Early Ghaznavid Dynasty

• Alaptain died in 963 AD.
• Succession of Rulers: 1. Abul Ishg 2. Bilaktgin 3. Pritgin: Carried out the first attack against India, but it was unsuccessful.
• Sabuktgin: Became Sultan in 977 AD and officially started the Ghaznavid Dynasty.
  • He was the son-in-law of Alaptgin.
  • He held the title Amir-ul-umra.

Campaigns of Sabuktgin

Mahmud of Ghazni

Mahmud of Ghazni became Sultan in 997 AD. He conducted his first invasion of India in 1001 AD. Overall, he undertook a total of 17 raids, with his 4th being on kangra and 16th being the famous attack on the Somnath Temple.

The Hindushahi Conflict & Kangra Fort

• Battle of Chach (1008–09 AD): Anand Pal of the Hindushahis fought against Mahmud Ghazni. Kangra King Jagdish Chand helped Anand Pal during this battle.Anand pal lost battle because his elephant fled.
• Attack on Kangra Fort: Mahmud attacked Kangra because the royal treasury of the Hindushahis was stored there.
  • Mahmud entered the fort alongside the ruler of Juzjan, Hasar Ahmad Bin Muhammad Farguni .
  • He deputed commanders Abu Asightgin and Altutmish to take charge of the invaluable treasury.
  • Prof. J.R. Sharma’s Remark : “With the plunder of the ancient temple of Nagarkot (Kangra) in 1008 A.D. the tiger tasted human blood.”
• Which Temple was Plundered?
  • Historians debate the exact location of the specific temple mentioned in the chronicles:
  • View 1 (Inside the Fort): Some opine that the temple plundered was situated within the fort itself.
  • View 2 (The Bhawan): It is argued it was the famous temple of Devi in Bhawan (outside the fort). However, the plunder of the Bhawan is not ruled out, especially since it was situated quite near the fort and was likely undefended.
• Literary Source: The historian Utbi refers to Nagarkot (Kangra) as Bhimnagar in his work, the Tarikh-i-Yamini.
• Fall of the Hindushahis: In 1026 AD, Hindu Shahi rulers Trilochan Pal and his son Bhim Pal were killed, marking the definitive end of the Hindu Shahi Kingdom.
• Mahmud of Ghazni died in 1030 AD.

Later Kangra Fort Conflicts & Rajput Migration

Following Mahmud’s death, control over the Kangra Fort fluctuated heavily between local powers and Ghaznavid descendants.

Rajput Relations & Migrations

• Tomar-Kangra Relations: Anang Pal of the Delhi Tomars maintained friendly relations with Kangra and its mountain chiefs. (Source: Chand Bardai’s “Prithvi Raj Raso”).
• 12th Century Migration: Severe instability in the plains led various Rajput clans to migrate toward the safety of the hills.

Tughlaq Dynasty

• Initial Fame: The Kangra fort became famous among the “Mohammedan rulers of Lahore and Delhi” after Mahmud Ghazani captured significant booty from it.

Mohammed Tughlaq (A.D. 1325-1351)

• Kangra Ruler: Prithvi Chandra.
• Claimed Event: Mohammed Tughlaq is said to have invaded and captured the Kangra fort.
• Historical Dispute:
  • Contradiction: Historians Ferishta and Barni (in his Tarikh-i-Firozshahi) make no reference to this invasion.
  • Supporting Source: The narration of Badari Chacha states the siege took place in A.D. 1337.
  • Context of 1337: This was the same year as the Sultan’s “so called invasion of China (Quarachi)”.
  • Probable Nature: Badari Chacha was not with the army. The text suggests it was likely only a “short duration” incursion into the outer Himalayas, and a detachment may have reached Kangra due to its fame.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq(1351-88)

The Pretext

• Ruler: Rup Chand of Kangra (1360–1375) conducted plundering raids up to Delhi, provoking Firoz Shah Tughlaq. (Note: Rup Chand was previously defeated and looted by Kashmir’s Sultan Shahabuddin during a similar raid).

The Siege & Surrender (1361 or 1365 A.D.)

• The Siege: Lasted six months at Nagarkot.
• The Truce: Rup Chand surrendered and apologized. Firoz Shah pardoned him, exchanged royal gifts (robes, umbrellas, horses), and restored his rule.
• The Garrison Myth: Despite Cunningham’s claims, multiple historical texts confirm Nagarkot was never occupied or garrisoned by Muslim armies until Jahangir’s reign.

