PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 11 Banda Singh Bahadur

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 11 Banda Singh Bahadur Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 11 Banda Singh Bahadur

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give a brief account of the early life of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe briefly the early life of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur occupies an honourable place in the Sikh history. With his ability he secured many significant successes one after the other in Punjab. A brief description of the early career of Banda Singh Bahadur is as under :

1. Birth and Parentage: Banda Singh Bahadur was born on 27th October 1670 A.D. at village Rajauri, in district Poonch of Kashmir. His childhood name was Lachhman Dev. His father’s name was Ram Dev, who belonged to the Dogra Rajput caste.

2. Childhood: Lachhman Dev belonged to an extremely poor family. When Lachhman Dev grew up a little, he began to lend a helping hand to his father in agriculture. In his free time, he would go out hunting with his bow and arrow. Gradually, he became a skilful hunter and a good shooter.

3. As a Bairagi: One day when Lachhman Dev was fifteen years old he shot a she-deer who was pregnant. She died in great pain. Therefore he decided to renounce the world. He became a barrage. He changed his name to Madho Das. One Day Madho Das came across a Yogi, Aughar Nath, who was famous for his achievements in Tantric Science (Occultism). Madho Das became Aughar Nath’s devotee. He soon became popular with the people because of his knowledge of occult science.

4. Meeting with Guru Gobind Singh Ji: In 1708 A.D., Guru Gobind Singh Ji had a chance to visit Nanded. During this meeting, a conversation took place between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Madho Das. Madho Das was so much impressed by the personality of Guru Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh baptised him according to Sikh traditions and renamed him Banda Singh Bahadur.

5. Banda Singh Bahadur proceeds towards Punjab: When Banda Singh Bahadur heard about the cruelties committed on the Sikhs of Punjab and the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Rajput blood in his veins began to boil. In order to avenge these cruelties, he sought Guru Gobind Sahib’s blessings and permission to proceed to Punjab. Guru Gobind Singh Ji accepted his request. He moved for Punjab in October 1708 A.D.

Question 2.
Who was Banda Singh Bairagi? How did he become a Sikh?
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur, whose first name was Lachhman Dev was a resident of Rajauri village in district Poonch of Kashmir. His father was a poor peasant. His heart was moved when he hunted down a pregnant she-deer. As a result, he turned a barrage. He changed his name from Lachhman Dev to Madho Das. He obtained teaching in occultism (Tantric Knowledge) from a saint of Panchvati, named Aughar Nath. Staying there for some time, Madho Das came to Nanded. It was at Nanded that a meeting took place between him and Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1708 A.D.

A discussion took place between Madho Das and Guru Gobind Ji. In this meeting, Madho Das was so much impressed by the personality of Guru Gobind Singh Ji that he became his Banda (slave). Guru Gobind Singh Ji administered him Amrit and gave him a new name Banda Singh Bahadur. In this way, Banda Bairagi became a Sikh.

Question 3.
Discuss the meeting of Banda Singh Bahadur with Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
In 1708 A.D., Guru Gobind Sing Ji had a chance to visit Nanded. Here, he heard about the magical powers of Madho Das. Once Guru Sahib visited the monastery of Madho Das along with some of his Sikhs. During this meeting, a conversation took place between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Madho Das. Madho Das was so much impressed by the personality of Guru Sahib that he fell at his feet and asked the following, questions to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Madho Das: Who are you?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji: He Whom you know.
Madho Das: What do I know?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji: Think it over in your mind.
Madho Das (after a pause): So you are Guru Gobind Singh!
Guru Gobind Singh: Yes!
Madho Das: What have you come here for?
Guru Gobind Singh: I have come so that I may convert you into a disciple of mine.
Madho Das: I submit, my Lord. I am a Banda(a slave) of yours.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji baptised him according to Sikh traditions and renamed him Banda Singh Bahadur. He was, now, no longer a Bairagi. He became a full-fledged Sikh.

