 1783. Like his grandfather, he too decided to invade India repeatedly. He came to India in 1793 for the first time and in 1795 for the second time. But due to internal disturbances in his kingdom and after facing defeat at the hands of the Khâlsâ, he did not come beyond Panja Sahib. In 1796 he invaded for the third time. On reaching Panja Sahib, he wrote a letter to the heads of the misls including S. Ranjit Singh to accept defeat and subjugation. The Khâlsâ replied that they were prepared to fight. With great enthusiasm and speed, he reached Lahore. After occupation of Lahore, he headed towards Amritsar where the Khâlsâ army was waiting in full preparation. A pitched battle took place in which Shah Zaman absconded after a crushing defeat. In 1798, he attacked India for the fourth time. Fighting his way, he reached Lahore and occupied it. S. Ranjit Singh and some other Sardars attacked Lahore. Frightened, Shah Zaman took up positions in the fort. Khâlsâ army encircled the fort from all directions and blocked all routes that would help providing logistic support to the forces inside the fort. The Khâlsâ army tightened the noose on Shah Zaman and caused much hardship to him. Much peeved, he decided to come out and face the Sikhs in the open field. An interesting incident of this time is worth narrating, that establishes how brave and courageous was Maharaja Ranjit Singh. When Shah Zaman was bottled up in the fort of Lahore, Maharaja Ranjit Singh took some Singhs with him and came close to the fort three times. On reaching ‘Samman Burj’ where Shah Zaman was staying, they fired shots and then Ranjit Singh shouted loudly–“O grand son of Ahmad Shah, the grand son of S. Charhat Singh has come to meet you. Come out if you have the courage.” He made this challenging cry thrice but Shah Zaman kept quiet. Soon after, he returned to his country.

Occupation of Lahore

Occupation of Lahore. Soon after the return of Shah Zaman, the Sardars of Bhangi misl re-occupied the city of Lahore. All the three Sardars namely S. Sahib Singh, Chet Singh and Mohar Singh used to fight with each other. The administration of the city had deteriorated. The population was much peeved. No one cared about the protection and defence of the city. Appreciating the situation, Nawab Nizam Din of Kasur decided to attack Lahore and capture it. Although the people of Lahore were much distressed by the behaviour of the Sikh Sardars, yet they considered the Nawab of Kasur as worst adversity. They had also heard the glory and fame of Ranjit Singh. His subjects were happy, prosperous and living in peace. They were sure that the city will become more fortunate if Ranjit Singh becomes the ruler of Lahore. No one like the Nawab of Kasur would dare threaten it beside it becoming rich and prosperous. So some leading personalities of the city like Hakim Hakam Rai, Mian Mohkam Din, Mian Mohammad Barkar, Mian Mohammad Tahir, Mian Ashiq Mohammad, Bhai Gurbaksh Singh etc wrote a petition letter to Ranjit Singh requesting him to take over Lahore. As it is, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was looking for a similar opportunity. Yet he did not want to act in haste. He sent Quazi Abdul Rehman, a trusted official of his darbar to Lahore to carryout an on the spot appreciation of the situation. At the same time, he himself went to Batala to consult his mother-in-law–Rani Sada Kaur. She counselled him in favour of occupation of Lahore. She also agreed to extend her help in this venture. Both collected an army of 25,000 each and set out towards Lahore. On reaching Lahore, they camped in the garden of Wazir Khan where Museum is located these days. Ranjit Singh divided his army into two groups. One group was placed under Rani Sada Kaur and it attacked from Delhi Gate side. With the second group, Ranjit Singh started advancing from Luhari Gate side. The Bhangi Sardar could not face the onslaught. Sahib Singh and Mohar Singh absconded the city while Chet Singh hid himself in the fort. On a pre-fixed signal, by Mian Mohkam Din, the gates of the city were opened soon. S. Chet Singh vacated the fort. Thus Ranjit Singh occupied Lahore on 7th July 1799. The residents of the city celebrated the occasion. A just rule had been established and the people heaved a sigh of relief. S. Chet Singh accepted superemacy of Ranjit Singh. He was treated kindly. He was awarded a handsome Jagir. Sahib Singh and Mohar Singh, the two other Bhangi Sardars joined hands with Sardar Jodh Singh Ramgarhia and Nawab Nizam Din of Kasur in order to re-occupy Lahore. A pitched battle fought at a place called Bhasin brought out Ranjit Singh victorious. He was magnanimous to grant handsome Jagirs to both Sahib Singh and Mohar Singh. Many other Sardars who accepted defeat were also rewarded with Jagirs.

Invasion of Jammu

Invasion of Jammu. Soon after, Ranjit Singh invaded Jammu. He conquered Mirowal and Narowal on the way. The king of Jammu accepted defeat. He made an offering of twenty thousand rupees and an elephant. On his return journey, Ranjit Singh occupied Sialkot and Dilawargarh. Sensing the ever increasing influence of Ranjit Singh the Britishers sent Yusaf Ali Khan to Lahore as their ambassador. He carried many gifts as good will gesture. He was extended much honour and welcomed the sentiments of friendship of the Britishers.