Cultural Impact

• Jwalamukhi Library: Firoz Shah discovered 1,300 Hindu texts. He commissioned Izzudin Khalid Khani to translate one into Persian, titled Dalayil-i-Firoz Shahi.
• Historical Confusion: Ferishta incorrectly claimed Nagarkot was renamed ‘Mohammedabad’ and confused the Nagarkot and Jwalamukhi deities. Locals also spread lore that the local idol was Alexander the Great’s wife, Nowshaba.

Sirmur Expedition

• Aided by a now-allied Rup Chand, Firoz Shah subsequently attacked Sirmur (then ruled by Bhagat Prakash).

Nasir-ud-Din (The Fugitive Prince)

• The Escape: Firoz Shah Tughlaq’s eldest son, fleeing his usurping cousins, retreated from Sirmaur to Nagarkot (Kangra).
• Rajput Asylum: Kangra Ruler Sangara Chand granted him refuge, honoring the strict Rajput tradition of protecting anyone seeking asylum, even a fallen enemy.
• The Return: He lived safely at Nagarkot until late 1389 A.D. He was then recalled to Delhi and ascended the throne in August 1390 A.D. as Mohammed Tughlaq.

Mahmud Nasir-uddin (The Last Tughlaq Ruler)

• Reign: 1395–1413 A.D.
• Timur’s Invasion (1398 A.D.): The Mongol ruler Timur delivered the decisive blow that sealed the dynasty’s fate. Mahmud Nasir-uddin fled the city.
• The Devastation: Timur captured and plundered Delhi for 15 days, destroying temples, killing thousands, and retreating to Samarkand with massive wealth.
• The Final End: Mahmud Nasir-uddin eventually returned to reoccupy Delhi, ruling until 1413 A.D., which marked the absolute end of the Tughlaq dynasty.

Timur’s Shivalik Hills Campaign (1398–99 A.D.)

• Primary Source: Timur’s memoirs, the Malfuzat-i-Timuri.
• Kangra Ruler: Raja Megh Chand (ascended in 1390 A.D.).

The Invasion Route (1399 A.D. Return Journey)

• Timur advanced from Haridwar along the hill outskirts toward Jammu.
• Key Actions:
  • Invaded the Kiarda-dun valley (Sirmaur).
  • Stormed eight forts (though texts do not explicitly include Kangra among them).
  • Reached Nurpur (then known as Dhameri or Dhamal).
  • Crossed the Ravi river near Pathankot and captured the Jammu Raja via stratagem.

The Failed Nagarkot Plan

• While camped at Dasuha (near Hoshiarpur), Timur resolved to conquer Nagarkot (Kangra).
• Outcome: He was forced to abandon the campaign entirely due to the exceptionally difficult mountain terrain.

Interactions with Local Rulers

• Raja Alam Chand of Hindur/Nalagarh (1356–1406 A.D.): Supplied Timur with provisions, successfully sparing his state from attack or destruction.
• Rattan Singh: Opposed Timur’s march (likely ruling an area between Kangra, Hoshiarpur, or Sirmaur).

Sayyid Dynasty (r. 1414–1451 AD):

• Relationship was “purely nominal” due to intense power struggles in Delhi.
• Raja Sansar Chand Katoch (I) is recorded as a nominal tributary of Mohammed Shah.

Lodhi Dynasty (r. 1451–1526 AD):

• Sikander Lodhi: Attacked Nagarkot during the reign of Pragya Chand.
• Mandi Campaign: Attacked Mandi during the reign of Dilawar Sen.
• Legacy: The Sikander Dhar in Hamirpur is named after his military movements.

Mughal Emperors and Contemporary Hill Rulers

Akbar

• Kangra: Dharam Chand, Jai Chand, Bidhi Chand
• Chamba: Pratap Singh Varman
• Nurpur: Raja Basu

Jahangir

• Kangra: Trilok Chand, Hari Chand II
• Nurpur: Raja Basu, Suraj Mal, Jagat Singh
• Kullu: Became tributary
• Bilaspur: Became tributary

Shah Jahan

• Nurpur: Jagat Singh
• Sirmaur: Karam Prakash
• Chamba: Prithvi Singh

Aurangzeb

• Chamba: Prithvi Singh
• Sirmaur: Subhag Prakash, Budh Prakash, Medini Prakash
• Bushahr: Kehri Singh
• Nurpur: Mandhata Prakash
• Bilaspur: Bhim Chand

🏔️ Hill Rulers and Contemporary Mughal Emperors

Kangra

• Dharam Chand, Jai Chand, Bidhi Chand: Contemporary of Akbar
• Trilok Chand, Hari Chand II: Contemporary of Jahangir