Question 4.
What action and orders were given to Banda Singh Bahadur by Guru Gobind Singh Ji before sending him to Punjab?
Answer:
Before sending him to Punjab, Guru Sahib gave him a sword, five arrows, a council of 5 Pyaras Binod Singh, Kahan Singh, Daya Singh, Ram Singh and Baj Singh and 20 other brave Sikhs for his succour. Besides this, Guru Sahib issued some Hukamnamas (orders) to the Sikhs of Punjab. In these Hukamnamas Guru, Gobind Singh urged them to volunteer for service under the banner of Banda Singh Bahadur. Moreover, Guru Gobind Singh also advised Banda to follow these instructions :

Don’t approach a woman, but lead a life of chastity,
Always think the truth, speak the truth and act on the truth.
Regard yourself as a servant of the Khalsa and always act in accordance with his wishes,
Don’t try to form any sect of your own.
Don’t let victories elate you or kingly pride turn your head. Banda Singh Bahadur promised to obey the commands of the Guru. He moved for Punjab in October 1708 A.D.

Question 5.
How did Banda Singh Bahadur set up the Sikh empire?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji ordered Banda Singh Bahadur to lead the Sikhs in Punjab against the Mughals. When Banda Singh Bahadur came to Punjab, the Sikhs extended him their full cooperation. His first job was. to take revenge on Wazir Khan, the Nawab of Sirhind for the martyrdom of Guru Ji’s sons. With this objective in mind, he marched off to Sirhind with several Sikhs. On the way, Banda Singh Bahadur looted Kaithal, Samana, Kapuri and Sadhaura and slew many Muslims. In a bloody battle on May 12, 1710 A.D. at Chappar Chiri, Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind was killed.

The Muslims were massacred in large numbers. The conquest of Sirhind was a great success of Banda Singh Bahadur. He brought many regions of Ganga Doab, Jalandhar Doab and Gurdaspur under him. He made Lohgarh his capital. He issued new coins and established an independent Sikh State.

Question 6.
Give a brief account of the five important conquests of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe four major military achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
The main battles of Banda Singh Bahadur were as follows :

1. Attack on Sonepat: First of all Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Sonepat with his 500 Sikhs in November 1709 A.D. The ruler of Sonepat was so afraid of the Sikhs that he ran away to Delhi without facing them. This victory greatly enhanced the morale of the Sikhs.

2. Conquest of Samana: The executioners of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji lived in Samana. Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Samana and slaughtered many Muslims. It was the first and important conquest of Banda Singh Bahadur.

3. Conquest of Kapuri: The ruler of Kapuri, Qadam-ud-Din was very cruel. He ill-treated the Hindus. So, Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Kapuri, put to death Qadam-ud-Din and conquered the town.

4. Conquest of Sadhaura: Usman Khan the ruler of Sadhaura was notorious for his tyranny. He was a sworn enemy of the Hindus, He tortured and got Pir Buddhu Shah killed for he had helped Guru Gobifld Singh Ji in the battle of Bhangani. In order to settle the score for this insult, Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Sadhaura and slaughtered a large number of Muslims. That is why the place came to be known as Qatalgarhi.

5. Conquest of Sirhind: Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind had got the two younger sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, of Guru Gobind Singh Ji killed by bricking them alive in the wall. So, Banda Singh Bahadur wanted to teach him such a lesson that should be remembered by the Muslims for a long time. On May 22, 1710 A.D., Banda Singh Bahadur attacked the army of Wazir Khan at Chappar Chiri. The Sikhs massacred the Muslims to such an extent that they shuddered at the very thought of it. Wazir Khan was killed and hanged on a tree upside down. This glorious conquest further boosted the morale of the Sikhs.

Question 7.
Write briefly about the battle of Sirhind.
Or
Write a short note on the conquest of Sirhind by Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe Banda Singh Bahadur’s conquest of Sirhind. Why was this battle significant for the Sikhs?
Or
Give an account of the battle of Chapparchiri.
Answer:
Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind had got the younger sons (Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji bricked alive in a wall for not accepting Islam. It happened in December 1704 A.D. Moreover, it was Wazir Khan’s emissaries who had assassinated Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Nanded. Consequently, there was a great resentment among the Sikhs. They wanted to take revenge on Wazir Khan for this. This mission was accomplished by Banda Singh Bahadur, the disciple of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He gathered several Sikhs and attacked Wazir Khan at Chapparchiri on May 22, 1710 A.D. It was a bloody battle.

