Hari Singh Nalwa by Surinder Singh Johar
Hari Singh Nalwa by Surinder Singh Johar
Hari Singh Nalwa by Surinder Singh Johar
6. Handbook on Sikhism
PREFACE ^ ^ ^
Printed in India at Milap Press. Delhi This is the story of a General who did so much for
(y)
X2446853
consolidating the Khalsa raj. History would have been
different, if he would not have died in the battle of
Jamraud. CONTENTS
Biography .. 193
Index .. 198
(vii)
(vi)
CHAPTER I
(viii)
2] HARI SINGH NALWA ANCESTRY
Ranjit Singh's ancestor, Baba Budh Singh, had darbar at Anandpur. Nodh Singh was an ambitious
visited the darbqr of Guru Hari Rai, the seventh Sikh man, always ready to fight. He spent most of his time
Master. Later baptised by Guru Gobind Singh, he stealing cattle grazing in the fields in the surrounding
became a devout Sikh. It is understood that he had also villages. This was then considered a dignified profession.
served under the tenth Master. Budh Singh has also been The more a person indulged in this type of depredations
described as a person having connections with a gang of the more powerful he became, covering himself with
predatory Sikhs and Sansis and "won for himself the glory. In due course of time, he became a highway
reputation of the boldest and the most successful free- robber- And as his notority spread, people became in-
1
booter in the country." Says Khushwant Singh: "Budh creasingly afraid of him. He joined the Fyzulpuria misal
Singh was a freebooter whose feats of endurance and under Kapur Singh's leadership and made a fortune by
those of his piebald mare, Desan, made them legendary. plundering Ahmed Shah Durani. Hari Singh Nalwa's
They travelled the plains of the Punjab and swarm its grandfather, Sardar Hardas Singh Uppal, had met Nodh
broad rivers in flood many times, and being inseparable, Singh at Majitha where the former lived and struck
came to be known jointly as Desan Budh Singh. When friendship with him.
Budh Singh died in 1718, his body was found to be
riddled with scars of sabre and musket wounds. He left After the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh in
his sons a few villages they could call their own and 1708, there followed a period of chaos and confusion.
many others in the neighbourhood which paid them Repression was let loose on the Sikhs who had to make
protection taxrakhi." 2
great sacrifices for their survival. The period of trials
and tribulations continued till 1733. During this period,
Budh Singh's son, Nodh Singh, was born in 1709. the Gill Chaudhries of Majitha were Mughal henchmen.
After the death of Budh Singh, the family shifted from They were staunch supporters of the Governors of
Sukerchak, first to Raja Sansi and then to Majitha, both Lahore, Abdul Samad and Nawab Zakria Khan who
in Amritsar district. Nodh Singh carried on his father's were bent upon crushing the Sikhs. In 1733, Bahadur
profession. He constructed a small fortress in Sukerchak Shah, the Emperor of Delhi, bestowed upon Kapur Singh
village and raised a force to defend it against Afghan Fyzulpuria a jagir of 12 villages beside the title oi
invaders. He further strengthened his position by Nawab. Taking advantage of the prevailing conditions,
marrying Lai Kaur, daughter of Bhai Gulab Singh the Sikhs organised themselves into five dais, which
Shergill of Majitha, in 1726. Gulab Singh was the leader later laid the foundations of 12 Sikh misals.
of the people associated with Guru Gobind Singh's
Bhai Gulab Singh Shergill of Majitha always took
1. Smyth, C. History of Reigning Family of Lahore P. 4.
2. Khushwant Singh, Ranjit Singh, P. 21
the side of the panth. He left no stone unturned to keep
4] HARI SINGH NALWA ANCESTRY A
aloft its banner. He persuaded his son-in-law, Nodh his life. He strengthened his relationship with the Fyzul-
Singh to be baptised by Kapur Singh. Later, both of puria misal, and fortified the Sukerchak fortress. He
them joined the Khalsa Dal. The Dal had to be strength- recruited a number of soldiers to fight the Afghans and
ened as the Mugal rulers at Delhi had again taken to a organised regular campaigns of loot and plunder to raise
policy of suppression, Sikhs being the main target. funds and enhance his prestige. In a short span of time,
Several leading Sikhs had to sacrifice their lives for the Charat Singh captured many surrounding villages and
sake of the panth. In short, the Punjab was in turmoil. became chief of the Sukerchakia misal. He had a large
army under his command and struck terror all around,
Bhai Gulab Singh Shergill and Sardar Hardas
Singh Uppal took leading part in the campaigns against gaining considerable power and influence.
the Mughals, Baba Nodh Singh assisting them. He de- "In 1756, Charat Singh married a daughter of
fended their ancestral home against the onslaught of Amir Singh. Amir Singh's depredations extended from
the Mughals. The Gill Chaudhries of Majitha played a
the banks of the Jhelum to the walls of Delhi having
dirty game and became informers of the Mughal
acquired large territorial possessions in Gujranwala, he
government. Whenever Sardar Hardas Singh visited 1
the town ; the government was informed. One day as was looked as the chief man of the district." He was an
both the Sardars were surreptitiously trying to enter old man but was very powerful in the area. This marriage
Majitha, they were attacked by the Mughal soldiers raised Charat Singh's status. He became ambitious and
and their place of shelter was set on fire. Bhai Gulab entertained thoughts of annexing the adjoining terri-
Singh Shergill, along with several others, was burnt tories. Charat Singh started regular campaigns and
alive. Sardar Hardas Singh luckily escaped. created havoc in the neighbouring areas. He collected a
large booty and acquired considerable financial standing.
In 1750, when Mir Mannu became the Governor Eventually he became a force to reckon with.
of Lahore, the Sikhs were persecuted and a reign of
terror unleashed on them. Many Sikhs started collecting He codsiderably augmented his original force of
in the house of Sardar Nodh Singh. Majitha Chaudhries, 100 horsemen and appointed Sardar Hardas Singh
who were jealous of him, carried tales to the Governors Uppal as Commander of his forces.
of Lahore. A s a result, the town was one day attacked
by Mir Mannu's forces in full strength. Baba Nodh Time and again Sardar Charat Singh fell upon the
Singh took shelter in house but eventually had to lay Mughal forces. He attacked the Mughal fortress at
down his life as his defences were rather weak. Eminabad whose commandant was killed in action. The
Sardar collected a large booty and retired to his newly-
Nodh Singh's eldest son, Charat Singh, was born
in 1721. He was a gallant soldier, always willing to risk Latif, M o h d . History of the Panjab, P. 3 3 8
6] HARI SINGH NALWA
ANCESTRY
[7
built fortress at Gujranwala. Khawaja Obeid, the
Now Charat Singh captured the fort of Rohtas and
Governor of Lahore, became furious and ordered a
occupied Chakwal. Pind Dadan Khan and the area
strong force of 2,000 led by Bahadur Khan and Afzal
north of the river Jhelum. After that he kept quiet for
Khan, to march on Gujranwala. A fierce battle ensued.
about 10 years, at the same time strengthening his forces.
"The sikhs united together and defended their property
Then he had to intervene in a family dispute of the Raja
against the Mahomedansthe invading army was com-
of Jammu, Ranjit Deo. The Raja wanted his younger
pletely routed, and its chiefs narrowly escaped with
son Dalel Singh to succeed him in place of the elder,
their lives, leaving their military stores and ammunition
Brij Raj Deo and invited the Bhangis to help him. At
in the hands of the enemy. From this time the audacity
this Brij Raj Deo raised a banner of revolt and sought
of the Sikhs increased, and they began to organise
the help of Charat Singh, promising him an annual
themselves into a still more compact and formidable
tribute in case of his success. Charat Singh in turn
body under Charat Singh, who, as his fame increased
entered into an alliance with Jai Singh Kanahaya and
established his power as the head of the 'Sukerchakia
attacked Jammu but the battle could not be decisive.
misalr'
Charat Singh was, however, killed with the bursting of
his own matchlock.
The liquidation of the royal forces emboldened
Charat Singh and he organised a series of compaigns Now a word about Sardar Hardas Singh Uppal,
against the Afghans. Many more people joined his army. an ancestor of Hari Singh Nalwa. He fought all the
On the appearance of Ahmed Shah, the Abdali, with his battles shoulder to shoulder with Sardar Charat Singh.
Afghan troops, in 1762, Charat Singh conscious of his When in 1762, Ahmed Shah attacked Panjab and a
own inability to oppose the disciplined army of the Shah great massacre took place at Kup Rihara in Sangrur
in the open field, and afraid of a direct conflict with the district, Sardar Hardas Singh fought valiantly but was
main body of the invaders, sent his family to Jammu, killed in action.
where he concealed all his property, but he was never
quiet himself. At the head of the band of chosen men, After the battle was over and things settled down
he harassed the march of the Afghans, cut off the somewhat. SardarCharat Singh appointed Sardar Gurdial
stragglers of their army, and plundered their baggage. Singh Uppal, son of Sardar Hardas Singh, in his army
The Afghans on their side, levelled to the ground the and gave him a command.
2
mud fort which the Sikhs were building at Gujranwala."
Charat Singh died at the age of 45, leaving behind
his eldest son, Mahan Singh, to succeed him. He was
1. Latif M o h d , H i s t o r y o f t h e Panjab P. 339
hardly ten years of age but he proved to be a great
2. Latif M o h d . , History of the Panjab P. 339
warrior. Later he became head of the Sukarchakia misal.
8] HARI SINGH NALWA [9
ANCESTRY
His principality included Gujranwala, Eminabad, Rasulnagar and surrender of the Bhangis enhanced the
Chakwal, Jalalpur, Pind Dadan Khan and Rohtas. He stature of Mahan Singh resulting in spread of his fame
had an estimated annual revenue of Rs. 300,000. far and wide. He was now the acknowledged warrior.
When Mahan Singh was a minor, his mother, Mai Realising Mahan Singh's strength, the smaller
Desan, played a remarkable part in his life. "She ruled Sardars accepted his suzerainty and offered him nazrana.
with vigour and diplomacy as Sikh ladies played an At this, Sardars of other leading misals became jealous
1
important part in the history of these warlike families." of him and tried to harm him in whatever way they
"She was a shrewed and courageous woman who ruled could. But he had become so powerful that none could
2
the misal, with tact and ability" and rebuilt the challenge his superiority.
Gujranwala fort which had been earlier destroyed by
Ahmed Shah Abdali. Next Mahan Singh marched towards Jammu which
was a rich and prosperous area. Jammu fell and its ruler
In 1779, Mahan Singh took charge of the govern- Brij Raj Deo fled to the hills for safety, leaving the
ment in his own hands. He later attacked the territory capital undefended. Mahan Singh had joined hands with
of Bhangis and succeeded in taking possession of Issa Kanahayas for the capture of Jammu and agreed to
Khel and Mussa Khel. Then he marched towards kotli share the booty equally. The Kanahaya's forces under
near Sialkot and accepted tribute from the ruler there. Sardar Haqiqat Singh marched via Jaffarwal but could
Returning from Kotli, he entered into alliance with the not join Mahan Singh's forces. "Maha Singh plundred
Kanahaya chief Jai Singh. The alliance proved very the town, exacted a large indemnity from the people,
useful and they marched together on Rasulnagar, a stripped the palace and the treasury everything of value,
territory ruled by Pir Mohammad Chatta whose princi- and when Haqiqat Singh arrived at the scene, refused to
pality extended to the eastern side of Chenab. share the spoils with him. The Kanahaya Sardar left the
Rasulnagar fort was besieged by the allied farces which hills empty-handed in disgust, and shortly afterwards he
were 6000 strong and the siege lasted four months. Pir died." 1
horsemen in the world, they are surpassed by Afghans ques, he became perfect in horsemanship and other
and Hindustanis who are inferior to them as infantry. usm y feats at a tender age of eleven. In due course of
In the Maharaja's army the infantry were the pick of time he became the leader of infinite dash and gallantry.
the youth of the country ; only the handsomest and
Hari Singh grew like a true soldier. During the
strongest men were selected, while the cavarly were
period 1801-1804, he participated in all the campaigns
irregular troops. The contingents of his different Sirdars,
launched by the Maharaja and left a lasting impression
and not appointed for any considerations of bravery or
1
on his mind. It was a period when Ranjit Singh was
strength."
consolidating his empire. Besides capturing Kasur and
The Maharaja had great love for children. He Multan, he forced the Rajas of Jammu and Kangra to
would see that his Sardars' sons got special training in pay tribute to the Maharaja. Amritsar was annexed by
horsemanship and in the use of arms and ammunition. defeating the Bhangi Sardars.
"The Maharaja is fond of children, and many of his By now Hari Singh had shown signs of becoming
Sirdar's sons are bred up under his eyes, and instructed a great general. He became so perfect in horsemanship
in riding and the use of arms; by this means they became that the Maharaja instructed his generals to take special
attached to him, and when able to assume commands, care of the boy. One day in 1804, Hari Singh accom-
2
they never fail of succeeding to important ones." panied the Maharaja on a hunting expedition. Many
The Maharaja thus raised a boys' regiment and other Sardars had also joined them. Hari Singh, then
trained them in the use of arms. When Hari Singh was hardly 15 years of age killed a roaring tiger with his
only eleven he came to Lahore with the idea of serving sword in a hand-to-hand fight. It was a feat of great
the Motherland and went straight to the Maharaja's courage, which impressed the Maharaja so much that he
darbar. He showed him the letters of appreciations his conferred on him the title of sardar and bestowed on
father and grand father had received from the Ranjit him a big Jagir.
Singh's forefathers in lieu of services rendered to them. When the tiger was cut into pieces, Pandit Bihari
The Maharaja was duly impressed by Hari Singh's desire Lai, the painter ac:ompanying the hunting party, was
to serve in his army, following in the foot steps of his ordered by the Maharaja to paint the portrait of Hari
forefathers and took him in the boys' regiment. Singh depicting his encounter with the tiger. After the
portrait had been painted, a copy of it was presented by
Hari Singh was given special training in military
the Maharaja to Hari Singh who kept it a as monument.
matters. Exhibiting keen interest in martial techni-
I surprisd him by my knowledge whence he had gained
the application of Nalwa, and of his having cloven the
1. Griffin, Sir, Lepel : Ranjit Singh, PP 1 3 4 , 35
head of a tiger who had already siezed him as its prey.
2. M e g r e g o r , M . L., H i s t o r y o f t h e S i k h s , V o l . I . P . 2 2 7
24] HABI SINGH NALWA
Hari Singh Nalwa thus brought infinite fame to Degh-o-Tegh-o-Fateh-o Nusrat be-darang,
his forefathers who had established themselves as the yaft az Nanak Guru Gobind Singh.
finest of soldiers.
[Hospitality, the sword, victory and conquest un-
failing to Guru Gobind Singh from Nanak]
was to be run in the name of Sarkar Khalsaji, He pre- It was a vital step towards the establishment of a
ferred to be called Singh Sahib. sovereign power in the state. The Maharaja having
discarded crown and bestowing power in the hands of
Amidst shouts of Sat Siri Akal, Sahib Singh Bedi Sarkar Khalsa, fostered a sense of unity and discipline
put safforn mark on Ranjit Singh's forehead and he was among his subjects, particularly Sikhs. The other heads
formally proclaimed the Maharaja of Punjab. A royal
of misals were silenced once for all and their aspirations
salute was fired. After the investiture ceremony was
over, the Maharaja rode on an elephant and passed to attain sovereign power were curbed. They had no
through the main streets of Lahore. The jubilant crowd alternative but to recognise Ranjit Singh as the ruler
showered flowers on the Maharaja who in turn showered of Punjab. The title of Maharaja gave Ranjit Singh a
back gold and silver coins. legal right to demand revenue from the territories which
had once paid revenue to Lahore. These territories
Inspite of all this, the Maharaja remained as included Jammu, Multan, Kashmir, Bahawalpur: Dera-
humble and unassuming as before. He refused to wear jats and Mankera. The were required to pay tribute to
an emblem of royalty on his turban. He did not sit on Maharaja and owe allegiance to the darbar.
the throne and held his darbar sitting cross-legged in
his small bath tub, using it as a chair. He received his Within a short span, the Maharaja convinced not
admirers and other visitors reclining on cushions, sitting only the people of Lahore, but also the people of the
on a carpet. neighbouring areas that he did not intend a Sikh rule in
Punjab. It would be a purely Punjabi State, secular in
The Sardars and chiefs offered nazrana to demons-
character and outlook in which all subjects of the State,
trate their allegiance to the Maharaja. They were in
Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs would be given equal treat-
turn given Khillats. Ranjit Singh's was a secular ruler
ment. Nobody would be above law. Everybody irres-
in the true sense of the word. Courts presided over by
pective to his religion, caste or creed would enjoy the
the Qctzis and Mirilas were recognised and special care
was taken to see that the feelings of the Muslim subjects same privileges, rights and responsibilities. The Maharaja
were not injured in any way. Imam Bakhsh was appoint- offered State jobs to talented Hindus and Muslims and
ed as the city Kotwal and some prominent citizens were himself respected the sentiments of all religions. He
named Chaudries who were to be held responsible for participated in the festival of all religions. Dussehra
maintaining law and order in their respective jurisdic- and Diwali were celebrated with splendeur and gaiety.
tions. A sense of security prevailed among the people All the State buildings were illuminated and fireworks
and civic life was restored to normalcy. displayed. The Maharaja paid homage to the tombs
of Muslim divines. On Amavas, took bath in the holy
The assumption of the title of Maharaja by Ranjit tanks of Amritsar and Tarn Taran with his Sikh
Singh is of great significance in the history of Punjab. brotheren.
HARI SINGH NALWA
FIRST VICTORY AT KASUR [ 29
After settling the affairs of Lahore, the Maharaja
turned his eyes on Kasur. Kasur was a small colony Nawab remained inside the fort and fought the battles
governed by a Pathan Nawab Nizam-ud-Din. It was from within. After a sieze lasting several months, the
an eye sore to the Maharaja. In 1801, an expedition Nawab surrundered with a promise to pay war idemnity.
was sent to subdue the Pathan but stubborn resistance This victory lent further courage to the Maharaja's
was offered by him. Later, the Nawab joined hands forces.
with Sahib Singh Bhangi and raised a banner of revolt In 1807, however, trouble erupted again. Qutb-
against the Maharaja. The Maharaja sent a force under ud-Din revolted and challenged the authority of the
Fateh Singh Kalianwala to Kasur. The Nawab sur- Maharaja. On February 10, the Maharaja's forces
rendered and agreed to acknowledge the authority of attacked Kasur under the command of Jodh Singh
the Lahore darbar. He paid nazrana and offered a few Ramgarhia. For the first time since his joining the
of his men as hostages as a guarantee of future good Maharaja's army Hari Singh Nalwa accompanied the
behaviour. commander and got a chance to show his valour. He
was given the command of a division of army. Kasur
Hardly a year passed in peace. The Nawab again contained many small forts, all of which were with a
became hostile and started attacking the Lahore darbar's huge quantity of arms and ammunition and other war
territory. The Maharaja could not tolerate this open material. The march of the Sikhs cut off all the lines
defiance. So a force was sent under the able command of communications. Sieze lasted about a month or so,
of Fateh Singh Ahluwalia to subdue Nawab Nizam-ud- by which time the Pathans had consumed all their pro-
Din. However, the Maharaja could not take lisk in visions and had begun to live on the flesh of horses and
the matter and himself followed with a strong contin- other cattle. It was a terrible scene, The Sikhs laid
gent of troops to chastise the Pathan ruler. Kasur was waste the entire area and, using artillery, levelled the
sacked. Very little resistance was offered by the Nawab city walls to the ground. The city was plundered and
and his ally, finding it difficult to hold the fort, he everything the people of the town had was forcibly
surrendered. The Nawab had to pay a huge sum of wrested from them. Qutab-ud-Din shut himself within
money as idemnity and was recognised as tributary of the four walls of the fort. These were internal dissen-
Lahore darbar. tions in the Nawab's family which resulted in his comp-
lete ruin. By the end of March, he was forced to
However, the situation further changed with the
surrunder. 'Like a moth, Qutab-ud-Din fell upon the
assasination of Nawab Nizam-ud-Din and succession of
lamp of the glory of the armies, burst his wings and
his brother Nawab Qutb-ud-Din who, being somewhat
having failed to carry on the open battle, became besi-
arrogant, openly defied the authority of the Maharaja.
egedy The Nawab's forces laid down their arms and
Immediately, a force was sent to subdue him. The
Umdat-ut-Tawarikh. S u r i , S o h a n Lai D a f t a r 11. P. 5 3 .
