Babur’s March To Power: Birth Of The Mughal Empire In India | UPSC History

Babur, a descendant of Timur and Genghis Khan, was a ambitious ruler who laid the foundation of Mughal Empire in India. His advance towards India marked the beginning of a new era in the subcontinent’s history.

Background and Origins:

• Babur was born in 1483 in Ferghana(Uzbekistan)
• He inherited a small kingdom and faced numerous challenges from neighboring powers
• He got inspired his ancestors, he dreamed of establishing a powerful empire in India.

Conquests in Central Asia

• He was focused on establishing his power in Central Asia first.
• There he faced fierce opposition from powerful Uzbek chieftains but managed to secure his territories through military skill and diplomacy.

Invasion Of India:

• In 1526, Babur set his sights on the lands of northern India, ruled by the Delhi Sultanate.
• He led a small army of around 12,000 motivated soldiers to challenges the mighty forces of Ibrahim Lodi, the Sultan of Delhi

Battle Of Panipat:

• The battle of Panipat was a turning point in Babur’s campaign
• Despite being outnumbered, Babur’s tactics, including effective use of artillery, secured his victory.
• Ibrahim Lodi was killed in the battle, and Babur established his authority over Delhi and Agra.

Further Conquests:

• Babur faced numerous rebellions and challenges to his rule in the initial years.
• He dealt with these issues and expanded his territories through a series of military campaigns
• His conquests extended to regions like Punjab, Bihar, and Bengal

Legacy:

• Babur’s advances laid the foundation for the Mughal Empire, which flourished under his successors such as Akbar, and Shah Jahan
• He introduced new administrative reforms and policies that influenced the future rulers of the empire.

Babur’s advances towards India marked the beginning of a new chapter in Indian history. His conquests and reforms are studied as an integral part of India’s history legacy.