The Sikh’s slew Wazir Khan hung his body on a tree upside down and left it at the mercy of crows and vultures. Muslims were massacred on a large scale and many we’re burnt alive. Sirhind was taken under control. In this way, Banda Singh Bahadur took revenge on Wazir Khan for his cruel deeds. This important conquest boosted the morale of Sikhs to a great extent. Sirhind yielded annual revenue of more than 50 lakh, as a result of which Banda Singh Bahadur could further consolidate his power.

Question 8.
Write a short note on the battle of Lohgarh by Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
The increasing power of Banda Singh Bahadur was a challenge for the Mughals. Therefore, the Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah decided to crush the power of Banda Singh Bahadur. So, he sent a big force of sixty thousand soldiers under General Munim Khan to Punjab. This force suddenly attacked Banda Singh Bahadur’s capital Lohgarh on 10th December 1710 A.D. The Sikhs continued to resist the Mughals from inside the Lohgarh fort. As provisions were running short, it was not possible for the Sikhs to sustain the resistance for long. Banda Singh Bahadur was not a man who could easily be caught. He succeeded in escaping in disguise and went into the hills of Nahan. Next day when the Mughals took possession of the fort, they were disappointed to know that they had missed the catch.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on the battle of Gurdas Nangal.
Answer:
The Mughal Emperor Farrukh Siyar appointed Abdus Samad Khan, the Governor of Punjab to check the growing power of the Sikhs under Banda Singh Bahadur. He was directed to take stern steps against the Sikhs. .’Taking a vast army with him he surprisingly besieged Banda Singh Bahadur at Gurdas Nangal in April 1715 A.D. Banda Singh Bahadur and his Sikh companions fought against the Mughal army from the farmhouse (haveli) of Duni Chand. This siege continued for eight months. Gradually provisions were running out and the condition of the Sikhs grew critical.

At this juncture, Baba Binod Singh advised Banda Singh Bahadur to escape from the haveli but Banda Singh Bahadur refused to do so. As a result, Binod Singh escaped from the haveli with his companions. It further worsened the condition of Banda Singh Bahadur. At last Banda Singh Bahadur had to give in, perforce. Thus, Banda Singh Bahadur was arrested on December 7, 1715 A.D. along with his 200 Sikh companions.

Question 10.
When, where and how was Banda Singh Bahadur martyred?
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan had arrested Banda Singh Bahadur and 200 Sikhs from Gurdas Nangal. But to please the Mughal Emperor he arrested 540 more Sikhs on his way to Lahore. In February 1716 they were sent to Delhi. In Delhi, a big procession of the Sikh prisoners was taken out. Banda Singh Bahadur was put in an iron cage placed upon an elephant. Behind Banda’s elephant followed the rest of the Sikh prisoners. They were put in chains and mounted upon lame and worn down asses and camels. But there was not the slightest sign of dejection or humiliation on the faces of the prisoners.

The execution of the Sikhs began on 5th March 1716 and continued for a week. On June 9, 1716 came the turn of Banda Singh Bahadur.

He was offered the usual choice between Islam and death. But he refused to abjure his faith. Then his young son, Ajay Singh, about four years, was hacked to pieces before his eyes. Thereafter, the eyes of Banda Singh Bahadur were taken out one by one. Then his hands and feet were cut off. Thus, he was hacked to pieces limb by limb. Banda Singh Bahadur remained calm and serene amidst these tortures.

Question 11.
Mention the causes of early success of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
What were the five causes of early success of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Or
What were the five causes of success of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
The following factors can be attributed to his initial success :

1. The unbearable atrocities of the Mughals: The Mughal rulers of Punjab were sworn enemies of the Sikhs. They committed unending atrocities on them. The most hateful personality was Wazir Khan of Sirhind. He had bricked alive in wall the two younger sons Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He was also responsible for the martyrdom of Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji. They were martyred in the Battle of Chamkaur Sahib. All these factors made the Sikhs unite against Wazir Khan under the supreme command of Banda Singh Bahadur.