30 ] HABI SINGH NALWA
1. Latif M o h d . H i s t o r y o f t h e P a n j a b P. 3 8 7 .
BATTLES OF MULTANHARI SINGH IS INJURED [ 33
CHAPTER V between Shuja Khan and Haji Sharif Beg, the two aspi-
rants for the Governorship of Multan, HajiBeg sought
the aid of Bhangis to subdue the former. His request
BATTLES OF MULT AN was conceded and Jhanda Singh marched towards
-HARI SINGH IS INJURED Multan alongwith his brother Ganda Singh. Fierce
battle ensued in which Nawab Shuja Khan and his ally
Mubarak Khan, were completely routed. The fort was
Multan was a rich fertile land in the southern part seized by the Bhangis who refused to hand over the
of Punjab and earned land revenue in abundance. It territory to Haji Beg. Multan was proclaimed territory
was a part of the Mughal empire and was known as belonging to the Khalsa. Haji Beg was driven out of it.
Dar-ul-Amaan. When the Mughal power was disinteg- The Bhangis ultimately divided the town among them-
rating, Multan came in the possession of Pathans. In selves. A portion of the city was given to Lehna Singh,
one part of the province of Multan was a territory the Bhangi Commandar, and on the remaining portion
which was bestowed on a landlord by Nadir Shah in the authority of Diwan Singh was recognised, who was
1739. Later, it came to be known as Bhawalpur. In appointed Commander of the fort where Sikh forces
1752, Ahmad Shah Abdali conquered Multan but left were stationed.
out Bhawalpur. He appointed a separate Governor for
the province. Till 1757, it was governed as a part of The Bhangi rule of Multan did not last more than
Ahmad Shah Abdali's Indian empire. In 1767, Jhanda seven years. They could not administer the territory
Singh, the brave and fearless head of Bhangi Misal, efficiently which resulted in widespread discontent.
launched a severe attack on Multan but he was unable Jhanda Singh was constantly busy in wars and internal
to drive out the Durani Shuja Khan from there. Even wrangles of divergent misals. Although he was able to
his ally, Mubarak K h m , could not be uprooted. A conquer Jhang, Kala Bag and Mankera he could not
fierce battle took place on the banks of the river Sutlej subdue Shujabad. After sometime, Jhanda Singh was
but it could not decide the fate of any of them. A t
assassinated while at war in Jammu with Kanahayas
last an understanding was reached between Jhanda and Sukerchakias.
Singh Bhangi and the Nawab to the effect that Pak-
pattan would form the boundry between their terri- In 1776, Shuja Khan died and his son Muzaffar
tories. But the Bhangi Sardar did not stick to the terms Khan Succeeded him. In 1779, Timur, the successor of
of the agreement. He again invaded Multan in 1771 Ahmad Shah Abdali, expelled the Bhangis from Multan
but failed to capture it. However, a dispute arose and recognised Muzaffar Khan as its Governor. Timur
also overran Sind and Bhawalpur, the ruler of which
were again brought under subjugation, making them
BATTLES OF MULTANHARI SINGH IS INJURED [ 35
34] HARI SINGH NALWA
tributories of Kabul. Timur then returned to Afganistan. the neighbouring tribes, Sials and others, who attacked
1
him."
Multan thus again came under the Afghans who From the very beginning, Ranjit Singh had an eye
ruled it with an iron hand. Timur died in 1792. Nawab on Multan and wanted to annex it to his empire.
Muzaffar Khan remained loyal to Afghans and paid Multan had then a strategic position. It was not only
tribute regularly. However, Wazir Fateh Khan, the the capital of the State but was also a centre of trade
Minister of Amir Shah Mohmad of Kabul, conspired to with the countries across the Bolan Pass and had an
replace Nawab Muzaffar Khan and appointed his own annual revenue of Rs. 680,975 a year. There was a
henchman as the Governor of Multan, but the move was direct route between Multan and the Bolan Pass, leading
strongly resisted by the Nawab Shuja-ul-Malik, who to the Kandhar under the Persians. Bolan Pass had to
had regained power in the eastern part of Afghanistan, be defended by the forces stationed at Multan. Moreo-
came to his rescue and confirmed Muzaffar Khan to the ver, it was situated in between the States of Bhawalpur
Governorship. and Southern Sind and could pose a threat to Maharaja
Ranjit Singh anytime for all these Muslim States could
The Nawab governed Multan in a half-hearted
join hands and attack Ranjit Singh's territory. Their
manner and administered it only to fulfill his own ambi-
power, therefore, had to be shattered.
tions. "Multan stood 4 miles from the left of river
Chenab ; it was surrounded by a wall between forty and In 1802, Ranjit Singh attacked Multan for the first
fifty feet high. A large portion of villages were in ruins,
\ and there were signs of a well-cultivated country going
to decay. Nothing could be worse than the govern-
ment ; all sorts of direct exactions were aggravated by
time. The Nawab came out to meet him 30 kos from
his capital but could not stand against Ranjit Singh's
forces. In the end, he offered nazrana and promised to
pay tribute to Ranjit Singh. Some valuable gifts were
monopolies, rapacious ungovernable troops, and every exchanged and both parted as friends.
1
other kind of abuse."
In 1806 again, after having captured Jhang, Ranjit
It is estimated that the army of the Nawab consis-
Singh marched towards Multan and reached Mahtam,
ted of 2,000 fully trained strong men and 20 guns. He
32 KM north of the city. The Nawab did not have the
had also 10,000 militia which eould be utilised in case
heart to engage him, so he gave him Rs 70 000 and
of exigencies.
requested him to retire to his own territorry
Muzaffar Khan "was a brave and energetic man, ii
and held his own gallantly against both the Sikhs and In 1807, the Maharaja once again marched to Mul-
.ujqluwfifffl bflG b . \m C
f i " , Lepel, Ranjit Sihgh. P , 1 8 3 .
1. Elphinstone, Mountstuan An Account of the Kingdom of Kabul, I, PP 2 8 ,
27 8 28.
36 ] HARI SINGH NALWA BATTLES OP MULTANHARI SINGH IS INJURED [ 37
tan in force. A battle was fought on the outskirts of the On February 25, the Maharaja, who was himself
town after which it was partially captured but the fort mmanding the forces sent an ultimatum to Nawab
remained impregnable. "At last, an agreement was M.T/affar Khan through his general Fateh Singh Ahlu-
concluded through Fateh Singh Kalianwala, under walia It was stated that the Nawab had entered into an
which the Maharaja returned to his capital, securing a areement with the Lahore darbar that he would be loyal
huge sum of money. Nawab Muzaffar Khan, weary of to the darbar that he would have no connection with the
war now made a pilgrimage to Mecca, and on his return enemies of the darbar; that he would pay regularly tri-
vainly tried to induce to English to take him under their bute and nazrana to the darbar through his own men;
protection But this the British Government declined. and that he would remain faithful and well-wisher of
Multan was remote and beyod the sphere they than the darbar under all circumstances. But he had not
desire to influence. 1 implemented the terms of the treaty; was responsible
for breaking the various clauses of the treaty giving
At the same time, the Maharaja's desire to capture shelter to Ahmad Khan, Sial of Jhang, who was the
Multan could not be extinguished. Preparations were confirmed enemy of the darbar; was bound to arrest
on once again to conquer the capital. So, in the early Ahmad Khan according to the terms of the treaty and
days of 1810, Ranjit Singh marched towards Multan hand him over to the Maharaja; had helped Nawab
with a considerable force. He had earlier met Shah Qutab-ud-Din of Kasur against the Maharaja and given
Shuja of Afghanistan at Khushab. Shah Shuja was an him arms, ammunition and money for which proof was
exiled king of Kabul who desired Ranjit Singh to available; and had failed to send tribute and nazrana in
capture Multan and hand over the territory to him. time.
Muzaffar Khan had in 1803, repulsed an attack of the
In the end, the Nawab was called upon to pay the
Shah's troops and in the hope of conciliating him, had
due amount immediately without any further loss of
more than once offered him an asylum at Multan but
time. ]f he did not take speedy action in this regard,
the Shah desired to have the capital as his own by con- his territory would be annexed to the Lahore darbar.
quest. Shah was given due respect by the Maharaja, He was further asked to send an immediate reply
but the Shah did not offer any money to Ranjit Singh, through Fateh Singh Ahluwalia.
who then decided to attack Multan.
When the ultimatum was read to the Nawab, he
A huge force preceded on February 15, 1810 became nervous and panicky. He did not give any
which reached the outskirts of Multan on February 24. satisfactory reply and tried to side-track the issue.
Ahluwalia no lohger stayed with the Nawab and retur-
1. Griffin, Lepel, Ranjit Singh P . 1 8 3 . ned to report to the Maharaja the gist of what had
1
happened The Maharaja immediately ordered his 1iant soldiers had to come forward to lay mines under
a
forces to'attack Multan. The Nawab had also made the walls of the fort. But to lay mines was a most
full preparations for war. He had collected a good ^mgerous task which could have very dangereus conse-
Quantity of arms and ammunition. However, the quences Anyone who tried to lay the mines might
Maharaja's forces took prossession of the city, and laid himself get destroyed in the process. The Maharaja
sieze of the fort. The Nawab had provided the fort cummouned his Generals and Sardars and addressed
with an abundance of water, provisions and supplies. them "My dear brothren, Khalsa ji, it is my keen and
"The appearance of the Sikh army at Multan and their earnest desire that we should gain victory in this battle.
occuoation of the town spread alarm throughout the Daily skirmishes are taking lives of many innocent sol-
neighbouring country. Muhammad Khan, the chief of diers Now the only way left out is to make sacrifices.
Leia and Bhakker, bought off the invader by the pay- So I demand the head of my few brave and gallant sol-
ment of Rs 1,20,000 as a ransom for his state and the diers who could take the risk of even laying down their
chief of Bahawalpur, Sadiq Muhammad Khan, through lives for ultimate victory. We should have faith in God
a friend of Muzaffar Khan's, offered a lakh as tribute, and I am sure, the success will be ours." It is said that
but as the Maharaja wanted more substantial aid, the about a hundred soldiers offered themselves for the sup
offer was not accepted. The Bahawalpur chief was at reme sacrifice. And, of course, one of the first to offer
last compelled to furnish a contingent of 500 cavalry himself for the arduous task was Hari Singh Nalwa, the
1
for service in the impending Multan campaign.' pride of Maharaja's army. Then came Nihal Singh
\
Attari and Attar Sihgh Dhari alonwith others. The
Now, the Maharaja's attention was diverted to-
Maharaja was extremely happy and, with great pride in
wards the' capture of the fort. He himself took stock
his men, declared that the army which had such gallant
of the situation by going round the fort along its walls
soldiers could never be defeated by anyone. "But I am
and ordered installation of the big guns outside Hathi
not a coward. I don't wish to remain aloof from the
and Khizri gates. Although, by now, the citadel of
battle field, I will myself lead my men to lay mines
Multan was besieged by the Sikh army, the Pathans
under the walls of the fort and thus fulfil my duty".
offered a stout resistance and the most strenous attempts
Upon this, Hari Singh Nalwa stood before the Maharaja
of the Sikh forces to capture the fort by assault failed
with folded hands and said : "We are here to serve our
miserably. A heavy bombardment was made for seve- Master, if we sacrifice our lives for the honour of our
ral days but without any result. Motherland we shall be proud of it. Thousands will
The Maharaja, finding the situation most critical, arise from the land to sacrifice their lives. But we do
thought of an alternative. Under this plan, some of the not desire that our great Master should be harmed in
any way and suffer any casulty. Your honour will not
1. Griffin. Lepel, Ranjit ?ingh P - 1 8 3 , , be reborn to lead the nation to victory. Thus, this
40 ] HARI SINGH NALWA
1, Latif M o h d . , H i s t o r y o f t h e P u n j a b i P. 3 8 6 .
42 ] HARI SINGH NAI/WA
of Jamedar Khushal Singh. The Sikh forces encourged the garrisons escaped with their lives." "The city and
by this made renewed assaults but were repulsed. It is fort were now given up to be plundered by the sikh
said that at one time the Sikh forces lost 1800 of their troops : great were the ravages committed by the Sikhs
men. The gates were blown in, but the garrison raised on this occasion. About 400 to 500 houses in the fort
behind them mounds of earth on which they fought were razed to the ground and their owners deprived of
hand to hand with the Sikhs. The defenders of the fort all they had. The precious stones, jewellery, shawls and
were at last reduced to about two three hundred fighting other valuables belonging to the Nawab were confiscated
men, most of them beloning to the family or tribe of the to the State and kept carefully packed by Diwan Ram
Nawab. The rest were killed. Dayal, for the inspection of the Maharaja. The arms
-siix3 osv/onz BwlfiW Tlgnig haH .naijst 3137/ >ir>-aM were all carried away. In the town many houses were
The storming of the fort continued till June 2 1818 set on fire, and nothing was left with the inhabitants
when Ilhai Baksh's artillery was able to effect two that was worth having. Hundreds were stripped even of
breaches. Again, many assaults were made by the Sikhs their clothes. Outrages were committed on the women,
who also crossed the moat, but then they were mowed ~
Griffin L e p e l , R a n j i t S i n g h P. 1 6 7
down by the Nawab's men.
48] HARI SINGH NAL\v A
BATTLES OF MULTANHARI SINGH IS INJURED [49
many of whom committed suicide by drowning them
"After this, the walls of the fort were repaired and
selves in the wells or otherwise putting an end to their
garrison of 600 men was placed in the fort. The victorious
lives to save themselves from dishonour. Hundreds were
Sikh army hastened back to Lahore. The Maharaja
killed in the sack of the city; and indeed there was hardly
issued strict orders to his officers and soldiers that they
a soul who escaped both loss and violance. So great
in short, were the horrors inflicted upon the unfortunate should restore their plunder and if they were found with
inhabitants that the terrible incidents attend;: nt on the them by a particular date any article the penalty would
sack of Multan are recollected to this day, and still not be death.
1
unfrequently from the topics of conversation."
This order brought about rupees five lakhs to the
When the news of victory reached the Lahore State treasury- However, the plunder of Multan was
darbar, the Maharaja could not contain his joy. He gave estimated at two million sterling. It was supposed, in
the messenger who brought the news of victory a pair of popular belief, to bring no luck to its possessors most of
1
gold bracelets and rode out on the back of elephant and whom died in poverty or were killed in battle."
showered silver and gold on his subjects. Missar Diwan
Chand was honoured with the title of Zafarjang Bahadur. The Maharaja was over joyous at this victory. It
not only consolidated his power but also enhanced his
As Multan fell, a large booty was collected by the prestige. Canons were fired in Lahore to celebrate the
soldiers. Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself admitted that at victory. Celebrations were also held throughout the
the time of the conquest the wealth of the city was State. The victorious forces were received with full
estimated at four crores of rupees. The Sikh officers, he honour at Lahore and the Maharaja bestowed Jagirs on
said, did not restrain the soldiers from plunder after the his valiant generals and soldiers.
fall of the town, but very little of the booty came to his
share, even though the soldiary was made to disgorge Hari Singh Nalwa had proved his worth in this
2
part of it." battle. He made a place of honour in the Maharaja's
With the capture of Multan, Afghan influence in heart and the amount of Nalwa's jagir was doubled.
the south of Punjab was over. Maharaja Ranjit Singh
was in occupation of the rich province yielding a revenue Hardly Hari Singh Nalwa had been cured of his
of 700,000 rupees annually. It was a great commercial injuries when he was directed by the Maharaja to subdue
centre of trade and industry and had its strategic impor- the ruler of Mitha Tiwana, who had raised a banner of
tance. revolt. He was further asked to mend sayyads of Uch,
w
h o were not behaving properly. They had created
1. Latif M o h d . , History of t h e Punjab P. 412
2. M o o r c r a f t , Wiliiams Travels P. 61 : G r i
i n , Lepel. Punjab Chiefs P. 487
50] HART SINGH NALWA
JJATTLES OF MULTANHARI SINGH IS INJURED [51
terror in the area and people were groaning ander their be responsible for the consequences. They could vacate
cruelty. the town by night after which they would not be attack-
ed Tiwanas retreated and their territory was captured.
Hari Singh Nalwa, fulfilling the Maharaja's desire The Khalsa army fulfilled its promise and no blood was
and in accordance with the policy of the Khalsa, tried shed. Thereafter the Sikh flag was unfurled.
to mend these rulers but of no avail. The general did
not want to pick up quarrel with them, but when they Now came the turn of the sayyads. Hari Singh
refused to oblige, Sardar Dal Singh and Hari Singh Nalwa made up his mind to punish the sayyads for their
Nalwa came with four platoons of soldiers to subdue misdeeds. These Pirs had created havoc for the Hindu
them. On February 7, 1812, the Sikh forces and artillary population. They ill-treated them and looked on them
marched towards Mitha Tiwana, the capital of the with contempt. Whenever any Hindu used to cross their
Tiwana's territory and reached there in the shortest way, they would either cover their face with a piece of
possible time. The Tiwanas, under the command of cloth or spit on them. The Pirs even went to the extent
Ahamad yar Khan offered stout resistance. Artillary of looting the houses of these people without caring for
fire was opened and a fierce battle ensued. The Tiwanas any law. The innocent people., however, could not raise
fought bravely but suffered heavy casualties. The fight- their voice against them and went on bearing injustice
ing continued the whole day. silently.
After a couple of days one of the Muzaffar Khan's Uch was attacked by the Khalsa army under the
surviving sons was brought to the court of the Maharaja, command of Hari Singh Nalwa. The Pirs could not offer
who was very much impressed by the valour of the much resistance and were soon ready to surrunder. They
Nawab. As he placed gallantary above all other virtues were asked to pay nazrana of Rs. 25,000 which they
of a soldier, the Maharaja got up from his seat and readily paid. They were then directed to remain in
embraced the Nawab's son. After five days another son peace.
of the Nawab was brought up by Missar Diwan Chand.
The Maharaja also embraced him and asked him to sit Hari Singh Nalwa reached Lahore victorious. He
beside him. was well received by the Maharaja who bestowed on
him the entire territory as Jagir to Nalwa. Others were
By evening, the soldiers felt tired and the battle also amply rewarded
ceased. A gurmatta ; resolution was passed by the Sikh
leaders that it was no use fighting and killing the inno-
cent. Tiwanas were asked to cease hostilities as it would
be useless to shed more blood. It was also made clear
to them that if they did not do so, they would themselves
T H B FORT OF ATTOCK IS CONQUERED [53
people showered attar and flowers on him. The Sardar, latter in its most aggravated form was fearfully
1
along with the Maharaja, entered the fort. Canons were extensive."
fired and a gun salute was given. At night the entire
This statement of Moorcroft may be exaggregated
town was illuminated and crackers were fired. Next
yet it is clear that the great resentment prevailed among
day an open darbar was held by the Maharaja in which
the people of Kashmir who lived in depressing condi-
khillats were offered to those who had conque ed Kash-
tions. Signs of rebellion were visible, and efforts were
mir. The Maharaja showered praises on the Nalwa
on to sabotage the government from inside. Many
Sardar and appreciated his services for consolidating
people refused to pay land revenue. The Governments'
the empire. He was conferred a Jagir of the Dhan orders were not implemented. Besides, cases of loot
illaqa, worth six thousand rupees. People raised cries and arson were also reported. Ultimately complaints
of Sat Siri Akal and gave a tremendous ovation to the were lodged with the Maharaja about the mismanage-
Nalwa Sardar. However, the Sardar remained calm and ment of Kashmir affairs. He ordered Dewan Moti Ram
humble in the midst of all this eulogy and admiration. to bring about improvement in the administration but
The Maharaja was overjoyed and thanked the Lord for the Dewan lacked skill and the ability to manage the
his success. affairs. At last, the Maharaja sent Dewan Devi Dass
to Kashmir to enquire into its problems. When he
Dewan Moti Ram continued as Governor of reached Kashmir, he found the administration totally at
Kashmir for about a year. Though he governed the a breaking point. There was no respect for law and
province with a firm hand he had to levy heavy taxation order, and general condition of the people had very
as a huge sum of money was required for administrating much deteriorated. He reported to the Maharaja that
the territory. But it broke the backbone of the peasantry if such a state of affairs continued for sometime more,
and the working class. "Everywhere, however, the there would be an open rebellion which would be diffi-
people are in the most abject condition. Exorbitantly cult to control.
taxed by the Sikh Government, and subjected to every
As the Maharaja read Dewan Devi Dass
kind of extortion and oppression by its officers. The
report on Kashmir his visage became tant and grim.
consequences of the system are, the general depopula-
Soon he took a firm decision to set matters right. Hari
tion of the country. Not more than one-sixteenth of Singh Nalwa was appointed Governor of Kashmir. An
the cultivable surface is in cultivation, and the inhabi- open darbar was held by the Maharaja in which services
tants, starving at home, are driven in great numbers to of Hari Singh Nalwa to the Sikh empire were highly
the plains of Hindustan. In the like manner the people appreciated. A khillat was presented to him and he
of the city are rapidly thinning, though less from emi-
gration, then poverty and disease ; the prevalence of the Moorcroft. Travels. P. 3 4 4 .