Title of Maharaja

Title of Maharaja. On the Baisakhi day of 1801, a big gathering took place inside Lahore fort. Many Hindu, Muslim and Sikh Rajas and Sardars from Punjab attended the Darbar. After making a supplication (Ardâs) to the Almighty according to the Sikh traditions, Ranjit Singh sat on the royal throne. Baba Sahib Singh Bedi applied the RajTilak (consecration mark of kingship) to him. He was unanimously honoured with the title of Maharaja. Prayers were held in the mosque, temples and Gurudawaras of the city. It was a time of rejoicing for the residents of the city who observed ‘deepmala’ for three consecutive days. Orders were issued to release coins. The mint produced coins of gold and silver. The Maharaja named the coin as Nanakshahi. Instead of his name, he engraved the names of Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh. Whatever number of coins were minted on the first day were distributed in charity. Common Punjabi Rule. 

Common Punjabi Rule

Now Maharaja paid particular attention to the administration of the city. For managing the affairs of the state, merits of a person were considered. Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs were all given equal opportunities. The city was divided into Mohallâs (Segments or Avenues) and a Chaudhary (Person incharge) was appointed for every Mohallâ. Muslims discords were settled according to Sharah. Quazi Nizâm-ud-Din was appointed the principal Quazi of Lahore. Saadulla Chishti and Mohammad Shah Mufti were appointed as magistrates under him. A charitable hospital was opened in the city. This was placed under the care of Fakir Noor-ud-Din, brother of Fakir Aziz-ud-Din. To maintain peace in the city and provide protection to the assets of the people, police force was raised. Imam Baksh was appointed as Kotwal of the city. Schools, temples and mosques were given liberal donations. Panchayats were established in the villages who were entrusted with the responsibilities of resolving disputes as well as administer the local affairs. Separate code of conduct was framed for the officials. It was a directive issued to the officials that they will keep the welfare of the people as their primary concern. Thus Maharaja Ranjit Singh established a common rule of Punjabis in the Punjab. It was his strong desire that such a rule should get established in the whole of Punjab.

Political State of Punjab

Political State of Punjab. Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to bring the entire Punjab under one rule. It was a difficult task. The Punjab was divided into number of small states. Central Punjab, Main Doab and Malwa were under the rule of misls Sardars. All of them were at daggers drawn with each other. They were very envious of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Kasur, Multan, Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, Kohat, Tank, Attock, Kashmir and Bahawalpur were under the muslim rule. Jammu, Kangra, Mandi, Suket, Basoli, Kulu and other hill states were under the Rajput chiefs. The Britishers were a strong force in the East of Punjab. They were keen to annexe Punjab into their kingdom. He was surrounded by opponents from all sides. Despite their presence, Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in establishing his mighty empire. Although he could not succeed in uniting the whole of Punjab, he brought the spirit of being Punjabis into the minds of the people and thus a feeling of brotherhood.

Unity Efforts

Unity Efforts. In order to achieve his aim, the first thing that the Maharaja did was to take possession of small hemlets under Sardars and Misaldars. These Sardars and Misaldars were granted adequate Jagirs. In 1802, he occupied Amritsar and granted Jagirs to Bhangi Sardars. Secondly, he befriended the strong misls and removed misunderstandings amidst them. He brought Kanaihya and Nakai misls close to him by marrying into their families. He established brotherhood with Sardar Fateh Singh, leader of the Ahluwalia misl by exchanging his turban with him. He had the disputes between Nabha and Patiala settled and made them his own and each others friend. To establish his honourable intentions in their mind, he gave away a part of his won territory to Maharaja Jind and Nabha. Similarly, Phagwara and areas around it was won by him and handed over to S. Fateh Singh of Kapurthala. By such efforts, the Maharaja Sahib consolidated the broken and scattered strength of the Sikhs.

Occupation of Pathan Territory

Occupation of Pathan Territory. Some part of this consolidation was still left. There was much territory in North-West Punjab that had been under the rule of Pathans. Maharaja now decided to win these territories and bring them under his rule by annexing then with Punjab. This was necessary to establish a just and peaceful reign. 

