Maharaja Ranjit Singh, known as Sher-e-Punjab (Lion of Punjab), was a remarkable warrior, visionary leader, and the founder of the Sikh Empire in Northwest Punjab, India. Born on November 13, 1780, in Gujranwala, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Ranjit Singh demonstrated extraordinary military prowess from a young age. At just 10 years old, he fought alongside his father in battle, earning the name "Ranjit" after their victory. His resilience was also evident in his early survival of a severe case of smallpox, which left him blind in one eye.
Under his reign, from 1801 to 1839, the Sikh Empire flourished, reaching its zenith. Maharaja Ranjit Singh is celebrated for uniting the 12 Misls (confederacies) of Punjab into a powerful and cohesive empire. His leadership was rooted in a deep sense of secularism and justice, creating an empire where people of different religions and beliefs could coexist and prosper. His vision extended beyond merely ruling; his goal was to serve and protect his people from both internal unrest and external threats. One of his first major actions as Maharaja was securing the Khyber Pass, the key route from Afghanistan into India, which had long been used by invaders. By closing this route, he safeguarded his empire from further plunder.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was supported by a loyal and capable team of commanders, most notably Akali Phoola Singh and Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa. These leaders played pivotal roles in leading the Khalsa Army to defend the empire’s borders and expand it from Kandahar (Afghanistan) to Leh-Ladakh (Tibet). Ranjit Singh’s army was unique not only because of its military might but also because of its diversity. He embraced modernity and inclusivity, employing commanders from different backgrounds, including French and American officers, to modernize his forces. This modernization made the Khalsa Army a formidable power, one that even the British, who were gradually taking over Indian territories, hesitated to confront during his lifetime.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh's secular outlook extended to his court, which was composed of a mix of Sikh, Muslim, and Hindu ministers, as well as foreign advisors. His ability to unite people from different backgrounds under a common purpose was a hallmark of his leadership. His secular approach and military strength allowed him to maintain peaceful relations with the British, who respected his sovereignty during his lifetime. It was only after his death in 1839 that the British were able to annex Punjab, following the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-1849).
One of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s most famous achievements was the recovery of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, one of the world’s most renowned gems. Originally taken by Afghan invaders during their plunder of India, the Koh-i-Noor was returned to India as part of a treaty Ranjit Singh negotiated with Shah Shuja Durrani of Afghanistan. However, after the British annexed Punjab in 1849, the diamond was taken to England, where it eventually became part of Queen Elizabeth II’s crown.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy is one of courage, inclusivity, and vision. He not only created a powerful empire but also fostered a spirit of unity and tolerance. His ability to modernize his army, unite diverse people, and protect India’s borders earned him a revered place in history. The British ruled Punjab for only 100 years after his death, a testament to the strength and stability he brought to the region. Today, Maharaja Ranjit Singh is remembered as one of India’s greatest leaders, a true lion of Punjab who transformed his empire into a symbol of strength, justice, and unity.