70 ] HAM SINGH NALWA HARI SINGH BECOMES KASHMIR GOVERNOR [71
was asked to proceed to Kashmir without delay. Special would be dealt with severely. It was up to the people
instructions were given to him to govern the province to choose the path they wanted to.
with an iron hand but at the same time remain humane, The proclamation had the desired effect. People
steadfast and humble in his actions. paying started their dues to the government and respect
Hari Singh Nalwa reached Kashmir on August 20, for the law increased. Peace prevailed in the valley yet
1820. He took charge as Governor of Kashmir from some signs of discontent were still there.
Dewan Moti Ram the next day. It was a great day in When things settled down a little, Nalwa sought
the life of the great general as his ability, skill and the Maharaja's permission to strike coins in his name
courage were being put to test. He had already proved as it was necessary to do so to uphold the State's
his worth as a formidable general ; now time had come authority. The Maharaja readily agreed to the pro-
for him to prove his mettle as an administrator. posal and a coin was struck which contained ten massas
As Hari Singh Nalwa took charge, he found that of silver and six massas of bronze. The coin was known
no land revenue had been collected nor soldiers had as Hari Singh's rupee. It was equal to fifty paise.
been paid their salaries for the last four months. On Besides a rupee paisa coins were also mined. The under-
account of Dewan Moti Ram's lienient attitude, people mentioned words were engraved on the coin :
were openly disobeying government orders. There were Siri Akal Sahai, Samat 1878, on the other side was
many cases of loot and arson and powerfull were suck- Hari Singh's likeness and the words Zak Rapehia (one
ing the blood of the poor and the down-trodden. The rupee).
honour of women was not safe. In fact, there was no
rule of law and complete chaos prevailed. The next step was to take drastic action against
the inhabitants of Baramula and the people settled on
These conditions were unbearable for the Nalwa the banks of the river. These people were originally
Sardar. He made a proclamation to the effect that he Hindu Brahmins and Khatris who had been converted
would rule the people of Kashmir with love. No harsh to Islam during the Mughal period. They still put B
treatment would be meted out to anyone and steps and K after their names denoting Brahmins and Khatris
should be taken to improve the lot of the poor. To Their present leaders were Raja Ghulam Ali Khan and
achieve this, he solicited the cooperation of the people Zulfikar Ali Khan who had revolted openly during the
of Kashmir. People were directed to pay forthwith the governership of Dewan Moti Ram and had refused to
land revenue and other taxes due to them. They were pay land revenue- Dewan Moti Ram had summoned
further warned that if, after the issue of the procla- them to his darbar many a time but they had refused
mation, any untoward incident took place and people to obey his orders. The situation was grim and demand-
failed in their duty, they would be taken to task and ed firm but diplomatic action. Hari Singh Nalwa had
72] HARI SINGH NALWA HARI SINGH BECOMES KASHMIR GOVERNOR [ 73
to be very careful in dealing with these rebellious to 2,100,000 Nanak Shahi rupees. Hari Singh reduced
leaders. this figure to 1,300,000 Hari Singh rupees. This proved
beneficial both to the people and the government. Nalwa
Baramula was attacked and the people were not fixed his signature after careful and deep consideration
only forced to pay the balance of land revenue but were and giving due weightage to the aspirations of the
also made to pay Rs. 5 per family as war indemnity. people. The result was that the people started
Then Sardar Nalwa turned his attention towards B's paying land revenue willingly without any hesitation.
and K's. One night Nalwa, alongwith Sardar Tek Singh, The step was highly applauded by the Maharaja.
marched towards these villages with an infantry platoon.
People were surrouded and their leaders arrested. No Another evil that prevailed in Kashmir at that
resistance was offered. Some of them tried to make time was that of bonded labour. The system had been
prevalent since the days of Shankar Verma who had
mischief but they were properly taken to task. Both
ruled Kashmir in 907 A.D. Whenever any State official
the top leaders Raja Ghulam Ali Khan and Zulafkkar
proceeded on tour or attended to some other official
Ali Khan were put in chains and were sent to Lahore,
duty, thousands of labourers were forcibly caught and
under heavy escort. Their arms were confiscated and
put to all sort of odd jobs. It is said that the Raja got
were made to pay land revenue. They were further the town of Pattan constructed by these labourers with-
ordered to pay regular visits to Srinagar. Complete out paying them a single paise. In 1664 A.D., when
peace was now restored in the valley. The Maharaja Aurangzeb visited Kashmir, 30,000 Kashmiri labourers
issued a firman praising the senders rendered by Sardar were used to carry the luggage.
Nalwa.
When for the first time Sardar Nalwa toured the
After restoring order, Nalwa attended to land province his subordinates engaged hundreds of labourers
reforms. Land revenue records were studied and new to carry his luggage and provide him all sorts of faci-
rates of revenue fixed. This was the most difficult task. lities. Those were the days of harvesting and the
Nalwa solved the problem efficiently without making labourers were extremely busy in their operations. They
much changes in the system and without hurting the requested the chaudries with folded hands, to let them
feelings of the people. A man of shrewed disposition, free so that their work did not suffer. But no heed was
Nalwa tried to pacify all sections of the people. paid to their request ; rather they were beaten with
lathis, as was the prevailing custom. When this came
According to Ain-e-Akbari, Kashmir's land revenue to Nalwa's notice he wanted to know what all the hue
amounted to 3,011,619 Kharwar, equivalent to 1,552,825 and cry was about. He was informed that the labourers
rupees. During the Afghan regime, it was 6,000,000 had been collected to provide him the necessary faci-
chilak rupees and under Dewan Moti Ram it amounted lities and to carry his luggage and other effects.
74] HARI SINGH NALWA HARI SINGH BECOMES KASHMIR GOVERNOR [75
Nalwa refused to proceed further with the labourers confidence of the psople and gave them justice of which
and ordered that horses and donkeys be arranged for the they had lost all hopes from the rulers.
transportation of his luggage. Immediately a firman was
issued banning the system of bonded labour. Orders In the sphere of religion, Nalwa made drastic
were also issued to the effect that when labour was reforms. All the places where mosques had been cons-
required, paid worker should be engaged for the purpose. tructed in place of temples where again ordered to be
converted into temples. These places of worship were
Many other improvements were made by Nalwa eye sore to the Hindus and unless they had the freedom
in the administration. Relief was provided to flood to pay homage to their holy places, they could not
victims - 2003 Kharwar of rice was procured and distri- live in peace. Nalwa was a great secular leader who
buted among the sufferers. believed that unless freedom of worship was given to
each and every individual, the country could not
Anothei tax Tera was in force which all the prosper.
subjects were required to pay. This was levied at the
Another custom prevalent in Karhmir was that
time of birth, bethrotal and marriage. It was a most
no non-Muslim was allowed to tie turban on his head
unfair tax as people were already paying heavy taxes.
or wear shoes. Nalwa issued orders that no restriction
Nalwa orderec' the abolition of the tax forthwith.
would be imposed on anybody's dress. Everyone was
free to put on the dress of his choice. All those who
In the system of administration, several other desired or could efford could ride horses. Everybody
changes were made, A number of new police stations was equal in the eyes of law ; nobody was high or low.
were opened in the villages. Hardened criminals were
produced before the Governor and judgements were Tn 1821, Kashmir was faced with the worst flood,
delivered there and then after hearing the arguments of in its history. It rained continuously for several days
both the parties. Officials were forbidden to implicate and the over flowing rivers created havoc. Some dams
persons in false cases. The system of weights and were damaged and hundreds of people were encircled in
measures was regularised. Iron measures were intro- the gushing waters of the rivers. Houses were damaged
duced and a uniform yard was put into use. This gave and crops destroyed. Bridges were washed away. Sardar
relief to people who were being cheated by unscrupu Nalwa provided all possible help and assistance to the
lous traders. The result was that trade and industry people. Cash relief was given, bridges were recons-
nourished in Kashmir and many people who had fled tructed, foodgrains were imported from Panjab and
the valley during the Afghan regime returned to to their distributed freely among the people. More foodgrains
hearths and homes. Nalwa .Sardar thus gained the were purchased from non-effected areas and sold in the
76] HARI SINGH NALWA HARI SINGH BECOME KASHMIR GOVERNOR [ 77
affected areas at cheaper rates. Nalwa thus won the pleased to see the progress of the province. He appre-
hearts of the people and their sympathy. Soon the ciated Nalwa's services and offered him a khillat.
uprooted People engaged themselves in their professions According to Maulana Mohammad Din, the Maharaja
and started leading the normal life. was so overwhelmed with joy that he presented to Nalwa
a chain, an elephant, and a pair of golden bangles.
t h e r notable feature of Kashmir was that crops
A n 0
In short, Kashmir prospered considerably under
were grown on water in the lakes. Nalwa paid special
Nalwa. Trade and industry flourished. Cottage industry
attention to this form of agriculture and gave liberal
was revived. Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs started living
taccavi lo^ns to the people besides reducing their land
like brothers and in the eyes of law no distinction was
revenue. made of caste, creed or colour. It was a unique thing
The production, specially of vegetables in- to see that after so many years of communal rule,
creased and economy of the province was put on a secular rule had been established in the valley- Even
firm footing- Shias and Sunnis among the Muslims joined hands and
New fields were laid on the water and cultivaiion lived like one community. Land revenue was collected
of saffaron was encouraged. The farmers of Palmpur, without any use of force and the soldiers were paid
where saffaron was cultivated on a very large scale were regularly. There was no resentment among them and
united and Nalwa himself became their patron He they were ever ready to fight at the call of Nalwa
m
ensured t h e all help and promised to provide them Sardar. When the Maharaja found the conditions in
the necessary security against theft which was very Kashmir well settled, he decided to call back Nalwa to
common utilise his services elsewhere. Dewan Moti Ram was
[ jn the saffaron fields. again appointed Governor of Kashmir.
l industries were encouraged. Special atten-
R u r a
A Shahi firman was issued by the Maharaja saying
tion was given to paper matchie industries and fillip
that the services rendered by the Nalwa were commend-
was given to shawl manufacture. With the development
able. The Sarkar was confident that conditions in the
of these industries the condition of the people improved
valley had settled down and now anybody could be
considerably-
appointed its Governor, to administer the territory.
The administration was now on a sound footing. Still many more responsibilities awaited Nalwa in the
The rule of law prevailed and people's respect for law interest of consolidating the Sikh empire. The Maharaja
also increased. In 1821, Nalwa attacked Poonch, Rajouri would be extremely happy to see Peshawar annexed to
Dhammaur and annexed these areas to Kashmir. He the Sikh empire. It was, therefore, necessary that Nalwa
prepared a balance sheet of all the accounts of Kashmir should immediately join hands with the Maharaja in
and submitted it to the Maharaja who was extremely accomplishing the great tasks lying ahead.
^ J HARI SINGH NALWA H.ARI SINGH BECOME KASHMIR GOVERNOR [ 79
Nalwa had rendered great service to Kashmir He The darbar ended and Nevember 6, 1821, was
had not only consolidated the Sikh position there but fixed for Nalwa's departure from Kashmir. On that
also helped people to the extent possible "He was day, the people of Kashmir bade him befitting farewell.
formerly entrusted with the Government of Kashmir The entire route was lined by the people and shouts of
which he held for two years proving himself one of the long live, 'Hari Singh Nalwa' resounded in the sky.
most able and popular Sikh governors which the Sikhs Nalwa's eyes glistened with tears of joy and his heart
1
have had." was heavy. He responded to the people with wah-i-
guru-ji-ka-khalsa, wah-i-guru-ji-ki -fateh.
Hari Singh now started preparations to leave
Kashmir. All arrangements were made for the long and Nalwa left Kashmir, but also left behind a lasting
tiresome journey. When Dewan Moti Ram arrived to impression on the people of the valley. Even today he
take over charge, Nalwa held a Shahi darbar at Srinagar is remembered there as an able administrator, a valiant
in which a large number of Rais and Jagirdars of all general and a courageous hero. He left his foot prints for
communities participated. It was a memorable occasion. the people to follow. He was a secular leader who
treated everyone equally. While Muslims enjoyed full
Nalwa addressed the audience thus "The time freedom of worship the Hindu minority was also given
spent with you in Kashmir was gayful and worth re- complete protection. Nalwa will ever be remembered
membering. I have great love and respect for the people in Kashmir. His name still resounds in the hills of the
of Kashmir. You gave me full co-operation and assis- valley.
tance in running the administration. I have tried my
best to serve the people with the best of my ability
and capacity. It was a difficult task but with vour
affection and active cooperation I have succeeded in
my mission. I am hopeful that the same cooperation
would be offered to Dewan Moti Ram, my successor."
given refuge to Ahmad Yar Khan, the leader of the were sent with 8,000 soilders to attack the forts in Dera
Tiwanas. Besides, the Nawab had entered into a treaty Ismail Khan area; Dewan Chand and Kirpa Ram were
with the Afghans and was spying against the Lahore directed to attack Khangarh and Manjgarh with a 10,000
darbar. The situation was grim and unbearable for the force and Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa was required to
Maharaja. He became furious. As he had by now proceed towards Mungher with a 6,500 strong force.
captured Kashmir and Multan and was well entrenched The remaining army was kept in reserve under the
in these areas, he decided to attack Mungher and annex Maharaja himself so that, in case of any exigency,
it to the Sikh empire although the task was difficult. additional force could be despatched forthwith.
It was approached by the sandy track without any road
or other means of communications. For miles together Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa planned his strategy in
no drinking water was available which was of prime such a way that he was able to capture all the seven
necessity for the invading army. Besides the Nawab forts en route without any resistance from the enemy.
had constructed 12 forts around Mungher which were This took him just three days and on the fourth day a
strong enough to repulse any invader. Thus, capturing massive attack was launched on Mungher. Hafiz Ahmad
the territory was an uphill task. The difficult terrain, Khan offered stout resistance and his soldiers fought
lack of drinking water facility, absence of means of com- bravely. A fierce battle took place in which cannon fire
munication and Afghans support to the Nawab had dominated. The battle continued for several days. On
detained Ranjit Singh from attacking the territory the fifth day, after heavy artillery fire, the town of
earlier. Mungher was captured by the Khalsa forces. The fort
Besides other defensive measures, the Nawab had was besieged and the Nawab's forces were completely
an army of 25,000 strong ever ready to fight the invaders. demoralised. Many of his soldiers deserted him and fled
Maharaja Ranjit Singh marched on the enemy territory in whatever direction they could. Some of his principal
at the head of his 3,000 troops. When he reached Sardars, having secretly came out of the fort, joined
Khushab, Hari Singh Nalwa joined him along with his Rani it Singh and pointed out the spots on which an
troops. They discussed war strategy when Nalwa Sardar attack could be successfuly made. The dispositions for
made many useful suggesstions on December 3, 1821, the the attack were accordingly changed and the Nawab,
Khalsa forces proceeded after performing Bhog of Siri seeing treachery on all sides and conceiving that he had
Akhand Path and offering prayers to the Almighty for done enough to preserve the honour of his ancestors,
strength and courage. sent his agents, Kazi Gul Mohammad and Ali Jah
Sikander Khan, to propose terms of capitulation. These
The army was divided in such a way as to gain were : the Nawab should be allowed safe conduct from
maximum ground. Sardar Dal Singh and Khushal Singh the citadel of his camp taking with him all the members
86] HARI SINGH NALWA THE VICTORY AT MANGLI AND MUNGHER [87
1
of his family, men, arms and property ; should be per- Amritsar to be illuminated in honour of the occasion."
mitted to retain possession of Dera Ismail Khan ; and
Sardar Amar Singh Sindhawalia was appointed the
receive a suitable jagir. The Maharaja agreed to these
first Governor. Before departure from Mungher the
terms. The Nawab had studied the Sikh character, well
Maharaja held a Shahi darbar where the Maharaja
and knew of the Sikh ruler's belief in good faith. He,
praised Sardar Nalwa for his valour, presented him with
therefore, asked him to put the impression of his hand,
a Khillat and his Jagir was further extended.
with the fingers extended, on a blank piece of paper,
with safforon, as a solemn pledge for the execution of The Maharaja, along with Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa
the agreement; Ranjit Singh, anxious to set an example returned to Lahore on January 27,1821. Victory parades
of the Khalsa faith no less than to close a costly were held, processions were taken out in the bazars and
campaign in a country so ill provided with the means of the town was illuminiated.
prosecuting it, went through the formality. Rich dresses
were sent to the Nawab who, his suspicious having been
thus allayed, surrundered the fort and came out with
300 followers, bringing with him all his arms and pro-
perty. His camp pitched within the lines of the Sikhs,
he had an interview with the Maharaja on the 20th. The
Maharaja half-stood up to receive him, and was seated
close to him on the same Masnad. The Nawab implored
his conqueror to save the city from plunder, and to
provide his loyal troops with suitable employment. Both
these requests were granted by the Maharaja who, as a
further proof of his friendship for the Nawab, discarded
those who had joined him as deserters from their now
vanquished sovereign. The Nawab made over 22 guns,
with a large quantity of ammuniation, to the Maharaja,
and was sent to Dera Ismail Khan under proper escort
with the whole of his harem, family and attendants.
"The country of Nawab Hafiz Ahmad Khan, annexed
by the Maharaja, was worth annually ten lakhs of rupees,
and its acquisition was the source of intense pleasure to
Ranjit Singh, who ordered the towns of Lahore and 1. Latif. M o h d . History of the Panj.b. P. 4 2 6
HARI SINGH BECOMES GOVERNOR OF HAZARA f 89
_
92 ] HARI SINGH NALWA HARI SINGH BECOMES GOVERNOR OE HAZARA [ 93
The Maharaja now appointed Sardar Hari Singh near the fort which was named Haripur. When Baron
Nalwa as the Governor of Hazara. As desired by the Hugal visited the Hazara territory on December 23,
Maharaja, Nalwa reached Hazara on February 26 1822 1835 he found the town of Haripur flourishing. He said
along with his contingent. After taking stock of the that no other town was as humming with activity as
situation for a couple of days, Nalwa's first action in Haripur. Around the town a wall four yards thick and
Hazara was to attack the territory of Hashim Khan 16 yards high was built. Four gates were constructed for
Karal, who had tracherously slain Sardar Amar Singh entry into the town. Drinking water was provided by
The area was surrounded in a mater of minutes and digging a tank. Many small drains were dug to carry
Hashim Khan was arrested, his area was set on fire and water into the streets of the town. A shrine named
he was presented before the Nalwa Sardar He was Shaidganj was constructed in the memory of all those
trembling with fear. Nalwa gave him an option of either who had laid down their lives for the liberation of
producing before him the murderers of Sardar Amar Hazara. A permanent grant hi was employed to ensure
Singh or himself facing the uninterrupted kirtan and path. A mandir called Ganesh
consequences by standing Giri was also built. A mosque was constructed too. This
before the cannon and getting killed. Putting his hands was a concrete step in the direction of real integration
on the Quran, he promised to produce the real culprits of the people of all castes and creeds. Nalwa thus won
in a matter of days. Nalwa readily agreed Hashim the hearts of all sections of people.
Khan was allowed to go with a Sikh and soon the real Many gardens and parks were laid to beautify the
culprits were produced before Nalwa Further investi- town. Some more forts were constructed at Nawan Shair,
gations established their guilt. The Nalwa Sardar held
Dhamtor, Darband and Sheenkiari. The whole of the
a big darbar in which all the inhabitants of the area
year 1822 was spent in restoring peace in the area.
were ordered to participate. The darbar was attended
by a large number of people. The culprits were fired However, peace was broken shortly afterwards.
upon by guns to teach a lesson to all The people were Sardar Mohammad Khan, who had earlier had revolted
so much terrified that for years they did not rise aeainst against tke Khalsa, became nervous and paniky when
the Khalsa. Hashim Khan promised to remain loyal to the people responsible for the murder of Sardar Amar
the darbar. His territory was annexed to the Sikh Singh were given severe punishment. He lodged a com-
empire and he was let off. A big fort was got construc- plaint with the Maharaja against the Nalwa Sardar and
ted at Narra and army was stationed in it. was given a patient hearing by the Maharaja who sent
To provide permanent defences in the plains of instructions to Nalwa to grant Sardar Mohammad
Hazara, a fort was constructed and named Harkrishan Khan a Jagir worth 2,000 rupees annually. Nalwa re-
garh after the eighth Guru. A town was also constructed luctantly offered a Jagir worth 1,700 rupees which he
:
94] HARI SINGH NALWA
was Landi stream and on its western banks were station- and dashed into the enemy ranks. The Afghans fell on
ed the Afghans. The Maharaja held consultations with the Akalis and hand-to-hand fight ensued. The Akalis
his generals and decided that Afghans on the western were surrounded by 1530 Afghan horsemen against
banks of Landi should not be allowed to cross it and shouts of Sat Siri Akal and Allah-o-Akbar. Many
join the Afghans at Naushera. The Afghans on both Afghans lost their lives but in the encounter another
sides of the stream somehow joined, the situation for the musket ball hit the brave general who in the thick of
Khalsa would be beyond control. So they had to strike firing captured the hillock. But the general lost his life
without any loss of time. along with a number of his devoted soldiers. He was
the hero of Multan and Kashmir and had proved his
The Khalsa army surrounded Naushera and mettle in earlier battles. But his courage and bravery at
encamped on the bank of the river Landi. The artillery Naushera surpassed all his earlier achievements. The
was put into action. Guns were fired opposite the loss of Akali Phula Singh was unbearable for Ranjit
Afghans. The Afghans were entrenched on the Pir Singh who when informed of the death of his brave
Sabad hillock. The army of the Sikhs was estimated to general became remorseful but bowed before the will of
be around 25,000 strong while the Afghans strength God. He ordered a samadh to be constructed at the
was not less than 40,000. The Ghazis were asked to place where the gallant general had lost his life.
wage a holy war against the infidels and were instigated
in the name of jehad. They were told to 'do or die' for
Then, the Sikh troops advanced under Prince
the sake of their religion. Khatak chief's son Feroze
Kharak Singh but the Afghans did not budge an inch.