Kasur

First of all, he concentrated on Kasur which was very near Lahore. It was a state with all sorts of problems. Its ruler Nizam-ud-Din was against the Maharaja. He was keen to take over Lahore but the Maharaja did not let his dream get fulfilled. Then he joined hands with Bhangi Sardars and took part in the Battle of Bhasin against Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After sorting out the affairs of Lahore, Maharaja Sahib sent an army against Kasur in 1801. After a fierce battle, Nizam-ud-Din accepted defeat and agreed to pay yearly tribute to the Lahore Darbar. But he was very unhappy at heart. Realising that the Maharaja was busy in a campaign against Chiniot, he revolted and declared Jehad. Maharaja once again defeated him by sending a garrison against him. Nizam-ud-Din wailed and whimpered and promised to remain loyal to him. The big hearted Maharaja forgave him. Nawab Nizam-ud-Din died in 1807. His brother Kutab Din became the Nawab of Kasur. He did not want to serve under Lahore Darbar. Maharaja decided to end this troublesome thorn from his side once for all. So he attacked Kasur. After a pitched battle, Maharaja overcame the resistance and took over the state. Nawab Kutab-Din was caught absconding. He was given a Jagir at Mamdot in Ferozepur district. Its annual revenue then was one lakh rupees. In 1803, Maharaja won the cities of Jhang and its associated territory and annexed it in his kingdom Multan.After settling the score with Nawab of Kasur, the Maharaja turned towards Multan in 1803. This was the hub of Pathan Raj. Maharaja advanced towards Multan. Its ruler Nawab Muzaffar Khan accepted defeat without fighting and agreed to pay tribute. In the meantime, Nawab Kutab Din became rebelious and commenced Jehad. Nawab Muzaffar Khan of Multan helped him secretly. Maharaja Sahib came to know of it. He raided Multan and Nawab Muzaffar Khan claimed clemency and paid a sum of rupees seventy thousand as tribute. He was forgiven.

Treaty of Amritsar

Advent of Holkar to Punjab

In 1805, when the Maharaja Sahib was busy in his campaign against Multan, he received the news that Jaswant Rao Holkar, a Mârâtha Chief of Indore had come to Punjab after facing defeat at the hands of Britishers. He had come to seek help and refuge. Lord Lake of the British Army was right on his heels. Maharaja Sahib rushed to Lahore and made arrangements for the stay of Holkar at Amritsar. Holkar asked for help against the Britishers but Maharaja said that he will decide after consulting his council of ministers. Maharaja did not want to turn Punjab into a battlefield for no cogent reasons and at the same times, he did not want Holkar to feel spurned since he had come in his refuge. So he decided to bring both Holkar and Britishers together through an accord. Taking Holkar in his confidence, he wrote a letter to Lord Lake. The Britishers readily accepted the proposals of the Maharaja. Holkar and Britishers signed an accord. Britishers returned much of the territory to Holkar that they had occupied. 

Help to Raja of Kangara

Help to Raja of Kangara. After setting the issue between Patiala and Nabha, Maharaja was returning to Lahore when he met younger brother of Sansar Chand the king of Kangara. He prayed that some of their territory had been taken by General Amar Singh Thapa of Nepal who was planning to make further ingress into their territory. So he sought help and protection from the Maharaja. Maharaja headed towards Kangara with a sizeable army. Amar Singh Thapa absconded without fighting.

States Beyond River Satluj Under Britishers

States Beyond River Satluj Under Britishers. So far the Maharaja’s objective was to unite all the Sikh states and prepare one front that would become sign of a big empire–on the pattern of a Punjabi kingdom with hues of Sikh Raj. He tried to befriend trans river Satluj states like Patiala, Jind, Nabha. Maharaja had made it clear to them that he had no intentions of annihilating them into his kingdom. But a very insignificant event caused much fear in the minds of the trans Satluj Sardars. It may be recalled that the Maharaja had annexed the territory of S. Tara Singh Dalewala after his demise. In 1808, these Sardars assembled at Samana. A village of Patiala and decided that instead of joining hands with Maharaja Ranjit Singh they would rather join the Britishers. They informed about their decision through an ambassador who was sent to Delhi. There was a misapprehension in the minds of the British officials that Napolean or Czar of Russia may attack India. So they did not want their relationship to become sour with Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They dilly-dallied their decision for sometime. At the same time, they sent Sir Charles Metcalfe as ambassador to the court of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with a proposal of treaty of friendship between the two governments. Maharaja was well seized with their dilemma. The terms offered by Sir Charles Metcalfe were not accepted by the Maharaja but he made some counter proposals. Metcalfe was not empowered by his government to do necessary modification to the terms and conditions. So he sent these counter proposals to the Governor General at Kolkata. Maharaja Sahib sensed the danger that the Britishers would take the states of Malwa under their control. Therefore in order to maintain his authority over them, he marched into Malwa. He established police posts in Faridkot and Malerkotla and placed his soldiers there. At that time, the fear of Napolean’s invasion blew over. The Governor General sent a letter to the Maharaja that the British Government has taken the states south of river Satluj under its protection. At the same time, they have sent a strong army across river Jamuna via Boorhia and Patiala that had stationed itself at Ludhiana. Maharaja Sahib felt much annoyed at this development. He started war preparations. He concentrated his artillery at Phillaur. The fort at Amritsar was strengthened. The requisite ammunition was stocked. All Sikh Sardars were ordered to be ready. An army of one lakh strong soldiers assembled at Lahore in a short span of time. But despite his anger, the Maharaja took no drastic step that would lead him into battle situation. He knew well that he was not firmly established as a ruler. He was still surrounded by hostile rulers from some sides of his kingdom. He appreciated the situation and realised that in the event of a war with Britishers, these hostile chiefs may also rise against him. Therefore he kept his anger suppressed.

