Humayun (1530-1540 & 1555-1556)
Humayun, a cultured and learned person, was not a
soldier like his father. He was faced with the problems of a weak financial
system and the predatory Afghans. Bahadur Shah, the ruler of Gujarat, also
posed a great threat. Humayun’s brother Kamran who was in-charge of Kabul and
Kandahar extended his authority up to Punjab. Humayun remembering the promise
he had made to his father on the eve of his death that he would treat his
brothers kindly, agreed to Kamran’s suzerainty over Punjab to avoid a civil
war.
The growth of Afghan power in the regions around
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Sher Khan (later Sher Shah)
made Humayun to initiate action. Defeating the Afghans at Daurah in 1532
Humayun besieged the powerful fort of Chunar. After a period of four months,
Humayun, believing the word of Sher Shah that he would be loyal to the Mughals,
withdrew the siege. This turned out to be a great mistake.
Humayun spent the succeeding years of his life in
constructing a new city in Delhi, Dinpanah, while his enemies were
strengthening themselves. Realising the ensuing danger from Bahadur Shah who
had annexed Rajasthan and instigated and provided refuge to all anti-Mughal
elements, Humayan marched against him. He captured Gujarat and Malwa and left
them under the control of his brother Askari. Unable to put down the rebellions
of the Gujarati people, Askari decided to proceed to Agra. This alarmed Humayun
stationed at Mandu, for he was afraid that Askari would take Agra for himself.
Hence, abandoning Gujarat and Malwa Humayun pursued his brother. Both the
brothers reconciled after a meeting at Rajasthan.
When Humayun was deeply engrossed in the affairs of
Bahadur Shah, Sher Khan had strengthened himself by defeating the ruler of
Bengal. Sher Khan captured the fort of Rohtas and Bengal.
After capturing Chunar Humayun marched to Bengal to
confront Sher Khan. When Humayun reached Gaur or Gauda he received information
on the rebellion of Hindal, his younger brother. Humayun proceeded to Agra to
quell the rebellion. Sher Khan who had been quiet all this time started
attacking the army of Humayun. When Humayun reached Chausa with great
difficulty there was a full-fledged battle.
This battle was won by Sher Khan due to his
superior political and military skills. Humayun suffered a defeat in which 7000
Mughal nobles and soldiers were killed and Humayun himself had to flee for his
life by swimming across the Ganga. Humayun who had arrived at Agra assembled
his army with the support of his brothers Askari and Hindal to counter Sher
Khan. The final encounter took place at Kanauj.
This battle was won by Sher Khan and Humayun’s army
was completely routed, and he became a prince without a kingdom.
Related Topics
Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, DMCA Policy and Compliant
Copyright © 2018-2024 BrainKart.com; All Rights Reserved. Developed by Therithal info, Chennai.