Khan with a considerable number of Mujahids had
Half the Afghans were slain but the remaining could
joined the Afghan regulars. On the other side, the
not be dislodged from their position on the high ground.
contingent of the Khalsa army were commanded by its
More Sikh forces were rushed. The battle lasted the
dashing and dynamic general Akali Phula Singh. He
whole day Some 2,000 Sikh soldiers laid down their
had a suicidal squad at his command which was imbued
lives Then by the evening many Afghans were dislodg-
with the desire to fight and die for the sake of the Panth.
ed from their positions. The remaining Ghazis fought
However, Akali Phula Singh's courage and bravery their way out of the Sikh posts and fled in the hills to
at Naushera surpassed his earlier achievements. Attempts save their lives. The victory was of the Khalsa.
were made to dislodge the Afghans from the hillock but
nothing substantial could be achieved. Ultimately, Akali When Wazir Khan came to know of the happen-
Phula Singh with his band of desperadoes moved along ings at Naushera, he rushed from Peshawar to join his
the foot of the hill. A musket ball struck him down co-religionists and his brother who was commanding the
his horse but not caring for his life he rode an elephant Afghans. But he was not allowed to cross the river by
100] HARI SINGH NALWA THE BATTLE OF NAUSHERA [ 101
the troops in the command of Hari Singh Nalwa. transfixed them with lances. Hari Singh Nalwa once
Nalwa's soldiers showered fire on Azim Khan's forces again established his courage, valour and determination.
like rain in the month of sawan and many in the enemy Azim Khan watched from a distance the slaughter of
ranks were killed. Ranjit Singh himself appeared on the his Mujahids. In between was the stream, which he was
scene, rode up to the top of the mouud, ordered his not allowed to cross. When he saw his Ghazis fleeing
tfoops to march forward. The hills resounded with the attempting to cross the river and some of them
cries of Sat Siri Akal. Ranjit Singh acknowledged the drowning, his head hung in shame. The shock was too
greetings of his troops by raising his naked kirpan to his great for him to bear. He was broken-hearted and died
forehead. Fierce fighting followed. Moorcroft, who was some time afterwards. The battle of Naushera sounded
present on the battlefield, wrote to the Governor- the death knell of the Afghans. Three days later, the
General ; "The matchlock, the brow, the spear, the victorious Maharaja, alongwith his general Hari Singh
sword, the knife and even the staff of an undisciplined Nalwa, entered Peshawar, The citizens gave them a
multitude were about to be opposed by the cannon, the rousing reception, presenting the Maharaja many gifts.
musket, the matchlock and the sobre directed by dis- At night the bazars and streets of the town were illumi-
ciplined artillerists-under the command of Ranjit Singh niated. Fire works were displayed. Shouts of Sat Siri
1
himself and consisting of the flower of the Sikh army." Akal resounded in the sky in this far flung area inhabited
by the Pathans, who had no respect for the law. The
Infantry fire was opened. The Sikh cavalry charged.
name of Hari Singh Nalwa became a byword for the
One line of horsemen galloped up to the enemy, fired,
Pathans who to this day remember him as the bravest
wheeled and turned back. The same thing was repeated
again and again. The Afghans concluded that such a of the brave. He alone could instil discipline in them
combat would not be beneficial to them. They climbed and order them to obey the law of the land.
down the hillock and attacked the Sikhs with all their
After a couple of days, both Yar Mohammed and
forces. Two of the Sikh guns were captured but in a
Dost Mohammed appeared before.the Maharaja, repent-
matter of moments they were recaptured by the Sikhs.
Gun fire continued. The Afghans were within the firing ed for their misdeeds and sought his forgiveness. The
range of the Sikh army. Maharaja, generous and liberal as he was, pardoned
them who promised to pay him tribute regularly in
The G/rozfc made a desperate efforts to dislodge future. Beautiful horses were presented to the Maharaja
the Sikhs from their vantage position but all in vain. including the prestigious Gauharbar. Shahi darbar was
The Sikh cavalry rode into the ranks of the Ghazis and held and Yar Mohammed was appointed as Governor
of Peshawar as he promised to pay a revenue of one
1. October 29, 1824,
lakh and ten thousand rupees to the Maharaja.
L
102] HARI SINGH NALWA
to be proposed an interview between His Highness and vicinity was raised a garden where wheat was specially
himself. The rising fortunes of Ranjit Singh and the sown in plots looking like birds, horses and other
establishment of his power this side of the Indus were animals.
considerations which led to the Governor-General to
Maharaja Ranjit Singh reached Rupar on October
propose a formal meeting at a time when the probable
designs of Russia and Persia, and the further advance 25, 1831, in the early hours of the morning, accom-
of that power towards the East were the subjects of panied by 16,000 Cavalry, 6,000 infantry men, his
warm discussion in political circles, and it was thought Ministers, the Rulers of Jind, Ladwa and Kaithal, Prince
fit to give the world an impression that complete un- Kharak Singh and other Princes, the Dogra Rajas, the
animity existed between the two States."* Majithias, Sandhawalias, Kallianwalas and the Attari-
wala Sardars. General Hari Singh Nalwa was the most
The Governor-General directed Captain Wade to prominent figure included in the entourage. The Nalwa
proceed to Lahore immediately and to suggest to the Sardar was taken along by the Maharaja for consulta-
Maharaja that the Governor-General himself would be tions on strategic points.
glad to call on the Maharaja if only he was invited by
The Governor-General's party included his
him.
Principal Secretaries and several army officials, their
However, the suggestion was not appreciated by total number being 60. The escort consisted of 2
the Maharaja's courtiers, some of whom opposed it squadrons of European Lancers, a mounted band of His
tooth and nail on the plea that the Maharaja should not Majesty's 16 Lancers, an European regiment two
meet a mere battalions of infantry of Indians, eight guns of horse
Governor-General. Hari Singh Nalwa was artillery and two squadrons of Skinner's Irregular Horse.
one of them. However, the Maharaja set aside all the
arguments and agreed to meet the Governor-General. Next morning, on October 26, 1831, the Maharaja
This was a historic decision. It was agreed that the ceremoniously worshipped the horse and the sword and,
meeting should take place at Rupar on October 26,1831. accompanied by 1000 horsemen wearing coats of mail
li-jd ' '--'' ' trl.' mid oi iy
l i t i 1 ]
hiff-ijB covered with silk, crossed the bridge riding on a gold-
Tmeeting at Rupar was full of glamour and
h e caprisoned elephant. Across the bridge, Lord Willian
gaiety. A bridge of ferry boats was constructed over the Bentinck, also mounted on an elephant, received the
Sutlej and the Maharaja's camp was set on the opposite Maharaja. The British troops lined both sides of the
side of the river. A silver pavilian was constructed in an road. In the end, the Maharaja stood up on his elephant
open field for parade and tents of dark red with mar- and went over to the Governor-General who embraced
quees of yellow silk and satin were pitched. In the the Maharaja. It is said that a union took place of the
1. L a t i f , M o h d . , H i s t o r y o f t h e P a n j a b . P . 451
108 ] HARI SINGH NALWA HABI SINGH VISITS SIMLA AND RTJPAR [ 109
to be, proposed an interview between His Highness and vicinity was raised a garden where wheat was specially
himself. The rising fortunes of Ranjit Singh and the sown in plots looking like birds, horses and other
establishment of his power this side of the Indus were animals.
considerations which led to the Governor-General to
propose a formal meeting at a time when the probable Maharaja Ranjit Singh reached Rupar on October
designs of Russia and Persia, and the further advance 25, 1831, in the early hours of the morning, accom-
of that power towards the East were the subjects of panied by 16,000 Cavalry, 6,000 infantry men, his
warm discussion in political circles, and it was thought Ministers, the Rulers of Jind, Ladwa and Kaithal, Prince
fit to give the world an impression that complete un- Kharak Singh and other Princes, the Dogra Rajas, the
animity existed between the two States Majithias, Sandhawalias, Kallianwalas and the Attari-
wala Sardars. General Hari Singh Nalwa was the most
The Governor-General directed Captain Wade to prominent figure included in the entourage. The Nalwa
proceed to Lahore immediately and to suggest to the Sardar was taken along by the Maharaja for consulta-
Maharaja that the Governor-General himself would be tions on strategic points.
glad to call on the Maharaja if only he was invited by
him. The Governor-General's party included his
Principal Secretaries and several army officials, their
However, the suggestion was not appreciated by total number being 60. The escort consisted of 2
the Maharaja's courtiers, some of whom opposed it squadrons of European Lancers, a mounted band of His
tooth and nail on the plea that the Maharaja should not Majesty's 16 Lancers, an European regiment two
meet a mere Governor-General. Hari Singh Nalwa was battalions of infantry of Indians, eight guns of horse
one of them. However, the Maharaja set aside all the artillery and two squadrons of Skinner's Irregular Horse.
arguments and agreed to meet the Governor-General.
This was a historic decision. It was agreed that the Next morning, on October 26, 1831, the Maharaja
meeting should take place at Rupar on October 26, 1831. ceremoniously worshipped the horse and the sword and,
accompanied by 1000 horsemen wearing coats of mail
The meeting at Rupar was full of glamour and
covered with silk, crossed the bridge riding on a gold-
gaiety. A bridge of ferry boats was constructed over the
caprisoned elephant. Across the bridge, Lord Willian
Sutlej and the Maharaja's camp was set on the opposite
Bentinck, also mounted on an elephant, received the
side of the river. A silver pavilian was constructed in an
open field for parade and tents of dark red with mar- Maharaja. The British troops lined both sides of the
quees of yellow silk and satin were pitched. In the road. In the end, the Maharaja stood up on his elephant
and went over to the Governor-General who embraced
1. Latif, M o h d . , History of the Panjab, P. 4 5 1 the Maharaja. It is said thai a union took place of the
110 ] HARI SINGH NALWA
HARI SINGH VISITS SIMLA AN I) RUPAR [111
two auspicious stars in the Zodaic sign of Pisces. The rode on the same elephant. The road was flanked by
Maharaja was then conducted into the tent by the the Maharaja's infantry and cavalry. The Governor-
Governor-General. They enquired about each other's General was taken to the silver pavilian. The Sardars
health and then the Governor-General presented two of the court and other civil and army officers presented
hundred trays containing gifts which included silk, nazars and the Maharaja presented to him 43 pieces of
double-barrelled guns, pistols a n d 51 suits, ornaments, robes of honour, 7 pieces of jewellery, 2 beje-welled
two horses with gold and an elephant with red valvet swords, persian guns with golden carvings, pashmina
trappings. This was followed by reciprocal sarwarna of goods and an elephant with a silver howda. The Maha-
1100 gold ducates. raja himself put a pearl necklace around the neck of
Lord Bentinck. The British party was entertained by
The meeting lasted about an hour or so. But no Kashmiri dancing girls.
serious discussion took place. It seemed as if it was just
a get-together. In the end, son-e dancing girls, brought During the next four days, the troops were paraded.
bv the British party, danced vs/hich was highly appre- This was very much to the liking of the Maharaja. He
ciated and enjoyed by the Sardars. The honourable minutely inspected the British troops and asked many
ladies accompanying the Governor-General party pre- thought-provoking questions about the British arms and
sented a few items of English folk dance and songs ammunition and other war machinery. He requested
which further thrilled the Maharaja's party. A lot of repeated feats of the British troops, especially the
goodwill was created^ The Maharaja then took leave of square formation in which they were well-versed. "They
the Governor-General, crossed the river in a canopied are like walls of iron, he remarked. He was so pleased
boat and reached his own camp alongwith his Sardars. with their drill that he gave Rs. 11,000 to be distri-
buted to the British soldiers. In every way, Ranjit
It is said that the Maharaja wanted to discuss with
proved himself to be a far superior soldier to any other
the Governor-General, in the presence of Sardar Nalwa,
native. He seemed as if gifted with the intelligence of
the Sind problem and the political complications being
an English Field Marshall and, in fact, he moved about
created by the East India Company. But the Governor- 1
as if he was himself in command of the troops."
General evaded the issue and r e g a i n e d silent. Though
captain Wade Governor-General's agent in Ludhiana, The same evening the Maharaja threw a party in
was present 'at the meeting, he too side-tracked the honour of Lord and Lady Bentinck. A well-decorated
issue. special tent was set up. A carpet of gold brocade was
laid on the ground and a gilded throne and two bed-
The next day, the Governor-General paid return
steads studded with precious stones provided for the
visit escorted by Prince Kharak Singh. He was received
on the bank of the river by tJie Maharaja when both .1. S k i n n e r , Diary, V o l . I enteries October 26 to 30
T
HA EI SINGH Jv AL\v A
tained them with folk songs and dances. Wine w as took what was dearest to himand left protesting their
served lavishly in golden cups. The Mah raja W u goodwill." 1
the British had intentions of extending their territory attended the interview."
over Sind. '-No," came the prompt reply from wade.
It assured the Maharaja that the object was purely The Lahore darbar was not happy over the turn
of events.
commercial and Amirs of Sind had been persuaded to
accept this contention and Bentinck did not open tyj
mouth but it was made clear to the Maharaja that nis
empires' southern boundry was final._ However.
M a h
treaty of lasting friendship was signed. The * ^
got nothing. Most of the Sardars, foremost among
Sardar Nalwa, were not happy at the outcome: o
meeting which was much talked about and on arr =
which huge sum of money had been spent.
1
Ratij'
"A sense of disappointmen soon set in. the 2. s ! c
U
r
S
e
h
,7 n t S i n g h
' R a n j US i n g h
' - P 1 7 6
out the area that Nalwa was very much alive and once released on the specific condition that he would pay a
again fear of his presence was felt forcing many Ghazis tribute of Rs. 55,000 to the Lahore darbar and maintain
to hide themselves. peace. However, on reaching Hazara, Mohammad
Khan Tarin refused to pay the tribute and joined the
When the news of Nalwa's injury reached Lahore
rebellious army. Nalwa then attacked Sirikote. Soon
darbar, there was great anxiety regarding his health.
Mohammad Khan and Bostan Khan were arrested and
The Maharaja himself was perturbed and he marched
produced before the Nalwa Sardar. Mohammad Khan
towards Hazara alongwith his body guards. When the
was given a day's time to explain his conduct. But next
Maharaja reached there, he found Nalwa quite hale and
day before the sun dawned, the Khan took poison and
hearty and was extremely happy to see him. This was a
committed suicide. The other rebellious leaders were
measure of the respect Nalwa commanded at the hands
made to stand before the Tops and killed. Once again
of Ranjit Singh. The Maharaja expressed a desire to
peace was restored.
visit the border areas. By that time, the rebellion had
been crushed and Mohammad Khan Tarin had been put In 1828, the Maharaja directed Nalwa and
behind bars. The fort of Sirikote was further strength- Jamadar Khushal Singh to proceed to Katoch's terri-
ened and 500 soldiers stationed there to protect the fort tory in Kangra. Nalwa reached Lahore and joined the
from any onslaught. The Maharaja enjoyed the scenic forces of Khushal Singh. The Khalsa army marched
beauty of the area and went on hunting expeditions. towards Kangra, occupied several forts and annexed
After staying there for a couple of days, he returned to the territories of Nadaun, Guler and Lambagaon to the
Lahore. Mohammad Khan Tarin was also taken there. Sikh empire. Nalwa returned to Lahore victorious.
The Maharaja was very much pleased with him and
In 1825, Nalwa toured the Karal's area where
duly honoured him.
complete peace had been restored. Jagirs were bestowed
and then at the same time they were strictly warned to Nalwa then went back to Hazara. Hardly had he
remain peaceful in future. The same year Nalwa paid spent there a few days when news came from beyond
a visit to Gujranwala, his hometown. In his absence, Attock that an outsider was instigating the Pathans to
the reins of administration were given to Sardar Maha rise in revolt against the Sikhs. Sayeed Ahmad Shah
Singh Mirpuria. Hardly had Nalwa spent a few days who belonged to Barailly, was the head of the rebellious
in Gujranwala when news came that a rebellion had Pathans. He also met Amir Dost Mohammad Khan
spread in Sirikote under the leadership of Bostan Khan in Kabul, who promised him all help in fighting against
Tarin, nephew of Mohammad Khan Tarin. Nalwa the Sikhs. He further directed his brother Sultan
hastened back to Hazara. But before going there he Mohammad Khan and Yar Mohammad Khan to do
went to Lahore. There he got Mohammad Khan Tarin the same. All joined at Landikotal and proceeded to-
AGAIN IN HAZARABUILDS SHRINE AT PAJA SAHIB [119
18] HARI SINGH NALWA
Ahamad Shah should be pursued in whichever direction
wards Panjtar which was occupied by Zusafzai tribes. he had gone to see that he was unable to regroup his
Fateh Khan was their head. A huge congregation of forces.
Pathans was arranged in which the Sayeed declared
that he had been sent by God himself to fight against Leading a 6,000 strong force, Nalwa crossed the
the infiedels and finish them. Instigating them in the Landa river and pursued the Sayeed. When the Sayeed
name of religion, he promised them a place in the came to know the presence of Nalwa in the vicinity of
heaven if they fought against the Sikhs courageously. his hide-out, he rushed further ahead. Nalwa followed
Thereupon the cry of jehad was raised and thousands him with all the speed. The Sayeed encamped at village
of Pathans joined the Sayeed. Tulandi and raised the cry of Jehad. He was able to
A few days earlier, the Sikhs and constructed a collect 14000 Ghazis. Moulvi Ismail also took sides with
fort at Khairabad and Sardar Budh Singh Sandhawalia him. The Ghazis faced the Nalwa army but the Sayeed
was made incharge of the fort. To fight against the fled to Panjtar hills. Nalwa ordered his horsemen to
Sikhs, it was necessary for the Pathans to first occupy attack with vigour, himself commanding the cavalary.
this fort. Nalwa also reached Khairabad with a strong The Ghazis fought bravely and offered stout resistance
force of 8,000. Next day was Friday. The Pathans had but ultimately Nalwa carried the day. The Nalwa army
hardly performed their morning prayer when Nalwa's forced the Ghazis to flee and followed them with lighten-
forces attacked them. A fierce battle ensued. Several ing speed.
men were slain on both sides. Riding the horse, Nalwa
exhorted his men to fight to the end. Fighting conti- The victorious Khalsa army reached ahead and
nued the whole day and in the evening it started raining proceeded towards Panjtar. The Ghazis were surround-
heavily. The guns stopped and firing discontinued. ed by the Nalwa's horsemen after some time. The
The Pathans took this opportunity as a boon and fled in Ghazis were totally demoralised and were left with no
storm and rain in whatever direction they could. The strength to face the valiant Sikh army. Only Mubark
Sayeed ran away towards Mardan to save his life. Ac- Khan of Panjtar offered some resistance. He tried his
cording to Alexander Burnes, while the Pathans were best to keep up the morale of the Ghazis but they could
15,000 strong, the Sikhs had only an army of 8,000. It
not persuade them to stay in the battlefield. Mubarak
was thus a great victory of Nalwa whose prestige went
Khan himself was injured. Thereafter the Khalsa army
up tremendously, making him the most honoured general
captured Panjtar and took possession of the guns besides
of the Sikh darbar.
a huge stock of foodgrains. Nalwa recognised the
Nalwa then discussed with other generals includ- administration and remained there for a month or so
ing Sardar Budh Singh as to how the Afghan menace and returned to Hazara.
could be finished forever. It was agreed that Sayeed
120] HAZARABUILDS SHRINE AT PAN J A SAHIB [121
HARI SINGH NALWA
When the Maharaja was informed about Nalwa's direction they could. The Khalsa army followed
latest achievements, his joy knew no bounds and sent a deer> into the hills. Many more were cut to
t l i p m
Khillat to the Nalwa Sardar. The battle of Panjtar was Pieces The Khalsa army was thus victorious. In the
fought in 1829. battle' the Sayeed, Maulvi Ismail and Bairam Khan
1
were killed. About 3,000 of their followers lost their
The trouble in Hazara was not over yet. It was lives The Khalsa lost 800 men with many injured.
like a lull before the storm. The Ghazis were bent upon Sardar Partap Singh Attari, the brave TSikh commander
taking revenge. After being defeated, Sayeed Ahmad lost his life.'