Treaty with British Government

Treaty with British Government. In the meantimes, Sir Charles Metcalfe brought another set of proposals. These were to the liking of the Maharaja. Both sides signed this treaty at Amritsar on 25th April 1809. The conditions were as under : 

(a) Both sides will remain friends forever. 

(b) The British Government will treat Maharaja amongst the most respected powers in India. They will not interfere in their territory North of river Satluj. 

(c) The Maharaja will not interfere in territories South of the river (Satluj). 

Political Impact of the Treaty

This treaty had much impact on the political situation of the Punjab. The expansion of the Maharaja’s kingdom towards South was arrested. Without much effort, the Britishers became the rulers of areas between river Jamuna and Satluj. The objective of consolidating the Sikh states into a single powerful force as envisaged by the Maharaja was impaired. One positive point that went in favour of the Maharaja was that he was freed from any possible threat from this side. Therefore, he could now concentrate on his campaigns towards West against the hill chiefs. The most dangerous effect of the treaty was the chasm of Majha-Malwa that had developed amongst the Sikhs. This divide was used by the Britishers to their advantage at a later time.

Wins over Kangra and Attock-Kohinoor

Victory of Kangara

Victory of Kangara. Now that British army had stationed itself at Ludhiana, Maharaja asked his army at Kangra to fall back to Phillaur. With this vacation, Amar Singh Thapa of Nepal re-entered Kangra. The king of Kangra again asked for help. Maharaja headed towards Kangra. He blocked the lines of communications of the Nepal army cutting off their supplies. Pitched battle was fought between the two. On 24th September 1809, Khalsa army took over Kangra fort. In order to check the frequent and unhindered interference of the Nepalese and plugging the routes of ingress, the Maharaja annexed the area of Kangra in his own kingdom. S. Desa Singh Majithia was appointed its ruler. Maharaja held a Darbar in the fort in which the kings of Chamba, Nurpur, Kotla, Shahpur, Guler, Kehloor, Mandi, Saket and Kulu also attended and paid tribute to the Maharaja. 

Invasion of Multan

Invasion of Multan. After this, the Maharaja won the states of Gujarat, Bhera, Miani Khushab, Sahiwal, Jammu, Wazirabad etc and annexed them with his kingdom. In February 1810, the Maharaja paid attention towards Multan. Its Nawab, Muzaffar Khan who had accepted paying the tribute on regular basis was now becoming defiant. So Maharaja Sahib reached Multan. S. Fateh Singh Ahluwalia also reached there with his army. A pitched battle was fought but Nawab was defeated. He apologised once again and promised to remain loyal to the Lahore Sarkar. The magnanimous Maharaja forgave him once again. On reaching Lahore from Multan, Maharaja won the territories of Daska, Halowal, Katas and Khiorha. Then he also annexed the fort of Mangla and other small forts across river Jhelum.

Shah Shujah and Koh-i-Noor

The king of Kabul, Shah Shujah was defeated by his brother Shah Mohammad and was exiled from the country. He came to Punjab for refuge. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was near Khushab at that time. He called Shah Shujah and gave him due honour. He also helped him with money to enable him live life well and also fixed pension for the future. He was also permitted to reside wherever he liked. He chose Rawalpindi. After sometimes, he left Rawalpindi and went to Kabul. He defeated his brother Shah Mohammad and became king again. But within four months, he was dethroned, imprisoned and sent to Kashmir. Maharaja Sahib sent for his family at Lahore and gave them a house to live in. They were also allotted pension. Fateh Khan, a minister of Kabul wanted to invade Kashmir and capture Shah Shujah. He sent his Diwan named Godharh Mal to the Maharaja and sought his help. Maharaja Sahib agreed to help him. The family of Shah Shujah was much worried about Shah who was in prison in Kashmir. They were sure that Fateh Khan would kill Shah Shujah. His wife Vafa Begum asked both Fakir Aziz-ud-Din and Diwan Mohkam Chand that if Maharaja could arrange release of her husband from Kashmir, she would present the Koh-i-Noor diamond as a tribute. Maharaja Sahib agreed. Khalsa army was sent to Kashmir under the command of Diwan Mohkam Chand. The army of Fateh Khan also joined in. Pitched battle was fought. Diwan Mohkam Chand took Shah Shujah out of the prison and without bothering about the objections and opposition of Fateh Khan, brought him to Lahore. When Shah Shujah had spent some time with his family at Lahore, he was reminded of the promise made by his wife. Shah Shujah started evading the issue. He made a false statement that the Koh-i-Noor diamond was pawned by his wife at Qandhar and is not with them at that time. Both Fakir Aziz-ud-Din and Diwan Mohkam Chand were much disappointed. They had motivated the Maharaja to send an army against Kashmir. They impressed upon Shah to fulfil his promise. In June 1813, Shah and his wife handed over the diamond to the Maharaja.

