Humayun and The Afghans: A Tale Of Loss and Redemption | UPSC History

The reign of Humayun, the second Mughal Empire of India, was marked by a struggle against the Afghan novels who sought to dethrone him. 

Rise Of The Afghan Nobles

Humayun ascended to the throne in 1530, following the death of his father, Babur. However, his reign was immediately met with opposition from the Afghan nobles, who were discontented with Mughal rule and sought to establish their own dominance. The Nobles were led by Sher Shah Suri, a rebellion, causing Humayun to lose territories and face a severe setback.

Exile and the Battle Of Kannauj

Humayun was defeated by the Afghan forces, he was forced into exile and sought refuge in Persia. During this period, he faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but he never lost hope of reclaiming the empire. With the support of Persian ruler Shah Tahmasp, he was able to gather resources and military assistance to launch a counterattack against the Afghans.

Return and Redemption

In 1555, after 15 years of exile, Humayun returned to India to reclaim his empire. The Afghan rulers were taken by surprise, and Humayun, with a reorganized army engaged in a series of battles against the Afghan forces. The most significant of these battles was the Battle of Sirhind in 1556, where Humayun’s forces emerged victorious, leading the restoration of the Mughal Empire.

Humayun’s reign was a period of intense struggle against the Afghan nobles, which resulted in his temporary exile. His determination ultimately led to his redemption and the restoration of the Mughal Empire. 

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