Muslim Invasion in Punjab | Punjab State (PPSC) PSC: Preparation - PPSC PCS (Punjab) PDF Download

Introduction

Arrival of Islam in Punjab

• Islam was introduced to Punjab after Muhammad-bin-Qasim's conquest of Sindh in 712 on behalf of the Umayyad Caliphate.
• This victory paved the way for further Muslim conquests in the Indian subcontinent.

Mahmud Ghazni's Invasion

• The first major Muslim conquest of Punjab was led by Mahmud Ghazni, a Turkish slave commander and the son of Sabuktigin, founder of the Ghazni dynasty.
• Punjab was under the rule of the Hindushahi dynasty, led by Raja Jaipal, when Ghazni invaded.
• Raja Jaipal had established an empire from Sirhind to Lampaka, with Bathinda as its capital.

Ghazni's Campaigns

• Ghazni first clashed with Jaipal in 1001 CE.
• Between 1004 and 1006 CE, he attacked and conquered Multan and subsequently much of Punjab.
• The Ghaznavids maintained control over parts of Punjab and Sindh until 1135 CE.

Muhammad of Ghor

• Muhammad of Ghor, originally named Shahab-ud-din Muhammad, was a prominent figure in the history of India.
• He was born into the royal family of Ghazni and later ascended the throne there.
• His military campaigns in India began in earnest when he captured Multan in 1175, marking the start of his expeditions.
• Recognizing the strategic importance of Punjab, Muhammad Ghori focused on establishing a strong base in the region before expanding further into India.
• He successfully captured key forts at Hansi, Sarsuti, and Samana, and remained in Punjab for several years, consolidating his power.
• In 1186, Ghori conquered Lahore, followed by the capture of the forts at Sialkot and Debol.
• By 1190 CE, he had secured Multan, Sindh, and Punjab, setting the stage for further conquests into the Gangetic Doab.
• In 1191 CE, Muhammad Ghori achieved a significant victory by defeating and killing Prithviraj Chauhan, the last king of the Chauhan dynasty, in the Battle of Tarain.
• This victory marked a turning point, bringing the entire area under Turkish control and paving the way for further expansion into northern India.