Chamba

• Pratap Singh Varman: Contemporary of Akbar
• Prithvi Singh: Contemporary of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb

Nurpur

• Raja Basu: Contemporary of Akbar and Jahangir
• Suraj Mal, Jagat Singh: Contemporary of Jahangir
• (Jagat Singh): Contemporary of Shah Jahan
• Mandhata Prakash: Contemporary of Aurangzeb

Sirmaur

• Karam Prakash: Contemporary of Shah Jahan
• Subhag Prakash, Budh Prakash, Medini Prakash: Contemporary of Aurangzeb

Bilaspur (Kahlur)

• Became tributary: During Jahangir’s reign
• Bhim Chand: Contemporary of Aurangzeb

Kullu

• Became tributary: During Jahangir’s reign

Bushahr

• Kehri Singh: Contemporary of Aurangzeb

Mughal Kiledars (Governors) of Kangra Fort

Under Jahangir

• Nawab Ali Khan (Appointed as the first Mughal Kiledar)
• Humrat Khan

Under Shah Jahan

• Nawab Asadullah Khan
• Koch Quli Khan

Under Aurangzeb

• Sayyid Hussain Khan
• Hasan Abdullah Khan Pathan
• Nawab Sayyid Khalil Ullah Khan

Later Mughals

• Nawab Saif Ali Khan (The last Mughal Kiledar, served 1740–1783)

mughal policy for hill states :

kangra hill states interactions with mughals evolved from cautious cooperation to outright conquest , reflecting shifting imperial policies and frontier realities .: there were tribute system and not full annexation. there was stout fortification . hostage diplomacy : balancing coercion with recognition of KANGRA political diplomacy … strategic pragmatism and proxy warfare : utilizing hill allies like raja jagat Singh of nurpur + exploited local rivalries …. focused on territorial buffering

CHAMBA AND MUGHALS

Ganesh Varman (1512–1559)

• Contemporary Emperors: Babur, Humayun, Akbar
• Key Event: Mughal influence started during his reign.

Pratap Singh Varman (1559–1589)

• Contemporary Emperor: Akbar
• Political Status: Chamba became a tributary of the Mughals.
• Territorial Loss: Riklu, Chari, and Giroh were captured from Chamba by mughals .
• Mughal Relations: Remained loyal to the Mughals.
• Key Event: Suraj Mal of Nurpur took refuge in Chamba and eventually died. Pratap Singh Varman handed his property to the Mughals.

Balbhadra (1589–1613)

• Contemporary Emperors: Akbar, Jahangir

Janardhan & Brother Bishambhar (1613–1623)

• Contemporary Emperor: Jahangir
• Major Conflict: Battle of Dhalog (1623) – Janardhan (Chamba) v/s Jagat Singh (Nurpur). (Jagat Singh was brother of Suraj mal of Nurpur.)
• Outcome: The Mughals helped Jagat Singh of Nurpur.

Jagat Singh of Nurpur (1623–1641)

• (Interim period of control of CHAMBA by nurpur ).

Prithvi Singh (1641–1664)

• Contemporary Emperors: Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb
• The Nurpur Revolt:
  • Jagat Singh revolted against the Mughals.
  • Shah Jahan sent Murad Bakhsh for suppression.
  • Prithvi Singh considered it the best time to regain his throne. He asked for the help of the Raja of Mandi and Suket to enter Lahaul and Pangi via Rohtang.
  • Jagat Singh’s Taragarh fort was seized, but he was pardoned.
  • Mughal Resolution: Prithvi Singh finally captured his capital.Chamba was restored to Prithvi Singh.
• Mughal Relations & Rewards:
  • Visited the Mughal darbar 9 times.
  • Granted the Jagir of Jaswan permanently.
  • He was favored in a dispute with Sangram Pal (Raja of Basholi) over the region of Bhalai.

Chattar Singh (1664–Onwards)

• Contemporary Emperor: Aurangzeb
• Rebellion: Refused to obey the royal order regarding the demolition of temples.
• Mughal Attack: Faced an attack by Mughals under Mirza Obed Beg.
• The Confederacy: He formed a confederacy with Basholi, Guler, and Jammu.
• Victory: Together, they defeated the Mughals and recaptured the annexed territories by Mughals.

MUGHALS AND HILL STATES (KANGRA & SUR DYNASTY)

BABUR (1525)

• Strategic Outposts: Babur established his outposts at Lahore and Sialkot.
• Route: From there he came to Delhi via Malout (Kangra).
• Capture of Daulat Khan: Due to fear of Babur, Daulat Khan (Punjab Governor) and his son Ghazi Khan took refuge in forests near Kangra. Babur captured them.
• Kangra Relations: Babur did not encounter the Raja of Kangra directly but travelled via Kangra.

