Introduction
Muhammad of Ghor, also known as Muhammad Ghori or Muhammad
of Ghazni, was a powerful Islamic ruler who lived in the 12th century. He is
best known for his military conquests in the Indian subcontinent, which laid
the foundation for the establishment of the Ghurid dynasty in India.
Early Life and Rise to Power
Muhammad was born in the Ghor region of present-day
Afghanistan, which was then ruled by his father, Sultan Sahabuddin Ghori. He
was trained in the art of war from a young age and quickly rose through the
ranks of his father's army. After the death of his father, he took control of
the Ghurid kingdom and began expanding his territory through military
campaigns.
Conquests in India
Muhammad's most significant conquests were in the Indian
subcontinent. In 1175, he captured the city of Multan in present-day Pakistan,
which marked the beginning of his campaigns in India. He then moved on to
conquer the cities of Uchch, Lohkot, and Sialkot. In 1178, he defeated the
Rajput king Prithviraj Chauhan, who was considered one of the most powerful
rulers in India at the time. This victory gave Muhammad control over the
northern regions of India, including present-day Punjab and parts of Rajasthan.
In 1191, Muhammad launched an attack on the city of Delhi,
which was then ruled by the Chauhan king, Prithviraj III. The city fell after a
prolonged siege, and Muhammad established his control over the city, which
would become the capital of the Ghurid dynasty in India. He also captured the
city of Ajmer, and the entire Rajasthan region came under the control of the
Ghurids.
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Muhammad's Military Tactics
Muhammad was known for his innovative military tactics,
which allowed him to defeat much larger armies. He was particularly skilled in
the use of cavalry and mobile warfare, which allowed him to quickly move his
troops and outmaneuver his enemies. He also used psychological warfare, such as
spreading rumors and propaganda to weaken the morale of his enemies.
Muhammad's Legacy
Muhammad's conquests in India laid the foundation for the
establishment of the Ghurid dynasty, which would go on to rule large parts of
the Indian subcontinent for several decades. The Ghurids were known for their
tolerance of other religions and cultures, and they patronized the arts and
sciences. This led to a period of cultural and intellectual growth in the
region.
Muhammad's legacy also includes the construction of several
architectural and religious monuments, such as the Qutub Minar in Delhi, which
is considered one of the most important historical landmarks in India.
Conclusion
Muhammad of Ghor was a powerful Islamic ruler who lived in
the 12th century. He is best known for his military conquests in the Indian
subcontinent, which laid the foundation for the establishment of the Ghurid
dynasty in India. He was a skilled military leader, known for his innovative
tactics and ability to outmaneuver his enemies. His legacy includes not only
the establishment of the Ghurid dynasty but also the construction of several
architectural and religious monuments that still stand today.
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