Shah hid himself in the Buner hills. In 1833, he along-
After the battle was over, Prince Sher Singh and
with his several thousand followers, reached the border
ofKagan and captured few villages. Kagani Sayeeds Sardar "Nalwa ordered their court painters to paint the
and Sawati also joined hands with the Sayeed. When likenesses of both the Sayeed and Maulvi Ismail. When
informed of the situation, the Maharaja sent reinforce- the naintines were ready they were sent to the Mana-
ments under the command of Prince Sher Singh, Sardars ma at Lahore. Their bodies were buried with full
Rattan Singh, Partap Singh Attari, Attar Singh Kalian- militarv honours at village Talhat. When the news of
wala, Jawala Singh and Sham Singh Nihang. This force his brave generals reached the Maharaja he not only
consisted of 10,000 strongmen. War preparations were presented Khillats to them but "also sent a prize of
made and on May 30, 1831 Prince Sher Singh and Hari Rs. 50,000 to Sher Singh and Hari Singh for his victory
2
Singh Nalwa attacked Balakote. The Mujahads fought over the Sayeed."
bravely and put up a stout defence, trying to check the
The battle proved a landmark in the history of
advance of the Khalsa army. A fierce battle was fought.
the Sikhs "It ended the career of Sayeed Ahmad, the
Many were slain on both sides. War feats of Prince
Sher Singh and Nalwa surprised one and all. The battle imposter who in the garb of religion, had endeavourd
continued for the whole day. The Mujahads too fought to promote his own private ends and those of his
with courage and devotion. But the battle remained followers. His existence as the supporter of the Wahabi
indecisive. In the meantime, the Sayeed came face to persuasion was as dangerous to the Mussalman commu-
faee with Prince Sher Singh when hand-to-hand fight nity who followed the precepts of the Quran and the
took place. With one stroke of his sword the Prince Hadis as propounded by the early writers of the faith, as
cut off the Sayeed's head. Ghazis were totally demora- it was to the non-Mussalman public. Immediately after
lised and started fleeing from the battlefield. On the his death became known, his deputies were expelled
other hand, Maulvi Ismail faced Sardar Nalwa. He
offered stout resistance but was killed too in the en- 1. District Gazeteer. Peshawar. P. 64
2. Punjab History. Book N o . 1 3 7 . letter N o . 117
counter. The Ghazis started funning in whatever
122] HARI SINGH NALWA
AGAIN IN HAZARABUILDS SHRINE AT PAN J A SAHIB [ 123
from the hills on the frontier, his Ghazis fled in disguise
and his family sought protection with its old master So far the place had remained neglected. In 1832, Nalwa
the Nawab of Tonk. The neighbourhood of Peshawar got constructed a shrine in memory of the great Master
was quiet after the Syad's death, and Ranjit Singh and installed Sir'i Guru Granth Sahib in it. The hand
entered upon no military enterprise of importance after impression of the Master on the stone was still intact.
1
taking the field against this pretender." A tank was constructed in which flowed the crystal
clear water right from the Panja. Around the tank were
Alexander Gardner has described the action at made steps on which was fixed marble brought from
Balakote in these memorable words "Sayeed Ahmad
Rajputana. To maintain the building properly a Jagir
and his Moulvi, surrounded by his surviving Indian
of Rs. 500 was attached with the shrine. When in 1832,
followers, were fighting desparately hand to hand with
Bhog of Guru Granth Sahib was performed to celebrate
the equally fanatical Akalis of the Sikh army They
the occasion, Nalwa presented utencils for the langer
had been taken by surprise and isolated from the main
and many valuable carpets besides Rs, 2,500 in cash.
body of the Sayeed's forces, which fought very boldly
without their leader. Even as I caught sight of the Sved Bhai Mahan Singh was appointed administrator of the
and the moulvi they fell pierced by a hundred weapons shrine with Sadhu Singh Akali looking after the security
Those around them were slain to a man and the main arrangements. Another Jagir was attached to the shrine
body dispersed in every direction-I saw literally within to meet the expenditure on administration. After the
a few yards of the Syed when he fell, but I did not see construction of the shrine was completed, it became a
the angel descend and carry him off to paradise routine with the Nalwa Sardar to perform Bhog before
although many of his followers remember afterwards lauuehing any campaign. Thousands of devotees started
that they had seen it distinctly enough." 2
paying homage to the memory of the great Guru.
Nalwa as a Governor of Hazara, worked wonders Baron Hugal paid a visit to to the shrine in 1835
He helped Ranjit Singh to consolidate his empire. The after the building was constructed. He records : "I had
Pathan menace was eradicated and an efficient adminis- appointed the morning for my visit to the Sikh Guru,
tration established. People were given justice besides at which ceremony the whole population of Hassan
the rule of law. Nalwa had a religious bent of mind he abdal was present. When I came to the marble steps
did not miss any occasion provided to him to serve the leading to this darbar ; which was held before the cele-
cause of the Panth. Nearby was the holy place of brated stone, and saw them there seated on carpets, 1
Hassan Abdal sanctified by fthe visit of Guru Nanak. took of my shoes, a courtesy which gained for me with
every mark of dignity, and accepted a present, which
IS Latif M o h d : H i s t o r y of the Panjab P.|443
2. Gardner, Alexander: Memories PP 71-72
was certainly well bestowed, if only for the sight of the
stone, on which the above named marvel still remains
124 ] HARI SINGH NALWA AGAIN IN HAZARABUILDS SHRINE AT PANJA SAHIB [ 125
1
imprinted." surrounded their territory which was annexed .without
much resistance after many were killed. A fort was
With the passage of time, people started visiting
constructed at Khanpur in which the Sikh army was
the shrine in thousands. In 1839, Shahamat Ali had an
occasion to visit the shrine. He tells u s : "Hassan Abdal stationed. The Ghakkars promised to behave in future.
has a fine bazar where plenty of supplies can be pro- Nalwa pardoned them and bestowed Jagirs on them.
cured. To the eastward of the place is a large Now the entire Hazara territory came under the
spring situated in a grove of shady trees. Just sway of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Nalwa administered
above the spring is the impression of a hand which the
it efficiently and diligently, crushing all rebellions. When
Sikhs say is that of Baba Nanak, their first Guru, and
things settled down, the Maharaja called Nalwa to
hence Hassan Abdal is called Panja Sahib by the Sikhs.
Lahore. A darbar was held in which he was praised and
This is another instance of the truth of the observation,
honoured. Nalwa remained humble in his victory and
that people appropriate traditions and legends to their
own faith. They say that Nanak, when proceeding about moments of greatness. Now he was the most beloved
the country, being wearied one day, asked the Faqir general of the Khalsa army.
on the hill to give him a cup of water. The Faqir was
surly, and an altercation ensued between them, when
the Faqir told him that if Nanak was a man of any
miracle he would supply his wants without any assis-
tance, and would even move the hills. Nanak put out
his hand and stamped his fingers on the rock, where the
mark still remains ; and in commemoration of the Baba
the late Sardar Hari Singh built a small temple, which
2
he named Panja Sahib, from the five fingers." The
management of the shrine was taken over by SGPC in
1921.
and other tribal adherents instantly denounced him as surprise at a place near Balakot and surrounded by a
an imposter and an adventurer and clamoured for his large party of Sikhs, who had crossed the river Indus on
massaks, or inflated skins. In his anxiety to rejoin his
expulsion from the region. Sayeed Ahmad opened up
master Muhammad Ismail had left me and my force a
negotiations in November 1830 with Sultan Muhammad
much behind and, owing to the mistake or treachery
Khan, hastily surrundered Peshawar to him on a promise
1 of a guide, we took longer than was expected in
of tribute, and fled across the Indus."
coming up."
The Sikhs were not sitting idle. They were yearn-
I well remember the scene as 1 and my Eusufzai
ing to establish the Sikh rule in this far flung area. and Khaibari followers came in view of the action.
Ranjit Singh himself marched towards Peshawar to
pursue the khalifa and teach him a lesson. But before Syad Ahmad and the maulvi, surrounded by his
the Maharaja could reach there, the khalifa once again surviving Indian followers, were fighting desperately
fled to the hills. The Maharaja returned to Lahore. The hand to hand with the equally fanatical Akalis of the
khalifa entered Peshawar and forcibly collected a nazrana Sikh army. They had been taken by surprise and isolated
of Rs. 3,000 from the Governor and again disappeared from the main body of the Syad s forces, which fought
to the hills. This hide and seek game by the khaVfa was very badly without their leader. Even as 1 caught sight
not liked by the Yusafzais who deserted him in large of the Syad and maulvi they fell pierced by a hundred
numbers. There was revolt against him and even the weapons. Those around them were slain to a man, and
Qazis and the Mullah as denounced him. He was turned the main body dispersed in every direction.
out of the region and was forced to take shelter in the
areas surrounding the Kashmir valley. He joined hands With some difficulty I kept my party together
with the Muzaffarabad chief. However, he was not and withdrew to the hills, showing to hold a front to
allowed to rest in peace, was followed by Prince Sher the Sikhs that they did not dare to follow us far. The
Singh and was killed in action at Balakot. This was the Eusafzai mountain-passes always gave the Sikhs cholera,
end of the man who had pronounced that he would as Avitabile used to say :
finish the infidels and wipe them out. In the words of I saw literally within a few hundred yards of the
Alexander Gardner : Syad when he fell, But I did not see the angel descend
and carry him off to paradise, although many of his
"However, as it turned out, we set out to join the followers remembered afterwards that they had seen it
holy standard just an hour too late, for the Syad and his distinctly enough.
faithful maulvi were slain, fighting bravely side by side
before we could join in the fight, They were taken by I remained two nights at Panchthar, where I
rested my men after their exertions, and divided the
1. H a s r a t , B i k r a m j i t , Life a n d T i m e s o f R a n j i t S i n g h P P 1 2 4 - 1 2 5
134 ] HARI SINGH NALWA PESHAWAR IS ATTACKED AND ANNEXED 135
booty between them. The death of the Syad broke the became clear to the Maharaja that Peshawar had to be
only link that held his followers together, and in the annexed to his empire at any cost. The Barakzais were
retreat many of the parties from different regions fell ruling Peshawar on behalf of Lahore darbar. Dost
upon one another for plunder. My Khaibaries and Mohammad Khan, the Barakzai, had by now taken
Eusafzais were equal to the best in this matter, and cut possession of Ghazni, Kabul and Jalalabad. He now
down several of the Hindustani fanatics who had joined wished to re-establish his control over the Afghan
them for protection, and whose clothing or equipment dependencies. Dost Mohammad's desire to capture
seemed to them a desirable acquisition." 1 Peshawar made him to seek British help. The fear of
Persian designs on Afghanistan was still lurking in his
The Sikh victory was complete. Celebrations were mind. He requested the British to help him to capture
organised in Lahore at a large scale. Peshwar. He declared his intention of raising a cry of
rehad against the Sikhs. The British news-writers in
"A swift-bird (messenger) came from Kanwar Kabul, Massan and British Political agent at Ludhiana,
Sher Singh with a letter announcing victory over the captain Wade recommended to the government to accept
wicked khalifa, and all the details about that country Dost Mohammad's proposal. But the British govern-
became clear bit by bit. A special role of honour was ment refused to meddle in the affairs of Sikhs and
entrusted to a man with a letter of praise and appre- Afghans.
ciation for Kanwar Sahib Sher Singh. And the grant
of the country of tirah was made to the said Kanwar On the other hand, Barakzais Sultan Mohammad
Sher Singh and a discharge of Topkhana took place. Khan and Jabbar Khan were feeling panicky as Yusaf-
Letters were issued to the Sardars of Lahore, Multan, zais had threatened them not to pay tribute to the
Kashmir and Attock, informing them about the victory Lahore darbar. They had fear about the intentions of
over the khalifa, and asking them to discharge guns and Dost Mohammad too. They therefore, tried to make
make illuminations. On the fourth of the said month contact with the British Government and secretly made
May 15, 1831 all the Sardars presented themselves overtures but the British Government did not pay any
to the Maharaja in the garden at Batala and unani- heed to them. At this stage, the British Government
mously remarked that the good services which Kanwar was very cautious of maintaining good relations with
Sher Singh had rendered could not a accompalished Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
2
by anybody else."
Moreover, Shuja-u-Mulk, the Kabul King who was
With the final liquidation of Sayeed Ahmad, it deposed earlier and had become the stipendency of the
British Government at Ludhiana was still making efforts
1. Alexander GardnerMemories PP 1 7 2 - 1 7 3 .
2. Suri Sohan Lai, u m d a t - u t - T a w a r i k h P. 3 4 . to regain control of his lost empire. He was itching
136] HARI SINGH NALWA PESHAWAR IS ATTACKED AND ANNEXED [ 137
to become the king once again. In 1826, Maharaja shown many favours yet he had not granted to him a
Ranjit Singh assured him that he would help him in his crown upto that time. If the crown was granted to him
efforts. But the Shah did not accept the Maharaja's it would make the good name of the Maharaja live for
offer as he feared the British wrath which might ulti- ever in the world. He must enthrone the Shah in Kabul
mately lead to his exit from Ludhiana. by his royal support. He assured him further that the
Shah or any of his descendants would not interfere in
In July 1827, Shah sent a messenger to the
the country under the sway of the Maharaja. The
Governor-General at Simla that he intended to gain Maharaja felt very happy and said that the thing would
control of his lost kingdom with the assistance of the take place as desired provided some terms be written
Maharaja if the British did not object to it. He was out and accepted by the Shah in the form of an agree-
told that the British Government had no objection if ment (treaty) and be presented to the Maharaja for it
the Shah entered into treaty with the Lahore darbar was simply after that the comradeship of the respectable
but if he failed to succeed, the British Government 1
Shah would take place" . The Maharaja put 12 terms
would not be obliged to give him protection. This step for the treaty as under"The first condition was that his
of the British Government disheartened the Shah. He (Shuja)'s descendants, generation after generation, would
once again tried to seek the help of Ranjit Singh and never interfere with the countries of Shikarpur, Mankera,
in March 1829, the Shah sent a proposal to the Maha- Kachhi, Multan and the Deras, for they belonged to the
raja that in case the Maharaja gave him help and he Maharaja Bahadur and they would have nothing to do
was able to regain control of Kabul, he would present with them. The second condition was that the troops
Ranjit Singh rupees 1,00,000 and a few horses of good which would go to help them from Maharaja Bahadur,
breed. But when the British Government came to know half of their expenditure would be borne by the
of the proposal through their secret agents they warned Maharaja and for the other half they themselves would
him of the consequences. This again frightened the be responsible. The third condition was that he would
Shah and he remained quiet for some time. send to the Maharaja Bahadur every year one hundred
and one good horses worthy of a special ride by way of
But his desire to become the king was not dimi- nazrana of the country of Kabul. The fourth condition
nished as yet. In August 1831, the Shah made another was that the fruit and other necessary presents and gifts
proposal to the Maharaja. "On 31st of Sawan 13 August, would be sent year after year. The fifth was that he
1831 A.D.) Lala Kishan Chand presented himself to the would leave one of his sons with 500 strong horsemen to
Maharaja along with Kazi, vakil of Suja-ul-Mulk and remain in the service of the Maharaj Bahadur. The sixth
stated that the countries of Shikarpur, Mankera, Multan, condition was that he would never create loss to the
Peshawar, Kachhi, and Deras may belong henceforth to
the Maharaja and said that though the Maharaja had 1. Suri, Sohan Lai, Umdat-Ut-Tawarikh-P. 110
HARI SINGH NALWA PESHAWAR IS ATTOKKD AND ANNEXED [ 139
138]
oxen or the cows at any time in the country of Kabul pressive rule of the Barakzai Dost Mohammad Khan
and the like, and whosoever did so he (Shuja) should who had been hob-knobbing with Shah Abbas of Persia.
punish the offender. The seventh condition was that all He said that it posed a threat to all the peace loving
the khatris and brahmans, who were residing at Kabul, nations including the British. He promised that he would
would be caused to anyone of them- The eighth condi- maintain friendly relations with the British government
tion was that he would send to the Maharaja Sahib, by and would give an reception to the British agent in
way o{ nazrana the horse known as Shahzada Kamarn- Afghanistan.
wala The ninth condition was that whatever articles of Again, the British did not oblige him. They still
iewellerv the Maharaja would demand from him he felt that it was not a time to annoy the Lahore ruler
would supply the same without any delay. The tenth with whom they had entered into a treaty of mutual
was that the ministers who were to work in Kabul friendship and cooperation.
through their maintenance was to be paid by the
Maharaja Bahadur, they were to be granted separate Meanwhile the Shah was offered help from the
estate as well. The eleventh was that he would consider Amirs of Sind, who feared Ranjit Singh because of his
friends of the Maharaja as his own friends and the intentions over Shikarpur. Help was promised to him in
enemies of the Maharaja as his own enemies. The invading Afghanistan on the terms that he would not
twelfth was that he would never act contrary to the sweat ask for Shikarpur and acknowledge him as the indepen-
will of Maharaja These conditions were written out dent ruler. The Shah accepted the terms. Many Afghan
and handed over to Kazi, who was asked to present and Balauch chiefs promised him help if he invaded
them to the Maharaja after having them written out like Kandhar. The Shah negotiated with Ranjit Singh and
that so that the troops be appointed to help the Shah sought his help and assistance in fulfilling his ambition.
1
to regain his throne." Ranjit Singh agreed on the condition that the Shah
These coditions were found humilitating and de- should hand over to him Shikarpur and also divide the
grading by the Shah. The Shah was shocked and per- territories of the Amirs with him.
plexed He refused to surrunder his honour and in The Shah did not have resources to organise such
desperation the Shah turned again his eyes towards the an expedition. He requested the British to give protec-
British. He took advantage of the Persian threat to tion to his family at Ludhiana and also that the British
Herat which was then under the control of Kamran. Army advisors should accompany him to Afghanistan.
He proposed to the British that an expedition should be He was told that "the British Government would remain
launched against the tyrannical, authoritarian and re- perfectly neutral towards all parties in Afghanistan, that
no financial or military help except the advance of his
S u r i . S o h a n L a i U m d a t - u t - T a w a r i k h P. 71
140 ] HARI SINGH NALWA
PESHAWAR IS ATTACKED AND ANNEXED [ 141
half-yearly maintenance allowance of Rs. 16,000 could be
given to him, and that his family during his absence handed over to him. The Maharaja sent more troops
would not be abandoned to destination." 1
towards north. He wrote to him that he was welcome to
fight against him and all scores would be settled in the
Shah Shuja had no other alternative but to turn battlefield.
to Ranjit Singh for help and a treaty was signed on
March 22, 1833, surrundering all claims to the territory Dost Mohammad Khan sought help from all
north of Indus, in possession of the Sikhs. Ranjit Singh sources. The Amirs of Sind ignored him. Frustrated,
gave the Shah an assistence of Rs. 1,25,000 and Diwan he raised a cry of jehad against the Sikhs. But this also
Sawan Mai, ihe Multan Governor was ordered to send a did not work. His treasury was empty.
reporter to stay with Shah's army and keep him in- The Sikhs built up the defence of the North-west
formed of the developments. rontier. Forces had moved upto Peshawar. Hari Singh
In March 1834, the Shah marched towards the Nalwa stopped Afghan's insurrection in the valley. A
valley of Pishin, where the chiefs of Kandhar had chain of posts along the Khyber Pass had been estab-
collected 81,000 horsemen to check his advance. When lished The Maharaja had moved upto Attock along with
the Shah's force approached the valley, the tribesmen 25 battalions of the Sikh army with guns.
scattered and Kohin Dil Khan retired to Kandhar.
Ranjit Singh made up his mind to annex Peshawar
Dost Mohammad Khan made appeals to his brothers, to his empire in 1 834. A strong force under Hari Singh
and co-religionists to desert the Sikhs and join him. Nalwa and Prince Nau-Nihal Singh accompanied by
Prince Mohammad Akbar Khan left Kabul with 2,000 Generals ventura and Court marched northwards. The
horsemen and cannons to fight the Shah. The battle Barakzai brothers readily paid the tribute, sent their
ensued. Shah Shuja was defeated. He fled to Herat, families and guns across the river Kabul to Michni in
leaving behind all that he had. Roaming about he reach- the Yusufzai hills.
ed Shikarpur in January 1835 and later returned to
Ludhiana. A order was served to them to vacate Peshawar.