SHER SHAH SUR

• Subjugation Campaign: Sent his general Khawas Khan to Kangra Hills for subjugation.
• Administration: Hamid Khan Kakar was made incharge.
• Status of Kangra Fort: There is no mention that Kangra fort was conquered. Probably some regions under Kangra were captured.

SIKANDER SHAH SUR & EARLY AKBAR CONFLICTS (1556–1557)

• Defeat & Flight (1556): Punjab governor Sikander Shah Sur (nephew) was defeated by Mughals at Sirhind. He fled to Nurpur (Dhameri) and Kangra.
• Historical Source: Rizakulla – Waqiat-i-Mushtaqi.
• Alliances: Sikander Shah (Sur) and Bhakt Mal (Nurpur) were friends.
• Akbar’s Pursuit: Akbar had a camp at Nurpur in order to capture Sikander Shah.
• Invasion & Siege of Maukot (1557): Sikander Shah invaded Punjab. Akbar came to fight. Sikander Shah took refuge in a fort between Pathankot & Nurpur. This Maukot fort was built by Salim Shah Sur (son of Sher Shah). Akbar besieged the fort for 6 months.
• Surrender & Aftermath: Due to food scarcity, Sikander Shah asked for surrender. He gave his son as a hostage. Sikander Shah retired to Bengal province (was given Jagir of Bihar and Kharid) and died 2 years later.
• Execution of Bhakt Mal: Bhakt Mal was executed by Bairam Khan at Maukot.

AKBAR AND KANGRA RELATIONS

• Akbar’s Kangra Plan: Akbar was the 1st to plan the conquest of Kangra fort (not conquer). (Note: Some sources like Tabaqat-i-Nasiri say he captured it, but there is contradiction).
• Dharam Chand: Helped Akbar. He was probably the first one to tender his allegiance to Akbar. He was old, so may be he sent someone else.
• Hostage Policy: Akbar initiated the practice of sending a hostage (son/relative) to the Mughal court to ensure fidelity. (Proof: 22 young Princes from Hill states) .
• Manikya Chand: Maintained normal relations with Akbar.
• Jai Chand (1570): Became King in 1570. Akbar sent an order for his arrest and sent Ram Chand of Guler. Jai Chand was captured and put in jail in Delhi.
• Bidhi Chand (1572–1585): Considered his father dead, became King, and revolted in 1572. Died as King in 1585.

AKBAR AND THE HILL STATES

EARLY CAMPAIGNS AND SIKANDER SHAH SUR (1556–1557)

• Punjab governor Sikander Shah Sur was defeated by the Mughals at Sirhind and fled to Nurpur (Dhameri) and Kangra.
• Akbar established a camp at Nurpur in order to capture Sikander Shah.
• In 1557, Sikander Shah invaded Punjab, prompting Akbar to come fight him.
• Sikander Shah took refuge in the Maukot fort (built by Salim Shah Sur).
• Akbar besieged the Maukot fort for 6 months, leading to food scarcity.
• Sikander Shah surrendered, gave his son as a hostage, and retired to the Bengal province where he died 2 years later.
• During this campaign, Bhakt Mal of Nurpur was executed by Bairam Khan at Maukot.

AKBAR AND CHAMBA RELATIONS

• Ganesh Varman (1512): Mughal influence in Chamba started during his reign, making him a contemporary of Babur, Humayun, and Akbar.
• Pratap Singh Varman (1559): A contemporary of Akbar, under whom Chamba became a tributary of the Mughals.
• Riklu, Chari, and Guroh were captured from Chamba.
• Pratap Singh Varman remained loyal to the Mughals.
• When Suraj Mal of Nurpur took refuge in Chamba and died, Pratap Singh Varman handed his property to the Mughals.
• Balbhadra (1589): Remained a contemporary of both Akbar and Jahangir.

AKBAR AND KANGRA RELATIONS

• Akbar was the first to plan the conquest of the Kangra fort, though he did not fully conquer it.
• Dharam Chand of Kangra helped Akbar and was likely the first to tender allegiance.
• Akbar initiated the practice of sending a hostage (a son or relative) to the Mughal court to ensure fidelity, evidenced by 22 young princes from the Hill states acting as hostages.
• Manikya Chand maintained normal relations with Akbar.
• Jai Chand (1570): After becoming king, Akbar sent an order for his arrest, dispatching Ram Chand of Guler. Jai Chand was captured and jailed in Delhi.
• Bidhi Chand: Considering his father (Jai Chand) dead, he became king and revolted in 1572.

