Babur, the first Mughal emperor, was born in present-day Uzbekistan, and became ruler of Kabul in Afghanistan. From there, he invaded the kingdom of the Lodi Afghans in northern India in 1526 and established a dynasty that was to rule for three centuries.

Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire in India, originally came from Central Asia. He was born on February 14, 1483, in the city of Andijan, which is now part of Uzbekistan. Babur belonged to the Timurid dynasty, a Turkic-Mongol lineage that traced its origins to the famous conqueror Timur (Tamerlane).

Babur's Ancestry
- Babur's father, Umar Sheikh Mirza, was the ruler of Ferghana, a region in present-day Uzbekistan.
- His mother, Qutlugh Nigar Khanum, was a princess from the Chaghatai Khanate, a Mongol state in Central Asia.
- Through his lineage, Babur had both Timurid and Mongol ancestry.

Early Life and Struggles
- Babur became the ruler of Ferghana at the age of 12 after his father's death. However, he faced numerous challenges and had to fight against rival factions and external threats to maintain his control over the region.
- Despite facing several setbacks and temporary exiles, Babur possessed a strong ambition to establish his own empire.

The Invasion of India
- In 1504, Babur invaded the Indian subcontinent for the first time, capturing the city of Kabul (now in Afghanistan). However, he faced resistance from local chiefs and was unable to establish a lasting presence in the region.
- Babur made several unsuccessful attempts to expand his rule in India, facing defeats and retreats. However, he never abandoned his dream of conquering the fertile lands of Hindustan.

Battle of Panipat and Establishment of Mughal Empire
- In 1526, Babur finally achieved a decisive victory in the Battle of Panipat against the Sultan of Delhi, Ibrahim Lodi. This battle marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India.
- Babur's forces, although significantly outnumbered, utilized superior tactics and weaponry to overcome the enemy. This victory allowed Babur to establish his rule over Delhi and the surrounding areas.

Legacy
- Babur's conquests laid the foundation for the Mughal Empire, which would go on to become one of the greatest and most influential dynasties in Indian history.
- He introduced various administrative reforms, including efficient revenue collection and promotion of cultural and artistic activities.
- Babur also left behind his memoir, the "Baburnama," which provides valuable insights into the political, cultural, and social aspects of his time.

Overall, Babur's journey from Central Asia to India showcases his determination, resilience, and military prowess. His achievements laid the groundwork for the Mughal Empire, shaping the course of Indian history for centuries to come.