The Sikhs circled the city of Peshawar, occupied Bala
The Afghan pre-occupation at Kandhar gave the Hissar, and fighting in the suburbs captured Peshawar
Sikhs an opportunity to capture Peshawar on May 6, on May 6, 1834. Pir Mohammad Khan fled to Kohat
1834. However, Dost Mohammad Khan threatened and other Afghan Sardars repaired to Takkal and
Ranjit Singh with fire and sword if Peshawar was not Shekhan.
1. Lord W i l l i a m Bentinck to Shah Shuja P. 109 "The Sikh occupation of Peshawar resulted in a
hectic activity for its defence immediately. Reinforce-
140] HARI SINGH NALWA
PESHAWAR IS ATTACKED AND ANNEXED [ 141
half-yearly maintenance allowance of Rs. 16,000 could be
given to him, and that his family during his absence handed over to him. The Maharaja sent more troops
1
would not be abandoned to destination." towards north. He wrote to him that he was welcome to
fight against him and all scores would be settled in the
Shah Shuja had no other alternative but to turn battlefield.
to Ranjit Singh for help and a treaty was signed on
March 22, 1833, surrundering all claims to the territory Dost Mohammad Khan sought help from ali
north of Indus, in possession of the Sikhs. Ranjit Singh sources. The Amirs of Sind ignored him. Frustrated
gave the Shah an assistence of Rs. 1,25,000 and Diwan he raised a cry of jehad against the Sikhs. But this also
Sawan Mai, the Multan Governor was ordered to send a did not work. His treasury was empty.
reporter to stay with Shah's army and keep him in-
The Sikhs built up the defence of the North-west
formed of the developments.
rentier. Forces had moved upto Peshawar. Hari Singh
In March 1834, the Shah marched towards the Nalwa stopped Afghan's insurrection in the valley. A
valley of Pishin, where the chiefs of Kandhar had chain of posts along the Khyber Pass had been estab-
collected 81,000 horsemen to check his advance. When lished The Maharaja had moved upto Attock along with
the Shah's force approached the valley, the tribesmen 25 battalions of the Sikh army with guns.
scattered and Kohin Dil Khan retired to Kandhar.
Ranjit Singh made up his mind to annex Peshawar
Dost Mohammad Khan made appeals to his brothers,
to his empire in 1 834. A strong force under Hari Singh
and co-religionists to desert the Sikhs and join him.
Nalwa and Prince Nau-Nihal Singh accompanied by
Prince Mohammad Akbar Khan left Kabul with 2,000
Generals ventura and Court marched northwards. The
horsemen and cannons to fight the Shah. The battle
Barakzai brothers readily paid the tribute, sent their
ensued. Shah Shuja was defeated. He fled to Herat, families and guns across the river Kabul to Michni in
leaving behind all that he had. Roaming about he reach- the Yusufzai hills.
ed Shikarpur in January 1835 and later returned to
Ludhiana. A order was served to them to vacate Peshawar.
The Sikhs circled the city of Peshawar, occupied Bala
The Afghan pre-occupation at Kandhar gave the Hissar, and fighting in the suburbs captured Peshawar
Sikhs an opportunity to capture Peshawar on May 6, on May 6, 1834. Pir Mohammad Khan fled to Kohat
1834. However, Dost Mohammad Khan threatened and other Afghan Sardars repaired to Takkal and
Ranjit Singh with fire and sword if Peshawar was not Shekhan.
1. Lord W i l l i a m Bentinck to Shah Shuja P. 109
"The Sikh occupation of Peshawar resulted in a
hectic activity for its defence immediately. Reinforce-
PESHAWAR IS ATTACKED AND ANNEXED [ 143
142] HARI SINGH N A L W A posted. Thus, a halt was put on all the expected attacks
ments were sent to Attock under Prince Kashmira Singh, from the Khyber pass. Peace was restored in Peshawar
Gulab Singh and Tej Singh with strong detachments of and anti-social elements were curbed. Life returned to
infantry and Cavalry arrived at Peshawar ; and the normal and people's life and property was made safe.
Maharaja himself reached Rohtas with strong contin- Nalwa was fully aware as how to match the Afghans
gent and heavy guns."* hatred againt the Sikhs. His rule has been described as
a rule of oppression and tyranny in the North-west
It was, however, clear to Ranjit Singh that
frontier but he had no alternative but to be very harsh
Peshawar could only be retained by taking adequate
with the Pathans who understood the language of force
measures for its defence. The Maharaja issued orders
only. Tributes were levied on the Yusafzaisa cess of
for the construction of a new fort at Peshawar Hari
rupees four per household which was collected in cash
Singh Nalwa was made Governor of the province. Steps
or in kind and for the realisation of which the people
were taken to consolidate Sikh power by strongly
could be given severe punishment and their personal
garrisioning the forts on the frontier. The Barakzai
effects could be auctioned. "There is scare in the villages
brothers, Sultan Mohammad Khan and Pir Mohammad
from the head of the Lundkhwar velley to the Indus,
was assigned Jagirs in the region to avoid further mis-
which was not burnt and plundered by this celebrated
chief.
commander. In such awe were his visitations held that
After taking the possession of Peshawar the his name was used by mothers as a term of affright to
1
Maharaja alongwith his son Nau-Nihal Singh and'some hush their unruly children."
contingents of army returned to Lahore. However
before returning, he made Hari Singh Nalwa as the The policy of depredation continued for many
Governor of Peshawar. Ranjit Singh bestowed Jagirs of years in the North-west frontier. Nalwa remained in-
Tappa Hasht Nagar and Khat on Sardar Sultan charge of the administration of Peshawar till his death
Muhammad who had helped him in his expedition. The in 1 837. He strengthened Sikh position, garrisoning the
annual revenue from these Jagirs was rupees three lakhs frontier forts. He built a new fort at Bala Hissar and
About 12,000 soldiers were placed at the disposal of placed strong contingents in the forts of Attock and
Hari Singh Nalwa. Jahangira.
Hari Singh Nalwa took charge of the administra- "Generally speaking, the Sikh rule in the valley of
tion. The first step he took was to strengthen and cons- Peshawar could not change the traditional pettern of
truct the forts \ of Sumergarh, Burj Hari Singh, Kailash Afghan life both in the towns and villages. The acknow-
Garh, Shankergarh and Fathgarh. Army guards were
1. Peshawar District Gazetteer, P. 70
The Amir had resolved to put an end to any In the battle, a brave Sikh Sardar Ajab Singh
further advance by the Sikhs into the tribal land. A Randhawa was seriouly injured and died the same night.
strong force of ten thousand, equipped with 50 cannons The next day,with the rising of the sun, firing again
under the command of Prince Akbar Khan and started. The Afghans were fighting with zeal as the cry of
Sami Khan, proceeded towards the Khyber Pass to
1. Latif M o h d , : History of the Punjab P. 4 8 2
152] HABI SINGH NALWA THE BATTLE OE JAMRATJD [ 153
jehad had the desired effect on them. A fierce attack was the sake of the Panth. Their sole desire was to see that
made on the fort. The Sikhs defended the fort with all the Sikh's flag flying on the fort should remain there.
their might and checked the Afghan advances. But the They could not think of the time when the flag would
Afghan forces far outnumbered those of the Sikhs. They be removed from the fort. That would be the darkest
suffered heavy losses, both in men and material, but day in the annals of the Sikk history. Man had to die
they did not lose heart and by the same evening were one day, they said, then why not die like brave men.
able to surround the fort. They were also able to As long as there was the last drop of blood in their
capture the stream from which water flowed into the veins, they had to save the honour of the flag.
fort. A well of the fort also fell to the Afghans but, in
spite of their strength, were unable to enter the fort. The work of repairing the wall of the fort was
started without delay. Several jawans jumped into the
The day passed. The Sikh forces could not be fray and the wall was repaired in no time. They worked
reinforced but the Afghans could not capture the fort. with devotion and national fervour in their hearts.
Sardar Mahan Singh collected all the Sardars in the fort Several jawans offered their services for delivering the
and addressed them : "The time for our martyrdom has letter to Sardar Nalwa. A woman, named Harsharan
come. We have to sacrifice our lives for the sake of Kaur also came forward, not lagging behind her
honour of the Khalsa Panth. More forces have not brothers and offered her services for the purpose. She
arrived, nor is there any hope in the near future. said that every jawan was required for the defence of
We should attain martyrdom. For us it is 'chamkaur's' the fort, so the task of delivering the letter should fall
night but if we muster courage we can forstall the on her. It was an occasion of pride for her. The Sardar
danger. We should look towards our predecessors who and othrr jawans were greatly impressed by the offer
had sacrified their all for the sake of Panth. Remember of supreme sacrifice made by the young lady. At this
Guru Gobind Singh who sacrificed his teen-aged sons, time they thought of Mai Bhago who had fought
father, mother, in fact, everybody so that we may live shoulder to shoulder with her brethern in the battle
in honour and lead a dignified life. The call has come. of Muktsar.
I want from among you, my comrades, a few gallant
fightens who can repair the wall of the fort in no time Some expressed the view that a lady should not
and a few others who can go to Peshawar and deliver to be exposed to such a danger and she should remain in
Nalwa my letter narrating all the incidents." The the fort but ultimately it was agreed that she be allowed
words of Sardar Mahan Singh had the desired effect to go in the guise of an Afridi woman. Before leaving
on the soldiers. They assured Sardar Mahan Singh the fort, Bibi Harsharan Kaur said with folded hands ;
that they would leave no stone unturned in perform "My dear brethern, your bravary and courage have
their duty and were willing to sacrifice their lives for surpassed all limits. It is highly appreciable. A fire
THE BATTLE OP JAMBATJD
154] HABI SINGH NALWA [ 155
morning. They are making all the necessary n r e r a n .
is burning in my heart to share your burden, but I am
tions for the same. You had reposed confidence in t h e
a woman. This is my misfortune. But I am prepared to
jawans and given them the responsibility to defend the
sacrifice my life for a noble cause. Kindly permit me
historic fort of Jamraud which is so dear to all of us
to perform my duty. I pray, I may be permitted to
It is a symbol of your honourFatehgarhits verv
take the letter to Peshawar. To reach Peshawar safe
name implies victory and if it is razed to the ground on
and sound will rest in God's hands as the fort is sur-
prestige, honour and dignity will suffer greatly Until
rounded from all sides by the enemy forces." Sardar
now some how or other we have defended the fort h u t
Mahan Singh gave his letter to her in Sardar Nalwa's
with the passing of every minute, it is becoming dim
name. Harsharn Kaur told him that if cannon fire was
cult to do the same. To the jawans, honour is dearer
heard by 4 a.m., it should be presumed that she had than their lives. At the moment, leaving aside t h e siek-
reached safely and had succeeded in impressing upon and the injured our total strength is about 700 sold I r s
the Nalwa Sardar to send more forces immediately. which is insufficient to meet any eventuality Thev h i v e
However, if no cannon fire was heard, it should be taken a vow before Sri Guru Granth Sahil> that till t h !
understood that she had died. last drop of blood in their viens, they will not allow t h !
Sardar Mahan Singh wrote to Sardar Hari Singh honour of their national flag to suffer We mav !
Nalwa : be able to write you any more letter Kindly aceen
"Respected General Nalwa ji, our last Gur Fateh from the sarbat Khalsa s t r a m S J
Gur Fateh. I did dot want to disturb you in in the fort." 5 1 1 4 1 1 1 ( 3 6 0
'
your illness. I do not want to put any burden on you
in your hour of crisis. It is a known fact that the By your honour,
strength of our forces even at Peshawar is much less Yours affectionately
than required and it will take sometime for the The Khalsa of Fatehgarh
forces to reach from Lahore. The Khalsa in the fort April 29, 1837
has decided to apprise you about the entire situation
with which it is faced. It is an hour of crisis. The Harsharn Kaur took the letter, changed her clnt-W
outer wall of the fort, which was damaged, is being and proceeded towards Peshawar-a journey full o f 2 5
repaired by our gallant soldiers by using sand bags. and danger to the honour of a woman.
It is hoped the job will be completed shortly. Our Harsharan Kaur
honour was saved by the grace of God when even after reached Peshawar by 2.30 a.m. on April 30 1837 riJ
the wall of the fort was damaged, the enemy could not was able to deliver the letter to the sick Nalwa Sardar
dare to enter the fort ; otherwise, it would have been He roared like a lion and, forgetting his illness g o t n
impossible for me to send you this last message. It from his bed. He had no alternative but to fight for the
means the Afghans would again attack the fort next honour of the Panth. He immediately ordered his
156] HABI SINGH NALWA
THE BATTLE OP JAMRAUD [ 157
troops6,000 foot, 1,000 regular cavalry and 3,000
irregular to march towards Jamraud. Nalwa wrote a The Maharaja, after receiving these letters at
letter to Maharaja Ranjit Singh informing him about the Chinoit, became worried and ordered Sardar Tej Singh,
happenings in the tribal area. This was Nalwa's last Gullu Khan of artillery, Sardar Sham Singh Attari,
letter to the Maharaja. Earlier also, he had written Sardar Lehna Singh Majitha, General Allard Ventura,
letters to the Maharaja, the first on April 21, 1837 and Jamedar Khushal Singh, Raja Gulab Singh and Kanwar
the second on April 28, 1837. The first letter said Nau-Nihal Singh, along with their forces to proceed
"Mohammad Afzal Khan and Akbar Khan have formed towards Peshawar. Though the forces marched towards
morchas near the walls of the Jamraud fort. I am holding Peshawar, it was not possible for them to reach there in
at the garden ofNawab Ali Khan Mardan Khan near such a short time. The distance to be covered was too
Peshawar. All the cannons have been installed and with long for the time at their disposal.
the enemy's artillery fire the bnrjs of the fort are falling.
The enemy is advancing towards Peshawar. The supply Then the fateful day came, April 30, 1837. Cannon
of water to the fort has been cut off. I shall be reaching fire was heard at 3 a.m. from Peshawar. It encouraged
Jamraud on April 29 to command and help the Sikh the Sikh soldiers, fighting their life and death battle in
soldiers. The second letter said : "The Afghans con- the Jamraud fort. They could judge that the message
tinued their firing from morning till late in the evening had been reeeived by the Nalwa Sardar, so they were
with which several breaches have occured in the fort's confident that assistance would come soon.
walls. A major breach has occurred in one of the walls Hari Singh Nalwa marched at lightning speed.
which had already fallen. However, Sardar Mahan Singh When he reached near Burj Hari Singh, he divided his
is still holding the fort and is defending it with all bis forces into three columns. One "was put under his own
might. There has been heavy casualties on the Afghan command, the second under Sardar Nidhan Singh
side with 500 dead and several hundred injured. Last 'Panjhatta' and the third under Amar Singh Majitha. He
night, the enemy tried to lift their dead but Sardar himself proceeded straight and ordered the other Com-
Mahan Singh resorted to heavy firing and prevented the manders to attack from right and left. "His advance
Afghans from coming near the fort." was, at first, irresistible, and the Afghans broke and
Hari Singh Nalwa also sent a message to Sardar fled; but the Sikhs carried their pursuit too far, and
Lehna Singh Sandhawalia at Hashat Nagar for assistance were overhelmed by a charge of Afghan horses under
and requested for reinforcement. But as Haji Khan Sardar Shamsuddin Khan. |Hari Singh, seeing a des-
Kokar, under instructions from Amir Dost Mohcmmad, perate effort could alone retrieve the fortunes of the day,
was blocking all the routes, he was unable to reach rode with his principal Sardars to the front and by his
Pehawar. presence and example encouraged the Sikhs to stand.
The day might still have been won, but Hari Singh fell,
158 ] THE BATTLE OP JAMKATJD [ 159
HARI SINGH NALWA
and foot, threatened Dost Mohammad's centre and
mortally wounded by two bullets in the side and stomach
right flank. The battle of Peshawar has been described
and his men disheartened, fell back under the walls of 1
as one month's spaning, coquetting and skirmising."
Jamraud and waited for reinforcements. These at last
Heavy cannonading and skirmising took place along
arrived, when the water and provisions had been
exhausted, and nothing remained for the besieged but to the whole front. The Afghan position being on rising
cut their way through the enemy as best they might ground, their every moment was visible. The entire
But when the news of the Afghan attack first reached Sikh army with the French division was ready to make
Lahore, a large part of the force which had been assem- an advance and a simultaneous attack on the Afghan
bled to do honour to the Prince Nau Nihal Singh was position. A general advance and attack along the
despatched north in all haste. The prince himself, his whole Afghan line was to commence at 4 O' clock in
2
father Kharak Singh, General Ventura, Jamedar the morning." But, "Dost Mohammad, with all his
Khushal Singh, and all the flower of the Sikh chivalry, troops and Ghazis and retreated during the night into
formed so formidable an array that, on their timely the Khaiber, and when day broke out not even a single
3
arrival at Peshawar, the Bara Kzai Sardars raised the tent or Afghan was to be seen."
siege and withdrew without further fighting to
1 Turning back to the battle of Jamraud, when
Jalalabad."
Hari Singh reached Jamraud, the Afghans were making
Alexander Gardner has described the mobili- preparations for a fierce attack on the fort. The sun
sation of forces on both the sides, the Sikhs and Afghans. had not risen as yet. Nalwa took advantage of the
He tells us "that at Peshawar Dost Mohammad Khan situation and attacked the Afghan force with all his
had an army of 50,000 troops with 60,000-80,000 irregu- might. Attacks were also made from the other two
lar ghazis supplementing it. Ranjit Singh had moved sides by Sardar Amar Singh and Sardar Nidhan Singh.
the whole of the Sikh army towards Peshawar." The Artillery fire was resorted to but the Afghans defended
Francese Campo or the French division of the Sikh army, the attacks valiantly. When the besieged Sikh soldiers
then personally commanded by the four French and came to know about the arrival of the Nalwa Sardar,
Italian generals-Messieurs Allard, Ventura Avitabile they were encouraged and started firing on the Afghans
and Court, and having a strengh 20,000 to 22^00 men, from inside the fort.
marched towards Hastnagar, and thence slowly and
cautiously made its way westwards and southwards Nalwa forced the Division of Mohammad Khan.
with the object of turning the left flank of dost's army, This division was known for its bravery, valour and
while the remainder of the Sikh army commanded by
Ranjit Singh himself and 60,000 to 80,000 strong, horse 1. Alexander Gardner, Memories, P. 1 8 4 - 8 5
2. H a s a t , B i k r a m j i t , Life and Times of Ranjit Singh P. 134.
3. Alexander Gardner, Memories P. 1 8 4 - 1 8 5
1. Griffin Lepel, Ranjit Singh PP 2 1 4 - 1 5
160 ] HARI SINGH NALWA THE BATTLE OF JAMRAUD [ i6i
gallantry. Mohammad Khan stood before the Nalwa Zarin Khan, Arz Begi, which he threw into confusion,
Sardar, who attacked him fiercely, but he did not budge their leaders being severely wounded and fleeing from
an inch. When he was attacked the third time he left the scene of action in great dismay. The Division led
his position. A battle ensued. The Afghans retreated by the Amir's sons and Nawab Jabbar Khan, which
and Mohammad Khan and Nawab Jabbar Khan were had not hitherto been in the field, was that of Mohamed
grievously injured. The moment, he fell from the Afzal Khan, the Amir's eldest son who, keeping together
horse back, confusion and chaos prevailed. Sardar his body of two thousand men, showed a bold front.
Nidhan Singh showed his worth and killed several of Hari Singh, finding him inflexible, unexpectedly wheeled
the enemy soldiers. He faced the Division of Akbar round and observing the Amir's sons and the Nawab
Khan who fought with valour but was badly injured. occupying small emineaces in the defiles of the Khaibar,
There was confusion in the ranks and the soldiers who fell on their divisions. The assault was furious, and the
ran helter skelter. Sardar Amar Singh engaged the Sikhs drove the Afghans from their positions with much
division of Afzal Khan and Mohammad Azam Khan. slaughter, capturing fourteen guns. The Sikhs thinking
Thereafter the Afghan forces ran in all directions. the victory gained, pursued the enemy, in order to drive
Now Hari Singh attacked Zarin Khan's division. them into the plains, when .heir progress was checked
There were many casualties and the battle-field was by a large body of horses, led by Shams-ud-Din Khan
1
covered with dead bodies. Sardar Mangal Singh Ram- who was coming to join in the battle."
gharia proved his mettle and killed several enemy In the battle of Jamraud, Hari Singh Nalwa used
soldiers. By this time, the Afghans had known that Parmar rifles manufactured in the Lahore Ordnance
Hari Singh himself was present in the battle-field. They Factory. These proved to be very effective. In the battle,
became panicky. When Mirza Sami and Dost Moham- while taking away some of the cannons captured from the
mad's sons came to know that Hari Singh is not pre- enemy, Nawab Arbab Mohammad Khan, a Comrade-
sent in the battle-field, they became courageous. They in-arms of Nalwa, was fired upon by a Ghazi and he
tried to attack the Jamraud fort with greater vigour and died on the spot in front of Nalwa's eyes. Nalwa was
each time vying with one another to achieve the success. awfully enraged and he killed the Ghazi along with
They were congratulated time and again but when on several others.