THE FOUR MAJOR REVOLTS DURING AKBAR’S REIGN

1. The First Revolt (1572)

• Triggered when Akbar gave the Kangra Jagir to Birbal.
• Bidhi Chand revolted with the help of Gopi Chand/Gobind Chand of Jaswan.
• Akbar sent Khan Jahan Hussain Quli Khan (Viceroy of Punjab) via Pathankot and Nurpur, as Nurpur was considered a friend.
• The Mughals captured Kotla Fort and returned it to Guler, as it had been previously captured by Dharam Chand and Jai Chand.
• The campaign was cut short due to news that Ibrahim Hussain Mirza and Masud Mirza (Akbar’s relatives) had invaded Punjab.
• Khan Jahan took 5 maunds of gold and left without capturing the Kangra fort (Source: Tabaqat-i-Akbari).
• The Nagarkot Temple was plundered during this time (Source: Maasir-ul-Umara & Akbar-namah).

2. The Second Revolt (1588–1589)

• Following Jai Chand’s death, Bidhi Chand formally became king and led another rebellion.
• He was helped by Raja Basu (son of Takht Mal) of Nurpur.
• Akbar sent Zain Khan Koka (his foster brother) in the 35th year of his reign.
• Zain Khan Koka defeated the rebels; 13 Hill chiefs surrendered and were brought to Akbar’s court.
• Akbar returned their territories but kept Trilok Chand (Bidhi Chand’s son) as a hostage.

3. The Third Revolt (1594–1595)

• Led by Rai Bhadur Buzaka, the Raja of Jasrota.
• Bidhi Chand of Kangra and Raja Basu of Nurpur did not participate because Trilok Chand was held as a hostage.
• Akbar suppressed the revolt by sending Mirza Rustam Qandhari via Pathankot and Sheikh Farid from Jammu.

4. The Fourth Revolt (1602–1604)

• Raja Basu of Nurpur revolted.
• Akbar sent Madhu Singh Kushwaha to handle the rebellion.
• Madhu Singh retreated, and Raja Basu ultimately retained his Mansab of 1500.

REVENUE SETTLEMENT AND CONCLUSION

• Revenue Report (1582): Todar Mal created a report on the revenue of 66 villages, which included the territory of Rihlu in Chamba.
• Abandoned Visit: In 1582, Akbar traveled to Dasuha (near Hoshiarpur) and decided to visit the Nagarkot Temple, but ultimately abandoned the plan.
• End of Era: In total, there were 4 major revolts against Akbar in the hills. Both Akbar and Bidhi Chand died in 1605.

jahangir

Trilok Chand (1605–1612 A.D.)

• Accession: 1605 A.D. (Coincided with Jahangir’s coronation).
• Hostage History: Raised at the Delhi court as a royal hostage.
• The Parrot Legend: Local lore claims Jahangir held a grudge after Trilok Chand refused to give him his parrot; this personal enmity allegedly fueled Jahangir’s later invasion of Kangra.

HARI CHAND-II (A.D. 1612)

I. First Expedition (1615 A.D.)

• Commanders: Murtaza Khan (Shaikh Farid) and Raja Suraj Mal (son of Raja Basu of Nurpur).
• Internal Discord: Murtaza Khan grew suspicious of Suraj Mal’s loyalty and petitioned for his recall.
• Murtaza’s Death: Shortly after Suraj Mal left, Murtaza Khan fell ill and died at Pathankot.

II. Second Expedition (1616 A.D.)

• Commander: Raja Man (Rajput Chief of Amber/Jaipur)
• Death: Ambushed and killed by Zamindar Sangram while pursuing him into the hills.

III. Third Expedition & Revolt (Suraj Mal)

• Command: Suraj Mal returned from the Deccan and was sent with Shah Quli Khan Mohammed Taqi (the Bakshi) to annex Kangra.
• Sabotage: Suraj Mal intentionally delayed the siege and conspired to have the Bakshi recalled to gain a “free hand.”
• Rebellion: Once in control, he broke into open revolt and ravaged the Jagir of Itimad-ul-daulah (Noor Jahan’s father).
• Defeat: Shah Jahan dispatched Sundar Das (Rai Raiyan/Raja Bikramjit) to suppress him. Suraj Mal was defeated and took refuge in Maukot, then moved to Nurpur, and finally Chamba. and died in 1619 A.D.

IV. Fall of Kangra Fort (1620 A.D.)

• Resumption: Siege restarted 5th September 1619 by Rai Raiyan and Jagat Singh (younger brother of Suraj Mal, summoned from Bengal).
• Capture: Fort was finally subdued in November 1620.
• 1st Mughal Governor: Nawab Ali Khan (First Kiladar). Mughal control remained until 1783 A.D.