Victory of Attock

Victory of Attock. The Maharaja now planned to expand his territory towards North-West frontier. He was firmly of the opinion that both Punjab and India can only be protected if the might of the Pathans is suppressed. During the campaign of Kashmir, Sikhs had learnt the tactics and warfare technique of the Pathans and they were convinced that they can defeat them. The fort of Attock on river Sind was the gateway to India for the invaders. In order to save the country against their attack, it was necessary to win and occupy it. The Maharaja decided to go on a campaign against Attock. So he sent a strong army under the command of Diwan Mohkam Chand, S. Hari Singh Nalwa and Desa Singh Majithia. When Fateh Khan of Kabul learnt about the attack of Khalsa army on Attock, he sent a large army under the command of his brother Dost Mohammad. But before he could arrive at the scene, Khalsa army had occupied the fort of Attock. However Dost Mohammad laid a siege around the fort. After sometimes, the Khâlsâ army attacked the Pathans. A bloody battle was fought at Hazro. Dost Mohammad was wounded. His army ran helter-skelter. The Sikhs chased them over a long distance. The Khâlsâ army annexed areas of Burhan, and other forts around Attock. This was an important victory. Firstly it brought all territory upto river Attock under the rule of Maharaja Sahib. Secondly, he defeated Pathans who had been invading India unchecked. This victory made the Maharaja very popular amongst his countrymen and a person to be feared by the enemies.

Victories of Hill Areas and Multan

Invasion of Kashmir

Invasion of Kashmir. In the summer of 1814, Kashmir was invaded. Maharaja Sahib also participated in this campaign. Pitched battles were fought around Behram Gala. Sikh army kept on advancing. They occupied Amadpur and Hamirpur. Battles fought with Pathans were fierce in which the Sikhs emerged victorious. The rains set in. Khâlsâ army advanced towards Srinagar and encircled it. Azim Khan, the ruler of Kashmir, signed an accord with the Maharaja. He sent valuable gifts and agreed to remain loyal and faithful to Lahore Darbar. Thus ended this campaign but Kashmir could not be conquered. Sorting Out the Hill Chiefs. 

Sorting Out the Hill Chiefs

The partial success of Khâlsâ in Kashmir in 1814 made the kings of Rajouri and Bhimber defiant. An army of Khâlsâ was sent to settle the score with them. The king of Rajouri took positions in a fort on the hill top. Sikhs took their guns up the hill loaded on elephants and shelled the fort. The kind accepted the defeat. The entire area was annexed with Khâlsâ Raj. Later, he also took over Kangra and other hill territory. 

Coronation of Maharaja Kharak Singh

It was the policy of the Maharaja to expose and train his sons and grandsons in the matters of administration to enable them discharge their responsibilities successfully. Under the same policy, he declared Maharaja Kharak Singh as his successor, on the day of Dusehra of 1816. He was coronated as such and vested with many responsibilities of the state.

Occupation of Multan

The Nawab of Multan, Muzaffar Khan had accepted to pay yearly tribute to Lahore Darbar but he kept dilly dallying the payment. He was against the Maharaja and could never reconcile to the idea of serving one of his honoured subjects. Therefore in 1817 Maharaja Sahib decided to annexe the state with Khâlsâ Raj and end this perpetual thorn from the side of Lahore Darbar. In January 1818, Prince Kharak Singh was given command of 25,000 strong army. Nawab Muzaffar Khan declared Jehad. Muslims from all sides started assembling under his banner. A fierce battle was fought near the city of Multan. The Nawab lost and took shelter behind the walls of the city and closed the doors. The Khâlsâ army broke the wall at number of places and entered the city. After extensive massacre, they took control of the city. Muzaffar Khan went into the fort. The Khâlsâ army encircled the fort and started shelling it. Ghulam Jilani, a Muslim writer has recorded an eye witness account of the events. It discloses the strong sacrificing spirit of the Sikhs. He writes- “When the walls of the fort were being shelled, the wheel of a gun carriage broke. The officer incharge firing wanted to continue with shelling for some more time, to break the wall. There was no time to get the wheel repaired. The Commander told his men that it was the time of sacrifice. For the glory of the Panth, someone should put his shoulders in place of the wheel. Many young men leaped forward to be first to do the needful, By the order of the commander the volunteers came forward one by one and kept sacrificing themselves. When about ten shorts had been fired, a big gap appeared in the wall. This siege lasted for three months. It was a fierce battle. Nawab Muzaffar Khan, his five sons and nephews, some other near and dear one’s were killed. The fort was overpowered in June 1818. Two of his sons were arrested alive. They were brought to Lahore. They were awarded Jagirs in Shakarpur areas. The residents of Lahore celebrated this victory with lights and fire works.