April 30, Sardar Had Singh made a bitter attack on The Afghans fled and entered the Khyber Pass.
1
them, they fled from the battle-field. Nalwa did not want his forces to follow them instead
Hari Singh next fell upon the Divisions of Naib he wished to consolidate his position and ordered his
Amir Akhundzada, Mullah Momand Khan Naib and troops to remain in the fort and have some rest. However
an enraged Sardar Nidhan Singh followed the Afghans
1. M a s s o n , Charles : Narrative of various Journeys in Blauchisran, Afgha-
nistan and the Punjah P. 4 8 3
Latif M o h d . . History of the Panjab P. 4 8 3
THE BATTLE OF JAMRAUD [163
162 ] HARI SINGH NALWA
"The Afghans had really not much to boast of on
inside the fort. He had only 1500 horsemen with him this action, although Akbar Khan plumed himself on a
while Afghans numbered several thousand. Hari Smgh transcendent victory, the Sikhs scarcely acknowledged
could not check his pent-up emotions and entered the defeat, but their loss in <he person of their chief was
Khyber Pass to help Sardar Nidhan Singh. He ordered irreparable." 1
countries and nations hung on the point of a lance and gunshot wound in the side, from which he gradually
when an individuul whose bold heart beat fearlessly sank and was carried off the field to the fort, where he
under his steel breast-plate was the sole founder of vast expired, requesting that his death should not be made
1
empires. To the proud inhabitants of the land of the five known until the arrival of the Maharaja's rebuifs."
rivers it is memorial of their forefathers sovereignity
over the arrogant Afghan tribes. To a sane and brood- The death of Hari Singh Nalwa was a great blow
ing mind it is of instability of human greatness. A to the morale of the Sikh forces. Maharaja Ranjit
soldier, the flash of whose sword dazzled once the eyes Singh, who was on his way to Peshawar, came to know
of the Afghans from Attock to Kabul, is now lying of Nalwa's injuries on May 4, 1837, w.ie l he was halting
helpless under a few stones. He who triumphantly at Gujarat. Some writers are of the opinion that by
marched through foreign lands and climes is now being that time, the news of Nalwa's death had also reached
trodden over by rats and squirrels. He who crushed but it was concealed by Raja Dhian Singh. The Raja
the proudest antagonists yesterday, cannot kill the hastily ordered his forces to march towards Peshawar.
serpents and snakes that surrounds him today. He who He was accompanied by Suchat Singh, Jawand Singh
by the thunder of his voice scattered and dispersed the Mokol, Ajit Singh, Dhanna Singh Malwai and Mian
vast hosts of the enemy cannot frighten the owl that Gullu Khan.
x
disturbs him in his rest. It is a pity." When the Maharaja reached Rohtas on May, 6,
1837, the news of the death of Nalwa Sardar was broken
An account and a detailed description of the to him. The Maharaja closed his eyes for a while and
battle of Jamraud and death of Hari Singh Nalwa was then, "he broke down, beat his breast in anguish and
sent by Dr. Wood to wade, who forwarded the same to 2
wept bitter tears." The Maharaja further said that he
the Governor-General. There had been a great slaughter had lost a Nimak Halal servant of the Khalsa." 3
as himself. The Maharaja personally liked him, and banks of the river Chenab to Peshawar, a distance of
was much affected by his death, for in him he had his more than two hundred miles covered in just 6 days.
most courageous and loyal leiutenant and an able and
1
But by the time the Sikh forces reached Peshawar
experienced Counsellor." "The old man was moved
the Afghan forces had retreated and not a single soldier
to tears when he heard the fate of the only genuine was there to face the Sikh army.
2
Sikh chief of his creation."
When the Afghan forces headed by Mohammad
The Maharaja in his anguish said : "Today a Afzal Khan and Akbar Khan reached Kabul, victory
great pillar of Khalsa Raj has fallen down. His loss is was celebrated on a large scale. The Afghans thought
unbearable for me. Today I am feeling lonely and that with the death of Hari Singh Nalwa they had an
depressed. He was really a great general. May his occasion to celebrate the victory irrespective of the fact
soul rest in peace." Saying this the Maharaja again that they had not been able to uproot the Sikhs from the
wept bitterly and reprimanded Raja Dhian Singh for Jamraud fort. The city was illuminated and crackers
not informing him the correct situation in Peshawar. were fired. A darbar was held by Amir Dost Moham-
mad. Akbar Khan was honoured and flowers were
The Maharaja was so much depressed that he showered on him. There was rejoicing on a large scale.
once again asked Raja Dhian Singh why he had not Amir's second son, Afzal Khan, who had fought bravely
informed him about the real situation. Tne Raja told in the battte field, became annoyed with the Amir for
him that two letters were received by him from Sardar being ignored." 1
When Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa was lying wounded 100 horsemen. The jagir remained with Sardar Mahan
in the fort of Jamraud, he gave special instructions to Singh till the reign of Maharaja Sher Singh but when
Sardar Mahan Singh to the effect that, firstly, all the Sardar Mahan Singh died, The jagir was confiscated.
sad/ms, saints and fakirs who were part of his entrouage
Nalwa had two wives, Sardarni Dessan and
should' be departed with full honour and due respect
Sardarni Raj Kaur. Sardarni Dessan gave birth to two
given to them, secondly, his daughter should be married
sons, Sardar Punjab Singh and Sardar Arjan Singh, and
at an early date. Thirdly, the entire army under his two daughters. Sardarni Raj Kaur gave birth to Sardar
command should remain loyal and obedient to Maha- Gurdit Sinah and Sardar Jawahar Singh. Nalwa's
raja and, lastly, the news about his death should be kept daughters were married to Sardar Ganda Singh of Kotli
secret till the forces had arrived from Lahore. Faqir Chand and the second to Sardar Kanahia Singh.
It is said that "Nalwa had another son, Chattar Singh
These wishes of Hari Singh Nalwa were obeyed 1
by name."
by his colleagues, subordinates and followers both in
letter and spirit. It is said that by the time Nalwa died After Nalwa's death, a dispute arose among his
the Afghans had already retreated and it had then sons about the distribution of property. Sardar Arjan
rained very heavily. Singh forcibly took possession of Nalwa's Gujranwala
Sikh forces arrived under Raja Dhian Singh. house and Sardar Jawahar Singh and Sardar Gurdit
Singh declared themselves Masters of Gujranwala town.
Nalwa's son, Jawahar Singh, followed him. He was
When reports about the dispute were received by the
given all the facilities in his journey to Peshawar and
Maharaja, he confiscated the entire property of Sardar
the Maharaja personally g ve him a letter of introduction
Nalwa including his Jagir at Pakhli, Dhamthor, Haripur
in the name of Raja Dhian Singh. But by the time
Hazara, Khanpur, Khobra, Kachhi, Bannu, Kallar,
Jawahar Singh reached Jamraud, Nalwa's dead body had
Kahar, Nurpur, Mitha Tiwana, Chillayar and Gujran-
already been cremated. He collected his father's ashes wala. The annua] income from these jagirs amounted
and brought them to Gujranwala where he constructed to Rs. 853,000. However, annual pension was granted to
his Samadhi. Mahan Singh who fought gallantly at Nalwa's sons as under : Sardar Punjab Singh Rs. 5400,
Jamraud was honoured by the Maharaja. Kanwar Nau- Sardar Arjan Singh Rs. 6500, Sardar Jawahar Singh
Nihal Singh and General Allard sent special reports Rs. 5500, and Sardar Gurdit Singh Rs. 2,200. The
to the Maharaja recommending awards for Mahan Maharaja gave the jagirs of Haripur Hazara and Gujran-
Singh. His services were grealy appreciated and he wala to Sardar Tej Singh and Missar Beli Ram respec-
was given an annual jagir of Rs. 37,000. Out of this, tively. Similarly, Nalwa's cash worth three lakh rupees,
jagir worth Rs. 12,000 was to be utilised for his personal
benefit and Rs. 25,000 for the services rendered by his 1. Hug?l, Baron Travels i n K a s h m i r a n d P u n j a b .
174] HARI SINGH NALWA
HARI SINGH IS INJURED AND MARTYRED [ 175
which was lying with Lala Nar Singh Das of Gujranwala,
was taken possession of. In March 1849, after the annexation of Panjab,
Jawahar Singh was released alongwith many other
Sardar Jawahar Singh had taken part in the Sardars and was appointed Risaldar in the British army.
campaigns of Jahangira in 1832 and of Peshawar in 1834. The British Government needed trained soldiers and
He had shown his worth and made a name as a brave jobs were provided to many of them. Jawahar Singh
soldier. So he was granted a jagir at Khanpur, Nalwa took part in Burma, Lucknow and Kanpur
Sardar Arjan Singh and Sardar Punjab Singh were given campaigns. His regiment participated in 18 battles and
jagirs worth Rs. 40,000 so that no ill-will was created he showed great courage. In recognition of his valour,
among them. Jawahar Singh was given a jagir of Rs. 12,000 annually.
He was also bestowed with the title of Sardar Bahadur
Jawahar Singh continued to remain in service of and in 1862 he was made honorary magistrate of
the Lahore darbar and was posted at Peshawar and Gujranwala.
Hazara.
Both the wives of Hari Singh Nalwa were also
In 1843-44, he joined the service of Bhai Vir Singh given pensions, Rs. 800 annually to Sardarni Dessan and
of Naurangabad (Amritsar). In 1845-46 he fought Rs. 700 to Sardarni Raj Kaur. They continued to get
against the British army and became a eye sore for this pension till their death.
them on account of his fighting with great valour and
courage. In 1847-48, he again fought against the British.
to serve his nation which turned him into an uncon- frontal attack and won the day."
quered warrior and a great general. He was a born son There are several occasions when we see that his
of the sword with Innate genius. enemies chose to run away rather than face him. This
He can be compared with Alexander, the Great, was due to his confirmed skill and established reputa-
who never cared for his life and always jumped into the tion as a general. "Once Abas Mirza of Persia in-
fray, not caring for what would happen. He sustained quired from me as to the powers of the Khalsa army.
He replied as for his (Ranjit Singh's) army, if Sardar
twenty seven wounds on his body and was frequently
Hari Singh were to cross the Indus, His Highness (Dost
wounded. Unlike Dupliex, Nalwa was a practical general.
Mohammad Khan) would soon be glad to make good
Dupliexmade battle plans in his office room and was 2
his retreat to his original government in Tabriz."
always sure of victory but his plans miserably failed in
the field. Nalwa gained practical experience while fight- There is yet another cause of his success. His
ing in the battlefield. He was always in forefront and soldiers reposed implicit confidence in him and served
through sheer bravery, will and determination changed him faithfully with devotion. Their loyolty to him was
the fate of his nation. His dauntless courage had fre- unchallanged. He had a democratic bent of mind and
quently placed him in a grave situation ; even as he fell this instinct made him to consult his colleagues and
at last, he was victim of his bravery. At the siege of subordinates alike in the matters of warfares.
Kasur, Multan and during the battle of Jamraud, he
showed remarkable bravery and won the field by sheer Nalwa was very successful as a Statesman. His
frontier policy was far-sighted. The terror of the Khalsa
force of courageous heart and a strong hand. Besides
his reckless heart and feats of strength, he was adept in 1. Sandhu, A. S . H a r i Singh N a l w a P. 96
2. M o h a n Lai, J o u r n a l of Travels in the P u n j a b , A f g h a n i s t a n . Introduction
P. X I V .
THE LAST CHAPTER [ 183
182 ] HARI SINGH NALWA
Sardar possessed E collection of paintings which he
1
was everywhere. The Sikh soldiers under the command showed to him."
of Hari Singh Nalwa created havoc in Afghan settle- The gigantic mural which adorned his garden villa,
ments in the country and "it undoubtedly kept the representing the battle of Jamraud, was a classic example
population in a depressed state, and deterred the of the prevailing conditions of the times. It was 3.5
Sardars from rising against the yoke they felt so
1
metre long and 2 metre high, painted on the back of an
irksome."
apartment. It was divided into two compartments, one
The harsh rule of the Nalwa was an acknowledged representing the Sikh camp and the other the Afghan.
fact. It was badly required under the prevailing condi- The mural was amazingly vivid and its description is
tions of the times. To deal with rustic, fanatic and given thus :
brave pathans, Nalwa had to be strict. He had to be
ruthless in quelling the disturbances. The Afghans were "The two upper rows tells us the advance of
so rude and harsh that they did not tolerate orderly cavalry regiments on either side; the next two, of the
government or political control over them, especially formidable array of jingals carried on camel backs,
that of the Sikhs, whom the called infidels. preceded by a few horsemen, who have already come
into action ; the fifth, which is the centre one, displays
Nalwa's strong frontier policy had some drawbacks the valiant Hari Singh sumptuously clothed, and seated
too but he was helpless in the matter. Sometimes, use of on an elephant, with an attendant holding a Chhatar
force becomes so necessary that no alternative is left to over his head, the renowed Akbar Khan opposite him,
control the situation. The same circumstances existed similarly mounted and similarly attended. Below these
for Nalwa. He was there to annex territory for his are other Squadrons of cavalry and camel Sowars, of
Master and to curb the lawless activity of the disloyal both nations, facing each other; and the concluding
elements. line is occupied by the detachment of the Sikh infantry
marching in regular order to the tune of martial music,
"Nalwa was not only a great soldier ,'and a with a gun in front blowing a party of Afghans to eter-
Statesman, he was a lover of art and architecture too. nity The whole skill of the artist seems concen-
The first murals were found in the fort and village of trated on the spot; for independent of grapeshot, which
Sardar Hari Singh at Gujranwala. To the German appear in multitude as the stars of firmament, he por-
traveller Baron Hugal, Nalwa exhibited a portrait of trays with dignified ease and simplicity the muscular
himself which proved that he was a Nalwaa man who power of an Afghan, who is lifting his wounded comrade
had cloven the head of the tiger who had already seized
him as his prey. Hugal also observed that the Nalwa 1. B a r o n , H u g a l , T r a v e l s i n Kashmir a n d P u n j a b P . 2 5 4
from the ground with one hand, and that too with so mural, therefore, must have been executed after death
little apparent exertion as to be seemingly a matter of to perpetuate his memory by one of his descendants." 1
Nalwa's faith in God and Gurus was immense. "We were shocked at the catastrophe and pro
He was proud to be a true, devout Sikh. The word posed to return, but the chief would not listen to it
'Sikh' thrilled him and gave him courage and strength. He gave a laugh, and said, what is the use of a seik if
Says Burnes : "When I met Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa he cannot pass the Attock? The principal branch,
on March 14, 1832 at Attock, he received me warmly. however, was still in our front ; and I only agreed to
When we were about to cross the river, I was afraid to cross it if the horsemen were left behind. 'Leave my
see the strong stream and could not dare to enter it guard", cried the chief, impossible ! but we did leave
1
and if anybody would have asked me my desire, would it, and safely passed the fort."
have come back. But I could not uttar a word and did
Such was the faith of the great general in God and
not show my uttar weakness to the Sikh Sardar as I had
Gurus that he was never afraid of taking risk. He was
already agreed to cross the river on the horseback
a true, devout Sikh, who could risk his life for the
alongwith Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa. In our presence sacred cause so dear to him.
the Sardar put his horse in the overflowing water of
the river. We had to follow him. We crossed Nalwa's personal character was unblemished,
some portion of the river safely. Then an unfortunate above reproach with spotless character, he alone could
happening took place. Some others followed us on set an example for his soldiers. Although he had two
horses. They were seven in number. Hardly they wives, this was in accordance with the custom of times.
had entered the water, they were drowned in the strong He was not addicted to social evils.
current of the fast flowing river. Efforts were made to
save them but they could save only two of them." 1 "Nalwa's services to Ranjit Singh and to the
Punjab were too numerous to be counted. Their value
"I started trembling at the very sight of the inci- can only be enumerated by future historious when they
dent and fear empowered me. I told Sardar Nalwa would decide Nalwa's place in history. He fought in
not to go further and take any more risk. We shall go almost all the important campaigns and many a times
back. Nalwa laughed and said that it was futile to be
2. Ibid P. 66
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Archer, w.G .. Paintings of the Sikhs, London, 1966.
Ali, Shaharflat, The Sikhs and the Afghans, London, 1847.
Barr, Williflm, Lt-Journal of a March from Delhi to Peshawar and
bromthence to Kabul, London 1844.
Bingley, OtPL A.H., Sikhs, Calcutta, 1918
Uoulger, o .C. Lord William Bentinck oxford, 1892.
Burnse Ale~ander, Travels into Bokhara, 3 Vols. London 1834.
Chopra, Barkat Ram, Kingdom of the Punjab, Hoshiarpur, 1968.
Chopra, GtJisban La!, Punjab as a Soverign State, Lahore 1799-1839,
1928.
Cbhabra, G S., Advanced History of the Punjab, 2 Vol.,
Ludhiafla. 196!.
Court, HenrY, History of the Sikhs, Lahore, 1888.
Colvin, Sir Auckland, John Russel Colvin, London, 1895.
Cunnighanh J. D., History of the Sikhs, L ondon, 1849
Douie Sir James, The Punjab, North-west Frontier Province and
K~shmir, Cambridge 1916.
Eden, EmilY Up the Country, 2 Vols. London, 1944.
Edwards, }ferbert, A Year on the Punjab Frontier, London, 1851.
Elphinstone, Mountstuart, An account of the Kingdom of Kabul,
2 Vols. London, 1839.
Falcon, R. W. , Handbook of Sikhs, Allahabad, 1896.
Fane, H . :f.;., Five Years in India, 2 Vols., London, 1842.
Forster, George, A journey from Bengal to England, 2 Vols.
Londo 11, 1798.
Carret, H. L. 0. and Chopra G. L., Events at the Court of Ranjit
Singh, Lahore, 1935.
Gordon Sir John J. H., The Punjab-A Hundred years ago
Lah~re. 1935. The Si khs, London, 1904. '
Ganda Singh, Ranjit Singh, Death Centenary Vol. , Amritsar, 1939.
Grey, c. ~uropean Adventurers of North India 1785 to 1849,
Lahore. 1929.
Griffin, Sir, Lepel, 1. R anjit Singh, Oxford 1905
2. The Rajas of the Punjab, Lahore, 1870
3. The Punjab Chiefs, Lahore 1865
A SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY [195
194 ] HARI SINGH NALWA
Mohan Lai, Journal of a Tour through the Punjab, Afghanistan
Gupta Hari Ram, History of the Sikhs ; etc., London, 1834.
Vol. II, Lahore 1944 Life of Amir Dost Muhammad Khan of Kabul, 2 Vols.,
Vol. Ill, Lahore 1944 London, 1846.
Harlan J., A Memoir of India and Afghanistan, London, 1839 Murray. W., History of the Punjab, 2 Vols., London, 1846.
Hasrat, Bikram Jit, Life and Times of Ranjit Singh, Hoshiarpur, Moorcroft, William and Trebeck, G. Travels in the Himalayan Pro-
vinces of Hindustan and the Punjab, 2 Vols., London, 1841.
Anglo-Sikh Relations, Hoshiarpur 1968 Minto, The Countess of Lord Minto in India, 1807-1814 London,
The Punjab Papers, Hoshiarpur, 1970 1880.
Honigberger J. M. Dr., Thirty five years in the East, Calcutta, 1852 Nai, Lajpat Rai, Fakir Azizuddin, Lahore, 1942.
Hugel Baron Charles, Travels in Kashmir and the Punjab, London, Narans, Sir, Gokul Chand, Transformation of Sikhism, New Delhi,
1845. 1960.
Hutchison and Vegel, History of the Punjab Hill States, 2 Vols., Orlich Leopold, Von, Travels in India including Sind and the
Lahore, 1933. Punjab, 2 Vols. London, 1845.
Ibbesten, Sir Denzil, Punjab Castes, Lahore, 1916. Osborene W. G., Court and camp of Ranjit Singh, London, 1840.
Jacquemont, Victor, Letters from India, 2 Vols., London, 1835. Panikkar, K. M., The Founding of the Kashmir State, London,
Kaye, John Williams, Life and Correspondence of Lord Metealfe, 1953-Gulab Singh, London, 1930.
2 Vols., London, 1858. Parmu, R. K , A History of Sikh Rule in Kashmir, Srinagar, 1977.
Kacher, Hans Rai, The Punjab 1792-1849, Agra, 1916. Payne, C. H., A Short History of the Sikhs, London, 1915.
Khushwant Singh, The Sikhs, London, 1953 Pearse, Hugh, Major (Sd.) Memories of Alexander Gardner,
Ranjit Singh, London, 1962 London, 1898.