Chamba Related Facts

• Refuge: Suraj Mal and his brother Madhu Singh took refuge in Chamba under Raja Bala Bhadra.
• Fort Kotila (Kotla): Located between Kangra and Nurpur; captured by Rai Raiyan in 3 days from Madhu Singh.
• Imperial Dictate: Raja Bala Bhadra was forced to return all looted assets and surrender Madhu Singh; later forgiven via imperial farman.
• Succession Conflict: Bala Bhadra’s sons, Janardan and Bishambar, were killed the following year in a war against Jagat Singh of Nurpur.

Jahangir’s Visit (January 1622 A.D.)

• Route: Entered via Siba and Guler; returned via Nurpur and Pathankot.
• Palace: Fascinated by the valley, he ordered a palace at ‘Mauza Gargari’, but only the foundation was laid.
• Historical Status: Jahangir was the first Mughal ruler to bring the fort under direct imperial control.

RELEVANT MUGHAL AND HILL STATE RELATIONS (1628–1787)

I. The Reign of Shah Jahan (1628–1658)

• Chander Bhan Chand of KANGRA attempted to capture the Nagarkot Fort and was subsequently imprisoned in Delhi.

II. The Era of Aurangzeb & Early Rebellions

• Vijai Ram’s Revolt: Vijai Ram ofkangra attempted an unsuccessful revolt against the Mughals.
• Foundation of Bijapur: Following the failed revolt, he founded Bijapur. This location served as the residence of the Raja until the time of Ghamand Chand, deliberately chosen to reduce interference and contact with the Mughals.
• Udai Ram Chand’s Loyalty (1687): His brother, Udai Ram Chand, ascended the throne in 1687 and demonstrated loyalty to the Mughal Empire.
• Imperial Rewards: In recognition of his loyalty, Udai Ram Chand was granted the Jagir of Rajgir and the Taluqas of Nadaun, Palam, Mahal Sarai, Jaisukh, and Malhar.
• Succession (1690): Udai Ram Chand had two sons: Bhim Chand (the elder) and Kirpal Chand (the younger). Bhim Chand was made King.

III. Causes Leading to the Battle of Nadaun

• Financial Strain: By the end of 1687, Aurangzeb’s military campaigns in Bijapur and Golconda caused a significant decline in the royal treasury.
• Tribute Default: Concurrently, Hill State Rulers defaulted on their tribute payments for three consecutive years by 1690.
• Mughal Demands: Aurangzeb ordered Azim Khan, the Governor of Punjab, to extract the pending tribute from the Hill Rulers.
• Delegation of Extraction: Azim Khan delegated this to Mian Khan (Viceroy of Jammu) for the Jammu region, and Alif Khan for the Kangra region.
• Strategic Advice: Alif Khan met with Kirpal Chand. Kirpal Chand and Raja Dayal Chand of Bijarwah advised Alif Khan to first demand tribute from Bhim Chand of Kahlur (Bilaspur). They reasoned that if Bhim Chand, the most powerful ruler, paid, the other hill rulers would follow suit.
• The Refusal: Alif Khan demanded the tribute, but Bhim Chand of Kahlur refused.

IV. The Battle of Nadaun (1691)

• The Conflict: This refusal culminated in the Battle of Nadaun between Bhim Chand of Kahlur and Alif Khan of the Mughals.
• Mughal Allies: Alif Khan was supported by Bhim Chand / Kirpal Chand of Nagarkot (Kangra) and Dayal Chand of Bijarwah.
• Hill State Allies: Bhim Chand of Kahlur was supported by Raj Singh, Ram Singh, Sukhdev Gaje of Jasrota, Prithi Chand of Datarpur, and Guru Gobind Singh.
• Outcome: Bhim Chand of Kahlur emerged victorious. This is documented in the Bachitra Natak written by Guru Gobind Singh.
• Historical Memorial: Maharaja Ranjit Singh later built a gurudwara where Guru Gobind Singh lived in his tent during the battle. It is known as Gurudwara Dasvin Padshahi and was affiliated with the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee in 1935.