Victories of Peshawar and Kashmir

Winning of Peshawar

Winning of Peshawar. Maharaja Sahib was well aware of the fact that the Pathans had been invading India unimpeded from North-West side of India. So he decided to plug these routes forever beside displaying the military prowess to the Pathans. After the occupation of Attock, he resolved to win Peshawar. It was part of the Kabul regime. Maharaja commenced an expedition to Peshawar in October 1818. He reached Hazro via Rohtas, Rawalpindi and Panja Sahib. To assess the dispositions of the enemy across river Attock, he sent a patrolling party to probe and know their strength. The Pathans came to know about it. They immediately mustered a force of 7 to 8 thousands Pathans and took position on hills on either side of Khairabad. When the Sikh soldiers came within the range of their guns they let loose fire on them. When the Maharaja Sahib came to know of the event, he was beside himself with anger. He had brought a contingent of boatmen from river Ravi, Chenab and Jehlum. He ordered them to identify the place from where the river could be crossed conveniently. Then in the zeal of revenge and success, Maharaja Sahib said loudly–“Attock can stop those who have hesitations in their mind. It cannot stop those who have no reluctance in their heart.” Saying so, the lion of Punjab entered the river on his elephant. He stopped his elephant in mid stream. The army shouted their war cry and entered the river. Soon, they were across the river. The Pathans were ready and waiting. A pitched battle was fought. The Sikhs showed their prowess with sword. Akali Phoola Singh stood out in bravery and valour. Many thousand Pathans fell in the battlefield. They raised a flag of truce and accepted defeat. Thus the Maharaja Sahib took over the forts of Khairabad and Jahangirey. After the occupation of these forts, the Khâlsâ army advanced towards Peshawar. When Yaar Mohammad Khan the ruler learnt about it, he left Peshawar and absconded. The Maharaja occupied the city on 20th November 1818. He appointed Jahandad Khan as the ruler of Peshawar and returned to Attock. Soon after the departure of Maharaja Sahib for Attock, Yaar Mohammad Khan returned to Peshawar. He turned Jahandad Khan out and sent an ambassador to Maharaja Sahib with a request to appoint him as the ruler of Peshawar. He assured his loyalty to the Lahore Darbar and agreed to pay a revenue of one lakh rupees every year. Maharaja Sahib acceded to his request and appointed him as the ruler of Peshawar. In this battle, Maharaja Sahib collected 14 guns, many horses and substantial quantity of military hardware. It was a significant battle from many point of views. It arrested the unchecked and unhindered ingress of enemy from North-Western borders of India. In fact it brought the Indian forces at the door step of their erstwhile invaders. In the beginning of eleventh century, Mahmood Ghaznavi had defeated king Anang Pal of Punjab and plundered the state. Then started a long chain of invasions. Invaders would come one after the other, plunder the country, capture young girls and boys and take them to their country to be sold as slaves. Maharaja Sahib arrested this evil trend. He re-affirmed the Pathans that those who had always been considered lambs and driven to the slaughter house have turned lions now capable of making you lick dust. As the Indian people used to fear the invaders from North-West, the people of Kabul would fear the names of S. Hari Singh Nalwa and Akali Phoola Singh. The glorious outcome was that Khâlsâ army had managed to create impression of supremacy not by cruelty, tyranny or oppression but by their feats of valour. The Maharaja had issued strict instructions to his army not to plunder the city. No unarmed, weak or non-soldier will be harassed. This victory gave the Punjabis their much needed esteem and self-confidence.

Victory of Kashmir

Victory of Kashmir. Kashmir was still under the rule of Pathans. According to the policy adopted by the Maharaja, it was essential to remove the threat of Pathans from the neighbourhood and annexe the territory with Punjab. Otherwise the goad of the Pathans would stay on the head for ever. Jabbar Khan, the ruler of Kashmir was a cruel and an unkind person. He was very harsh on the Hindus. Even a common man was not too happy. His revenue Minister named Bir Dev fell out of his favour and came over to the refuge of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Maharaja Sahib was very kind by nature. He gave due honour to Bir Dev and acquired information about the internal affairs of the state and also of routes leading to the state. In 1819, the Maharaja started preparation for annexing Kashmir in his reign. The army was assembled at Wazirabad. It was divided in three columns. One column was placed under command of Missar Diwan Chand and S. Sham Singh Atari. The second was placed under Shahzada Kharak Singh while the third was held back as reserve under the Maharaja Sahib in order to render help to the column which may need. It would also protect the lines of communication that is essential for reaching the much needed supplies. The army as a whole was placed in the over all command of Maharaja Kharak Singh. The Sikh army attacked Rajouri. Its ruler Agar Khan ran away. His brother Rahimulla surrendered before Shahzada Kharak Singh, who sent him to Maharaja Sahib. As usual the Maharaja was magnanimous and appointed him the ruler of Rajouri. The Khâlsâ army now reached Behramgaley. The ruler of Supeen surrendered. Zabardast Khan the ruler of Poonch got ready to fight but surrendered himself not much later. The Khâlsâ army entered Kashmir crossing the hills. They were confronted with the Pathan army under the leadership of Jabbar Khan. The Khâlsâ army attacked. The stacato of guns, the flashing of swords, the rain of bullets and arrows and lion like roar of the Singhs created a fear of God in the minds of the Pathans who ran away from the battlefield. The army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh entered Srinagar on 4th July 1819 with great pomp and show. The soldiers were instructed not to cause any harm or inconvenience to the residents of Srinagar. The Sikh soldiers exhibited remarkable discipline. Diwan Moti Ram was appointed ruler of Kashmir. S. Sham Singh Atari, S. Jawala Singh Bharhania and Misar Diwan Chand stayed there to ensure restoration of orderliness in the administration and life of the people. Maharaja Sahib celebrated this victory with great pomp and show. He came to Sri Darbar Sahib Amritsar with much offerings to pay his obeisance. He distributed much wealth in charity to the poors. People of Amrtisar and Lahore lit arrays of oil lamps in their houses for three nights consecutively. Maharaja used to pay particular attention to the prosperity of Kashmir. He made special efforts to promote the handicraft of the state. The comforts and needs of the people were paid particular attention to. When he realised that the ruler was not very effective, he was removed and replaced with S. Hari Singh Nalwa. Kashmir was adversely hit by a famine in 1833. Maharaja Sahib sent thousands of mounds of grain to Kashmir.

