Description of Bakhtiyar Khilji's invasion of Bihar in Tabaqat-i Nasiri

Tabaqat-i Nasiri is a historical book written by Minhaj-i-Siraj, a Persian historian, in the 13th century. The book provides a detailed account of the history of the Delhi Sultanate from the Ghaznavid period to the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud. It is considered one of the most significant sources of information about medieval India.

Bakhtiyar Khilji was a Turkish general who served under Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. In the early 13th century, he invaded Bihar and defeated the Buddhist Pala dynasty, which had ruled the region for several centuries.

Minhaj-i-Siraj provides a detailed account of Bakhtiyar Khilji's invasion of Bihar in Tabaqat-i Nasiri. Some of the key points mentioned in the book are:

- Bakhtiyar Khilji arrived in Bihar with a small army of 18 horsemen and 200 foot soldiers.
- He first attacked the town of Nabadwip, which was a major center of Buddhist learning and culture.
- The local ruler, Laksmanasena, tried to resist the invasion but was defeated by Bakhtiyar Khilji's forces.
- Bakhtiyar Khilji then proceeded to destroy many Buddhist monasteries and temples in the region, including the famous Vikramshila and Odantapuri universities.
- According to Minhaj-i-Siraj, Bakhtiyar Khilji was not aware of the cultural and historical significance of these sites and ordered their destruction out of ignorance.
- The invasion of Bihar marked the beginning of the decline of Buddhism in India, as many monks and scholars were killed or forced to flee the region.

In conclusion, Tabaqat-i Nasiri provides valuable insights into Bakhtiyar Khilji's invasion of Bihar and its impact on the region's history and culture.