V. Post-Aurangzeb Developments (1707–1787)

• Mughal Control (1707): Following Aurangzeb’s death, efficient Mughal governors of Punjab—such as Zakariya, Mir Mannu, and Adina Beg—helped retain control over Kangra. The Qiledars of Kangra fort also maintained control over the stronghold.
• Afghan Invasions (1758): Ahmad Shah Abdali attacked the region and subsequently appointed Adina Beg.
• Rise of Ghamand Chand (1759): Ahmad Shah Abdali appointed Ghamand Chand as the Punjab governor/viceroy. While Ghamand Chand regained his territories, the Kangra Fort remained under the control of Mughal Qiledar Saif Ali Khan.
• Fall of the Kangra Fort (1783): After Saif Ali Khan died, his son Jiwan Khan became the Qiledar. Jai Singh Kanhaiya bribed Jiwan Khan and captured the Kangra Fort.
• Recapture (1787): Sansar Chand successfully recaptured the Kangra Fort.

Mughal-Sirmur Relations: A History of Loyalty

The relationship between Sirmur and the Mughals was largely one of consistent loyalty, with the Sirmur Rajas often acting as trusted allies in the hill region, which contrasted with the rebellious nature of other states like Nurpur or Kangra.

1. Jahangir’s Reign (c. 1605-1627)

• Contemporary: Raja Karam Prakash (c. 1616-1630).
• Key Event: The most significant event of this period was Raja Karam Prakash founding the new capital of Nahan in 1621, moving it from Kalsi. Sirmur was a firm tributary state under Jahangir.

2. Shah Jahan’s Reign (c. 1628-1658)

• Contemporary: Raja Mandhata Prakash (c. 1630-1654).
• Key Event: Mandhata Prakash was a powerful and loyal vassal of Shah Jahan.
• Assistance against Garhwal: He actively assisted the Mughal forces in their campaigns against the Raja of Garhwal (Srinagar). For his military service, he was rewarded by Shah Jahan, who granted him territory and confirmed his authority.

3. Aurangzeb’s Reign (c. 1658-1707)

This long reign saw several Sirmur rulers, with the relationship evolving from loyal service to eventual strain.

• Contemporary 1: Raja Subhag Prakash (c. 1654-1664)
  • Role in War of Succession: He proved his loyalty to Aurangzeb during the critical Mughal War of Succession.
  • Intercepting Letters: When Dara Shikoh’s son, Sulaiman Shikoh, took refuge in Garhwal, Subhag Prakash intercepted the correspondence between Sulaiman and his father. He forwarded these letters to Aurangzeb, confirming Garhwal’s actions and cementing his own position.
  • Mughal Recognition: For this loyalty, Aurangzeb issued a firman (royal decree) around 1659, recognizing Subhag Prakash and rewarding him with territories like Kotaha. (Your note incorrectly attributed this recognition to “Budhi Prakash”).
• Contemporary 2: Raja Budh Prakash (c. 1664-1684)
  • He continued the policy of loyalty and maintained good relations with the Mughal court.
• Contemporary 3: Raja Medini Prakash (c. 1684-1704)
  • Invitation to Guru Gobind Singh: The most significant event of his reign was his invitation to Guru Gobind Singh in 1685. The Guru, facing hostility from other hill rajas (like Bhim Chand of Kahlur), relocated to Sirmur and established Paonta Sahib on the banks of the Yamuna.
  • Battle of Bhangani (1686): Medini Prakash supported the Guru by not joining the coalition of other hill rajas who attacked the Guru at Bhangani.
  • Conflict with Mughals: This alliance with Guru Gobind Singh, who was viewed with increasing suspicion by Aurangzeb, caused a major strain in Sirmur’s relationship with the Mughal Empire. It marked a departure from Sirmur’s unconditional loyalty.

sirmaur relationship with mughals demonstrate how strategic accomodations , economic innovation and diplomatic skill could transform potential subjugation into mutually beneficial partnership

This relationship was one of the most rebellious and volatile of all the Kangra hill states.

⚔️ Mughal-Nurpur Relations: A History of Rebellion

1. Akbar’s Reign (1556-1605)

• Raja Bhakta Mal (c. 1550s):
  • He was an ally of the Sur dynasty (Sikandar Sur), the primary enemy of the early Mughals.
  • Bhakta Mal fought alongside Sikandar Sur when he was besieged by Akbar’s forces at the Fort of Mankot. After their defeat (c. 1557), Bhakta Mal was arrested, taken to Lahore, and later executed, establishing an early foundation of hostility.
• Raja Basu (c. 1580-1613):
  • As a contemporary of Akbar, Raja Basu (Bhakta Mal’s successor) was a famously unreliable vassal.
  • He accepted Mughal suzerainty but was known for his “turbulent” nature, joining several “dubious” revolts.
  • He openly rebelled against Akbar on multiple occasions (at least three times). Each time, Akbar sent imperial forces to subdue him, and each time, Basu would retreat to the hills, later apologize, and be reinstated, only to rebel again.