Maharaja Sahib and British Government

Maharaja Sahib and British Government. We have seen that the British Government wanted to retain friendly relations with Maharaja Sahib. And for this reason they had signed a treaty at Amritsar in 1809. When Kanwar Kharak Singh got married in January 1812, Colonel David Octarloni brought gifts on behalf of the British Government. When the Maharaja fell ill during the summer of 1826, a British doctor had come for his treatment. On the other hand, Maharaja was also keen to maintain friendly relations with the Britishers. When in 1827, Lord Amherst, the Governor General had come to Shimla from Kolkatta, Maharaja sent precious gifts for him through Fakir Aziz-ud-Din and Diwan Moti Ram. Both of them were extended warm welcome and honour. Lord Amherst also resiprocated the gesture of the Maharaja Sahib with gifts. In 1831, the king of England sent five decent horses and a beautiful coach for Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The same year S. Hari Singh Nalwa, Fakir Aziz-ud-Din, Diwan Moti Ram, S. Dhanna Singh Malwaî, S. Ajit Singh Sandhawalia and S. Lehna Singh were sent to meet Lord Bentinck. They too were extended very warm and cordial welcome. One day Lord Bentinck was talking to Fakir Aziz-ud-Din. The Governor General asked, “Fakir Sahib! which eye is Maharaja Sahib blind of?” Fakir Aziz-ud-Din replied, “His face is so radiating and impressive that I have never dared look at him straight. So I am unable to tell you which eye is not functioning.” By the meeting of these leading personalities of Lahore Darbar, Lord Bentinck felt a keen desire to meet Maharaja Sahib. He sent his special emissary to him so that he could accept his visit. Maharaja agreed. The venue selected was at Ropar. Much preparations were made. The place was decorated at a lavish cost. Maharaja Sahib set out for Ropar from Lahore on 15th October. On 26th October, he went across river Satluj and met Lord Bentinck. Next day Lord Bentinck came to the Maharaja’s camp for a meeting. Both sides extended much respect to each other. By this meeting, Governor General wanted to tell the whole world that there was complete unity between the two sides.

Battle of Jamraud–Martyrdom of S. Hari Singh Nalwa

Strengthening of Border Areas

Strengthening of Border Areas. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had complete possession of Peshawar. Kanwar Nau Nihal Singh was the ruler of Peshawar. S. Hari Singh was the army commander and principle advisor of the ruler. It hurt Dost Mohammad Khan and other Pathans of the border area no end to see a Sikh ruler amongst their people and right under their nose. Feeling the ignominy and anguish, he had attacked Peshawar in 1835 and had to face humiliating defeat. S. Hari Singh had established the administration of the border area on a strong footing. He had also paid much attention to strengthen the defences and protection of the key places of military importance. He had decided to plug the Khyber pass which was the route of ingress of the foreigners. For doing so, he took possession of the fort of Jamrud which was right at the enterance of the Khyber pass. He strengthened the fort both with men and material. Sardar Mahan Singh was appointed the Garrison Commander of Jamraud. He also made many other forts. There was one named ‘Burj Hari Singh’ on road Peshawar and Jamraud. One fort was constructed on the bank of Barha Nadi. Michni fort was raised on river Kabul. The fort of Shankargarh was constructed to block the routes of Hasht Nagar, Bijaur and Gandhav. As a result of these chain of forts, peace reigned in this volatile Pathan territory. The influence of S. Hari Singh on the Pathans was indisputable. A good sized Sikh army was stationed in the border area. Peshawar had eight Platoons and about 15 guns.