Prinsep Henry T. The origin of the Sikh power in Panjab,
A History of the Sikhs, 2 Vols., London, 1963
Calcutta, 1834.
Kieman, V. G., Metcalfe's Mission to Lahore 1808-9, Lahore. 1943
Punjab District Gazetters.
Kirpa Ram Dewan, Gulab Nama, New Delhi, 1977.
Punjab States Gazetters.
Kohli, Sita Ram, Catalogue of Khalsa Darbar Records 2 Vols.,
Punjab Govt. Records Vol. I, Lahore 1911.
Sun set of the Sikh Empire, Delhi, 1967. Punjab Government Records Vol. II, Lahore, 1911.
Latif, Syed Mohammed, History of the Punjab, Cacutta, 1891. Ramakrishna L. Les Sikhs, Par.s, 1933.
L a h o r e - I t s History, Architectural remains and Antiquities, Ross, David, Land of Five Rivers, London, 1893.
Lahore, 1892. Ross, H A. A glossary of the tribes, and castes of the Punjab and
Lawrence, Major H. M. L., Adventures of an officer in the Punjab, North West Frodtier Province 3 Vols. Lahore 1919.
2 Vols., London, 1846.
Sandhu Avtar Singh : General Hari Singh Nalwa. Lahore, 1935.
Lawrance, Walter, Sir, The valley of Kashmir.
Sethi R.R.; The Lahore Darbar, New Delhi, 1950.
Mujumdar,B. N., Military System of the Sikhs, Delhi 1965.
Shahamat Ali; The Sikhs and the Afghans, London, 1847.
Melleson, G. B., History of Afghanistan, 1878.
Sastri Prakash; Organisation Militairedes Sikhs, Paris 1932.
Masson, Charles, Narrative of various journeys in Baluchistan,
Sinha N.K.; Rise of the Sikh Power, Calcutt, 1946.
Afghanistan and the Punjab, 3 Vols., London, 1842. Ranjit Singh, Calcutta, 1933
Malcolm, Sir John, A Sketch of the Sikhs, London, 1812. Svmth Carmichael; A history of the Reigning Family of Lahore,
McGregor, W. L , History of the Sikhs, 2 Vols. London, 1846. y
Lahore, 1847.
j^g j HARI SINGH NALWA A SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY [ 197
Sreinhach H Col The Punjab, being a brief account of the country Persian
of the Sikhs, London, 1845.
Sood, D. R., Ranjit Singh, New Delhi, 1968. Amar Nath, Dewan ; Bahht Mai, Khalsa Nama Zafarnama-i-Ranjit
Singh, 1928
Suri, V. S. Some Rai Khushwaqt ; Tarikh-i-Sikhhan.
Orieional Sources of punjab History. Suri, Sohan Lal ; Umdat-ut-Tawarikh, 5 Vols., Translations by
Tela' Singh and Ganda Singh, A Short History of the Sikhs, Suri V. S
New Delhi, 1950. Shah, Bute ; Tarikh-i-Punjab, 5 Vols., Lahore, 1855-89.
Temnle R C The Le-ends of the Punjab, 3 Vols., Patiala, 1962.
Thompson Edward Life of Charles, Lord Metcalfe, London, 1937.
Thornton T H History of the Punjab, 2 Vols, London, 1846.
Trotter L J Earl of Auckland, Oxford, 1893.
Trevaskis H. K. The Land of Five Rivers, Oxford, 1928.
Vinge G T' Travels in Kashmir, Ladakh, Iskard, London, 1844.
W a d e ' c ' l V l " A N a r a t i v e o f Services, Military and Pol,tical-Our
Relations'withI the Punjab, London, 1823.
Waheed-ud-Din Fakir Syed, The Real Ranjit Singh, Karachi, 1965.
Wolff Rev Joseph Travels and Adventures, 3 Vols., London, 1860.
PUNJABI
Ashok Shamsher Singh; Prachin Jang Name, Amritsar, 1951.
Hari Singh Nalwa
Bhangu, Ratan Singh;
Prachin Panth Prakash, Amritsar, 1914.
Gyan Singh Gyani; Panth Prakash, Amritsar, 1880.
Kanhaya Lal; Zafarnama-i Ranjit Singh, Lahore, 1876.
Kanheya Lal'; Tarikh Punjab, Punjabi Translation, Patiala, 1968.
Kahan Singh Nabha ; Gur Shabd Ratnakar, Mahah Kosh, 4 Vols.,
Patiala, 1931.
Kahan Singh Banga ; Var Hari Singh Ki ; MSS-Sikh Refefence
Library Amritsar.
Kohli Sita Ram ; Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Delhi, 1853.
Nidhan Singh, Sant ; Jang Jamraud, Moga, 1937.
Pingal Ganesh Das ; Fateh Nama Guru Khalsa Ji ka ; Edited by
Sita Ram Kohli Patiala, 1952.
Prem Sineh Hoti Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Amritsar, 1931.
Phula Singh Akali.
Hari Singh Nalwa, Lahore, 1937.
Khalsa Raj de Vedeshi Karinde, Amritsar, 1945.
Khalsa Raj de Usariye.
Maharaja Sher Singh, Ludhiana, 1951.
Qadar yar ; Jang Nama Hari Singh Nalwa, Lahore, 1925.
Oadar var ; Var Hari Singh Nalwa, Edited by Dr. Ganda Singh,
Patiala 1965.
HABI SINGH NALWA
198 ] INDEX [ 199
Arjan Singh, Sardar, 173, 174, Baramula, 71, 72
INDEX Aryans, 66, 88 Baron Hugal, 14, 93, 123, 144,
Arz Begi, 161 182, 186, 190
Ashiq Muhammad, Mian, 16 Barr, 186 ; fort, 148
Ata Mohammad, 42, 53, 54, 60 Basana, 64
Abdal, Hassan, 124 Akal Sahai, 178 Batala, 10, 19' 57, 134
Atak, 57
Abas Mirza, 181 Akalgarh, 10 Bedi, Sahib Singh, 19, 26
Attar Singh Dhari, 39, 40, 41
Abdali, see Ahmed Shah Abdali Akalis, 47, 99, 122 Beg, Haji Sharif, 33
Attar Singh Kalianwala, 120, 145
Abdul Samad, 3 Akbar, 52 Behram Pass, 64
Attariwala, Sardar, 109
Administration, improvements Akbar Khan, 41, 149, 150, 156, Beli Ram, Missar, 173
in, 74-5 Attock, 59, 88, 89, 90, 94, 96 96
163, 171, 183 97, 127, 128, 134, 141, '\42 Bentinck, Lord William, 106, 109
Afghanistan, 34, 36, 46, 88, 103, Akhand Path, 147 143, 168, 188, 189, 190- boat 111, 112, 191; Lady Bentinck,
107, 126, 128, 135, 139, 149, Akora, 130 bridge on, 186; foot of, 52 ff
186 111
Alexander, the Great, 180 Avitabile, 158 Bhai Ram, 67
Afghans, 5, 6, 15. 21, 22, 34, 52,
53 55, 56, 57, 65, 83, 84, 88, Ali Khan, Mardan Khan, Aurangzeb, 73 Bhakker, 38
96' 97 98 99, 100, 101, 128, Nawabs, 156 Ayub Khan, 126 Bhangi, Gujjar Singh, 11
129 130, 135, 139, 141, 143, Allah-o-Akbar, 96, 99, 114 Azam Khan, Mohammad 149 Bhangi misal, 8, 12
144' 146, 149, 151, 152, 154, 160
156 157 158, 159, 160, 161, Allard, General, 106, 131, 157, Bhangis, 7, 8, 9, 11, 16, 17, 23,
158, 172 Azim Khan, 55, 60, 61, 62 95 33
162 163 164, 166, 168, 171,
172 182, 183, 190 ; forces, 55, 96, 97, 100, 101, 126, 128, 129 Bhasin, 18
Amar Singh Kalan, Sardar, 91
171 ; Settlement, 18e ; tribes, Azizuddin, Fakir, 42, 43, 54, 66 Bhawalpur, 32, 33, 35
Amar Singh, Majitha, 157 95, 105, 106, 107
168 ' Bhimber, 59, 61, 63, 67
Amar Singh, Sardar, 92, 159, 160 Bahadur, Maharaja, 137, 138
Afrids, 96, 147 Bhog of Guru Granth Sahib, 123
164
Afzal Khan, 6, 149, 156, 160, Bahadur Khan, 6
Amar Singh Sindhawalia, Sardar, Bihari Lai, Pandit, 23
161, 168, 171 87 Bahadur Shah, 3
Bir Dhar, 62
Agar Khan, 63-4 Amir Akhundzada Naib, 160, Bahawalpur, 27, 38
Agriculture, special attention to, Bolan Pass, 35
161, 163 Bairam Khan, 121
76 Bonded labour, 73
Amir Dost Mohammed, 156 Bakram Kalla, 60
Ahmad Khan, 37 Bostan Khan Tarin, 116, 117
Amir Khan, 129 Bala Hissar, 141, 143, 149
Ahmed Shah Abdali, 6, 7, 8, 32, Brahmins, 71, 138
Amir Shah Mohrmd, 34 Bala Kot, 124, 132, 133, fort of
33 186 Brij Raj Deo, 7, 9
Ahmad Shah, Sayeed, 117, 118, Amir Singh, 5
Baluch chiefs, 139 British darbar Simla, 177
119, 120, 122 Amirs, 104, 112, 129, 139, 141
Baluchistan, 103 British Government, 1, 30 36
Ahmad Yar Khan, 50, 84 Amritsar 2, 17, 23, 27. 30, 40. 104, 135, 136, 139, 174 175'
Bannu, 173
Ain-e-Akbari, 72 57, 66, 87, 174, 178 179
Ajaib Singh Randhawa, Sardar, Baradari, 185, 186
Anandpur, 3 Budh Singh, Baba, 2
151, 162 Barailly, 117, 129
Arbab Mohammad Khan, Budh Singh Sadhawalia, Sardar
Ajit Singh Sandhawalia, Sardar, Nawab, 161 Barakzais, 126, 128, 130 135 118, 130
107, 169 141, 142, 158 Bukhara, 128
Arbabs, 144
HARI SINGH NALWA INDEX
200] 201 ]
Dhantor, 83, 90, 93, 173 Ghandgarh, 90 Hari Mandir, Amritsar. 30
Buner hills, 120
Dhanna Singh Malwai, 45, 80, Ghazis, 80,81, 89, 90, 91,94 98 Hari Rai, Guru, 2
Bur], 82 107, 148, 164 99, 100, 101, 115, 116, 119',
Burj, Hari Singh, 142, 157, 186 120, 122, 124, 127, 130, 149 Haripur, 63, 93
Dharam Kaur, 13
Burma, 175 158, 159, 165 Haripur Hazara, 173, 185
Dharband, 90
Burnes, Alexander, 103, 6, 178, Dhian Singh, Mian, 89, 106, 170 Ghazni, 135 Harsharan Kaur, 153, 154, 155
188 171, 172 Ghouse Khan, 55 Harkrishangarh, 92; fort of 185
Central Asian invaders, 52 Dia Sinah. 54 Ghulam Ali Khan, Raja, 71, 72 Hashat Nagar, 156
Chakwal, 7, 8 Diwan Chand, Missar, 43, 45, Gill Chaudries, 34 Hashim Khan, 88, 89, 92
48, 50, 64, 66, 67, 83, 85, 128 Gobind Singh, Guru, 2, 25, 152 Hashmat Khan, 15, 16
Chandgarh, 94
Diwan Singh, 33
Charat Singh, 5, 6, 7 ; birth of 4 ; 177 ; martyrdom of, 3 Hassan Abdal, 122, 123
death of, 7 ; marriage of, 5 Dogra Rajas, 109
Golden temple, 17 Hassan Ali, 91
Dost Mohammad, 55, 56, 97,
Chatta tribe, 15 ; Chattas, 11, 16 101 117, 128, 135, 139, 140, Gujranwala, 5, 6, 8, 9 11 13 Hastnagar, 158
Chattar Singh, 173 41 146, 148, 149, 158, 159, 15, 44, 116', 144, 167, ' I72?
Hathi gate, 38
Chaudhries, 16, 17, 26, 73 160! 168, 171, 181 173, 174, 182, n85, 187 Hazara, 24, 82, 88ff, 114ff 144
Chenab, 8, 15, 34, 171 Dupliex, 180 Gujarat, 62, 169, 174 147
Chet Singh, 11, 16, 17, 18 Durani, Ahmed Shah, 3 Gul Mohammad Kazi, 85 Hazuri Bagh, 11,17
Chillanwala, 174 Durranis, 56 Gula^b Singh, 18, 106, 107, 142, Herat, 126, 138
Chillyar, 173 East India Company, 1, 101, 179 Himalayas, 88
Gulab Singh Shereill, Bhai 2 3 Hindus, 17. 27. 51, 75, 77. 179,
Chimni, Hukma Singh, 88 Eminabad, 58, 167 4
Chinoit, 157 England, 106 190 :
Guler, 117
Cis-Sutlaj Khan, 30 Europe, 1, 186 Brahmins, 71
Gullu Khan, 157, 169
Eusaf Zais, 133, 134 Hindustanis, 22
Coeur, Richard, 150 Gurbaksh Singh, 10
Fane, Sir Henry, 150 Huen-Tsang, 82
Court, 158 Gurbani, 1,77, 178, 187
Faqir Chand, Kotli, 173 Hugal, Baron see Baron Hugal
Dal Singh, Sardar, 50, 60, 84, Gurdip Singh, Sardar, 173
Fateh Din Khan, 30 Hukma Singh Chimmi, Sardar
127 Gurmatta, 51 24, 63, 89
Fateh Khan, 53, 54, 55, 56, 118,
Dalel Sidgh, 7 Guru Granth Sahib Ilhai Baksh, 43, 46
126
Damdama 82
Fateh Singh Kalianwala, 28, 36 see Sri Guru Granth Sahib Imam Baksh. 26
Darband, 93, 94
Fatehgarh, 142, 155 Habibullah Khan, 128 Indus,^55, 103. 108, 128, 131, 132,
Darbar Sahib, 66, 178
Dar-ul-Amaan, 32 Feroze Khan, 98, 127 Hadis, 121
Delhi, 4, 5, 190 Francese Campo, 158 Hafiz Ahmad Khan, 85 Industries, rural, 76
Dera Ismail Khan, 85, 86 Fyzulpuria misal, 35 Haider Khan, Gulam, 148 Isa Khel, 8
Ganda Singh, 33, 173 Islam, 71, 130, 146, 178
Derajats, 27, 128 Haidru, 55, 57
Ganesh Giri, a mandir, 93 Ismail, Moulvi, 120, 121
Deras, 136, 137 2 Haj, 129
Gardner, Alexander, 122, 13 '
Desa Singh Majitha, Sardar, 24 Haji Khan Kokar, 156 Jabbar Hhan, 62, 64, 65, 97 P6
158
Desan, mai, 8, 163, 173, 175 135,160,161 '
Gauharbar, 101 Hakims, 149
Devi Das, Diwan, 54, 66, 69 JafTar Jang, 45, 63
Ghakhars, 124, 125 Haqiqat Singh, Sardar, 9 Jaffarwal, 9
Dhammaur, 76
202] HART SINGH NALWJ
INDEX [ 203
Jagir (s). 23,30,31,42,44,49, Kagani Sayeeds, 120 Khalifat-ul-Musalmin, 131 Ladwa, 109
51, 54, 57, 68,83, 86, 87, 116, Kahar, 173 Khalsa, 33, 50, 82, 90, 92, 93, 95, Lahore, 3, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 16,
123, 125, 142, 173, 1S7 Kailash Garh, 142 98, 99, 154 : birthday, 25 ; 17, 8, 19, 22, 25, 26,27,28,
Jagirdars, 78 army, 21, 44,51,60, 63,81, 30, 40, 41, 42, 43, 49, 51. 55,
Kalahit, 109
Jahandad Khan, 54, 127 84,85, 90,97, 98, 114, 115, 56, 57, 61, 66. 67, 86, 89, 95,
Kala Bag, 33 117 1 9, 120, 121, 125, 127, 102, 105, 107, 108, 113, 116,
Jahangira, 96, 97, 127, 143. 174 ;
Kalal, Gulab Singh, 174 181 190; Khalsa Dal, 4; 117 125, 127, 132, 134, 139,
fort of 186 154 158, 163, 172; Lahore
Kallar, 173 Khalsa darbar, 83 ; Khalsa
Jai Singh, 7, 8, 10 faith, 8 6 ; Khalsa/wwirA, 152, darbar, 28, 30. 37, 43, 45. 48,
Jaimal Singh. 9 Kallianwalas, 109 153, 155 ; Khalsa Raj, 82, 57, 84, 90, 95, 96, 103, 106,
Kamal Khan, 88 170, 176 116, 117, 124, 126, 128, 134,
Jaipal, Raja, 165 135 139, 154, 158, 163
Jalalabad, 148, 158 Kamran, Prince, 126, 138 Khandhar, 128 174, 177 ; Lahori Gate, I I ,
Jalalpur, 8 Kanahayas, 9, 10. 33 ; f o r c e , 19; Khangarh, 85 17, 67 ; Shalmi Gate, 17
Jammu, 6, 7, 9, 23, 27. 33 misal, 18 Khanpur, 125, 173, 174 ; fort, 43 Lailli, 130
Kanahia Singh, 173 Khans, 144 Lai Kaur, 2
Jamraud, 163, 164, 165, 166. 167.
168, 172, 186; battle of, !46ff, Kandhar, 35, 130, 140 Kharak Singh. Prince, 43, 44, 45, Lambagaon, 117
161 ff ; fort of 171 65, 109, 110, 128, 158 Land reforms, 72
Kangra, 23, 117 ; fort. 10 Land r e v e n u e , 72, 77, 91, 144
Jandiala, 10 Kanpur, 175 Khat, 142
Japji, 14, 97, 187 K.hatak, 98 Landa, river, 119
Kapoor, Lala Gajju Mai, 167 Landi, river, 98
Jassa Singh, 10, 18 Khatris, 16, 71, 138
Kapur Singh, 3, 4 Landi Khanna, 151
Jawahar Singh, 172, 173. 174, Khattacks, 96
Kharak Singh, Prince, 99
175 Khillat(s), 19, 26, 69, 87, 120, 121 Leekie, 103
Jawala Singh, 63, 67, 120 Karakuram mountains, 66 Leh, 66
Khizri Gate, 38, 47
Jehad, 46, 95, 96, 98. 114, I I s . Karals, 91, 116 Khobra, 173 Lehna Singh. 33, 104, 107, 157
119, 129, 130, 135, 141. 146. Karam Chand Chahal, 55 Khushab, 36, 82, 84 Lehna Singh. Sandhawalia, 148,
148, 149, 151, 152, 162 Kardars, 80 Khushal Singh, 46, 84, 117, 157, 156
Jhanda Singh, 32, 33, 148 Kashmir, 24, 27, 44, 52. 53, 54. 158 Leia, 38
Jhang, 33, 35, 37 58, 62, 64, 67, 66, 84, 88, 99, Khushwant Singh, on Baba Budh Lhasa, 66
Jhelum, 5, 7 126, 128, 130, 132. 134, 147, Singh, 2 Londikotal, 117
186 ; annexed, 59ff; battle of, Khvber Pass. 52, 96, 127, 141, Ludhiana, 106, 110, 135, 136, 139,
Jind, 109 159; worst flood in, 75 143, 146, 147, 149, 150, 161, 140
Jitgarh, 144 Kasmira Singh, Prince. 142 162
Jodh Singh, Ramgarhia, 29 Lucknow,175
Kasur, 18, 23, 25ff, 28, 29, 37, Khyrabad, 56 Lundkhwar Valley, 143
Jodh Singh Russa, Sardar. 63 180, battle of, 169
Kabul, 34, 36, 52, 62, 96, 117, Kirpa Ram, 85 M a d h u s L i d a n , Pandit. 131
126, 128, 135, 136, 137, 138, Katoch, 10, 117 Kishan Chand, Lala, 136 Maha Singh. 1 15, J16
140, 141, 148, 149, 163, 168, Khad, 115 Kohat, 141 Mohan Sinsh, 7 . 8 , 9 . 10, 11, 13,
190 Khaibari, 133, 134 Kohin Dil Khan, 128, 140 123, 145, 147, 151. 152, 154,
Kabul, river, 148, 186 Khaiber, 138, 159, 161 Kot Hussan Ali Syeed Khan, 89 156, 166. 172, 173
Kachhi, 136, 137, 173 Khairabad, 118, 127 Kotli, 8 Mahomedans, 6
Kagan, 120 Khalifa, 131, 132, 134 Kundagarh. 45. 56 Mohtam, 35
Kup Rihora, 7 Mai Bhago, 153
204 ] HARI SINGH N A L W A INDEX