2. Jahangir’s Reign (1605-1627)

• Raja Suraj Mal (1613-1618):
  • He was the son of Raja Basu. Initially, Jahangir favored him and tasked him with the important Mughal campaign to capture Kangra Fort.
  • However, Suraj Mal mismanaged the campaign, quarreled with other Mughal generals, and then openly revolted against Jahangir (c. 1618).
• Raja Jagat Singh (1618-1646):
  • He was Suraj Mal’s brother. Jagat Singh remained loyal to Jahangir and actively helped the Mughals hunt down his rebellious brother.
  • For this loyalty, Jahangir appointed Jagat Singh as the Raja of Nurpur after Suraj Mal was defeated and fled (dying in exile in Chamba).
  • Battle of Dhalog (1623): As a loyal Mughal commander, Jagat Singh (with Mughal support) invaded Chamba to punish its rulers for having given refuge to his brother, Suraj Mal.

3. Shah Jahan’s Reign (1628-1658)

• Raja Jagat Singh (continued):
  • For the first 13 years of Shah Jahan’s reign, Jagat Singh was one of the most trusted and celebrated generals in the Mughal Empire. He served in many difficult campaigns, including in Bangash (Afghanistan).
• The Great Revolt of Jagat Singh (1641-1642):
  • At the height of his power, Jagat Singh, along with his son Rajrup Singh, turned against his master and revolted against Shah Jahan.
  • This was a massive rebellion. Shah Jahan sent a huge imperial army (led by his son Prince Murad Bakhsh) to crush him.
  • Jagat Singh fought fiercely from his strongholds of Maukot, Nurpur, and Taragarh, but was ultimately defeated after a long siege.
  • Clemency: After his defeat, Jagat Singh asked Shah Jahan for clemency. Given his decades of loyal service before the revolt, Shah Jahan pardoned him in 1642. He was restored to his rank and died a few years later (1646) while back in Mughal service.

Mughal-Guler Relations: A Pragmatic Alliance

1. Akbar’s Reign (1556-1605)

• Contemporary: Raja Ram Chand (c. 1540-1570)
• Key Event (Alliance against Kangra): Raja Ram Chand of Guler was a loyal ally to Akbar. When Raja Jai Chand of Kangra was captured by the Mughals, his son Bidhi Chand revolted.
• During this conflict (c. 1572), Raja Jai Chand (or his forces) had forcibly occupied the Kotla fort from Guler. Akbar’s imperial army, with the help of Raja Ram Chand, besieged and recaptured the fort. As a reward for his loyalty, Akbar restored the Kotla fort to Raja Ram Chand of Guler.

2. Jahangir’s Reign (1605-1627)

• Contemporary: Raja Rup Chand (c. 1610-1635)
• Key Event (Loyal Military Service): Raja Rup Chand was a trusted friend and military commander for Emperor Jahangir.
• He played a crucial role in the successful Mughal siege of Kangra Fort (1620). For his distinguished service in this campaign, Jahangir conferred upon him the title of “Bahadur” (Brave).

3. Shah Jahan’s Reign (1628-1658)

• Contemporary: Raja Man Singh (c. 1635-1661)
• Key Event (Continued Loyalty): Man Singh continued his father’s legacy of loyal service. He was highly admired by Shah Jahan for his valor and skill in battle.
• He served as a distinguished commander in Mughal campaigns in the northwest, including in Afghanistan. Impressed by his courage, Shah Jahan gave him the title of “Sher Afghan” (Lion of the Afghans).

4. Aurangzeb’s Reign (1658-1707)

• Contemporary: Raja Raj Singh (c. 1675-1695)
• Key Event (Defiance and Alliance): This period marks a significant break from Guler’s tradition of loyalty. When Emperor Aurangzeb issued orders for the demolition of Hindu temples, it sparked widespread resentment.
• Raja Chattar Singh of Chamba famously defied this order. In response, Raja Raj Singh of Guler joined a military confederacy with Chamba, Basholi, and Jammu.
• This alliance of hill states openly fought against the Mughal forces (led by the Mughal governor) and defeated them, forcing their retreat.

5. Later Mughal Period (Post-Aurangzeb)

• Contemporary: Raja Govardhan Singh (c. 1741-1773)
• Key Event (Conflict in a Weakening Empire): Raja Govardhan Singh’s reign took place when the Mughal Empire was rapidly disintegrating.
• His conflicts were not with a strong central emperor but with the weakening Mughal authority and its regional governors, as he sought to assert Guler’s independence during the empire’s collapse. This period also saw the rise of Guler as a major center for Pahari painting.