Battle of Jamraud

Battle of Jamraud. Dost Mohammad Khan was ill at ease with himself seeing the perpetual progress of the Sikhs. He was now scared of losing his own kingdom. He felt that both Jalalabad and Kabul were well within their striking range. He was perturbed with these developments. So he prepared himself for a battle. In April 1837, Dost Mohammad Khan declared a ‘Jehad’ against Sikh Raj. He asked Pathans to join him in this campaign and extend all possible help. He sent a big army under his son’s command to launch an attack on Peshawar. Many Pathans joined this army. They crossed Khyber Pass and reached the fort of Jamraud. There were barely 800 soldiers in the fort under the command of S. Mahan Singh. S. Hari Singh was down with fever in Peshawar. Hearing the news that Hari Singh was not there, the Pathans became more unruly and disorderly. On 28th April 1837, they started shelling the walls of Jamraud fort. The shelling was replied by S. Mahan Singh appropriately checking further advance of the enemy. The shelling continued the next day too. They succeeded in raising down a part of the wall. They dare not go inside the fort since the Sikhs were defending it with their lives. The Sikhs managed to plug the breach during the night and at the same time sent the news to S. Hari Singh Ji. As soon as he received the letter, S. Hari Singh even in his state of ill health marched towards Jamraud at the head of ten thousand strong force. He reached there soon. The besieged Sikhs were very pleased. S. Hari Singh pounced upon the Pathans as a lion pounces upon its prey. A fierce battle raged for long till the Pathans withdrew leaving about 14 guns and much more military hardware. Sikhs chased the Pathans for a long distance. S. Nidhan Singh Panjhather went after them for a long pursuit. He ran into a fresh contingent of Pathans that was coming to the help of their main body. S. Nidhan Singh and his companions fell into their trap. S. Hari Singh came to their help. Some Pathans were hiding in an ambush near Khyber Pass. They let loose a volley of fire upon S. Hari Singh. S. Hari Singh was hit in the stomach and side of the stomach. The injured commander encircled the ambushing Pathans and killed them all. The continuous flow of blood from the wounds of S. Hari Singh was making him weak every minute. He was taken inside the fort, where his wounds were stitched. But he could not be saved. He died on 30th April 1837. A mighty pillar of Sikh Raj had fallen. The Sikhs kept the news of his death a secret till the Pathans withdrew from the scene of the battle badly mauled. When the Maharaja Sahib learnt about the martyrdom of his unique and beloved general, he was immensely sad. He shed some tears in grief. He regained his calm and set out for Peshawar at the head of a strong force. On reaching there, he paid his homage to the brave General and completed his incomplete work. After staying there for sometimes and restoring peace, Maharaja Sahib returned to Lahore.

Punjab became Masterless

Meeting with Lord Aukland

Meeting with Lord Aukland. When Governor General Lord Aukland came to Simla in 1838, Maharaja Sahib sent six leading Sardars in order to express his feelings of friendship and regards. Lord Aukland extended very warm and courteous welcome to them. Later on, Lord Aukland also sent five officials to the court of Maharaja who too were given honour and respect due to them according to the protocol. Soon after, both Lord Aukland and Maharaja Sahib met– first at Ferozepur and then at Amritsar. 

Battle of Afghanistan

Battle of Afghanistan. In order to stop Russia coming to Punjab via Afghanistan, the British Government wanted to keep Afghanistan under their control. They started establishing cordial relationship with Dost Mohammad Khan the ruler of Afghanistan. In return, he demanded Peshawar which was under the occupation of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The British Government did not want to spoil their relationship with Maharaja Ranjit Singh. So no accord could be arrived at with Dost Mohammad Khan since his conditions were not viable. Therefore, the British Government decided to dethrone Dost Mohammad Khan and appoint Shah Shujah as the king of Kabul. They needed help of the Maharaja Sahib in achieving this objective. When they asked for help, Maharaja Sahib agreed on the condition that Shah Shujah will not demand area around Peshawar which was then under the occupation of Sikh-Raj. Maharaja Sahib sent a strong army under the command of Kanwar Nau Nihal Singh. Dost Mohammad Khan could not face the onslaught of combined force of Sikhs and British Rule. So, they enthroned Shah Shujah as the ruler of Kabul.

End of the Lion of Punjab

End of the Lion of Punjab. In May 1839, Maharaja Sahib suffered a stroke of paralysis. Many doctors and medical practitioners from Lahore and Amritsar tried their best to cure him. The British Government also sent an expert doctor but to no avail. His disease kept increasing making his body weak. Sensing his time to be near, he held one last Darbar in Hazoori Bagh where all his ministers, Sardars, warriors, military commanders and close relatives were summoned. He himself came in a palanquin even in his grave state of health. The brave lion of Punjab who had caused much fear in the minds of his foes and earned love and affection of his people was lying helpless in a palanquin. Seeing his pathetic state, his courtiers could not help wailing and crying.