2. The Hukamnamas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji: Guru Gobind Singh Ji had despatched some Hukamnamas for Sikhs through Banda Singh Bahadur. Through these Hukamnamas or edicts, the Great Guru Sahib had appealed to the Sikhs to fight religious wars against the Mughals. The Sikhs obeyed these orders and their unbounded cooperation became a major factor for the military success of Banda Singh Bahadur.

3. Inefficient Successors of Aurangzeb: After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 A.D., there was a war of succession among his sons. Prince Muazzam, who assumed the royal title of Bahadur Shah could not pay the needed attention to Punjab. He had to face chaos or disorder in his kingdom. After his death in 1712 A.D., once again the war of succession was fought. Jahandar Shah became the next Mughal emperor. His illicit relations with a prostitute and lack of administrative capabilities wrecked the threads of the kingdom. So, Banda Singh Bahadur could achieve success after success in Punjab.

4. Praiseworthy Administration of Banda Singh Bahadur: Banda Singh Bahadur was. gifted with a good deal of administrative ability. The places conquered by him were efficiently administered. Highly able and honest officials were given top-ranking administrative jobs. The down-trodden, but deserving people were made to come forward to manage the administrative set-up. The aim of ‘land to the tillers’ was fulfilled. Moreover, impartial justice was given to one and all, therefore, Banda Singh Bahadur got the full support of the people of Punjab.

5. Efficient leadership of Banda Singh Bahadur: Banda Singh Bahadur was an intrepid and efficient military commander. He was an expert in the art of warfare and the soldiers under him were made to fight with religious fervour. He led his forces boldly. He also received co-operation from gallant or brave warriors like Baj Singh, Binod. Singh, Fateh Singh and Kahan Singh.

Question 12.
What were the five causes of the failure of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Or
What were the causes of the final failure of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Or
Write down the causes of the ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur against the Mughals.
Answer:
The causes of the ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur are as follows :

1. Strength of the Mughal Empire: Banda Singh Bahadur had limited resources. Compared with the Mughals, the number of his soldiers was also very small. Besides plundering, he had no other source of income. Under such conditions, it was quite impossible for Banda Singh Bahadur to crush the mighty Mughal empire.

2. Lack of Organisation among the Sikhs: The Sikh soldiers lacked organisation and discipline. They did not fight according to a set plan. Banda Singh Bahadur could not organise and discipline these soldiers. As a result, it was not surprising that such soldiers could not succeed.

3. Measures of Farrukh Siyar against the Sikhs: In 1713 A.D., Farrukh Siyar became the new emperor of the Mughals. He was a very cruel and merciless ruler. He could not tolerate the growing strength of the Sikhs under Banda Singh Bahadur. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs, he appointed Abdus Samad Khan, Subedar (Governor) of Lahore. Abdus Samad Khan spared no effort to crush the power of the Sikhs. Finally, he succeeded in arresting Banda Singh Bahadur and his fellows.

4. Surprise attack on the Sikhs at Gurdas Nangal: Abdus Samad Khan made a sudden attack on Banda Singh Bahadur in April 1715 A.D. Banda Singh Bahadur and his fellow Sikhs were besieged in the ‘haveli’ of Duni Chand. It was not easy to resist the Mughals for a long time. Despite these hardships, Banda Singh Bahadur sustained the resistance for eight months but finally gave in.

5. Differences between Banda Singh Bahadur and Binod Singh: Differences cropped up between Banda Singh Bahadur and Binod Singh during the battle of Gurdas Nangal. Binod Singh was in favour of running away from there. Banda Singh Bahadur was not prepared for it. He wanted to offer resistance for some more time. Owing to these differences, Binod Singh with his companions fled from the place. Consequently, Banda Singh Bahadur had to face defeat in the end.

Question 13.
Describe any-five traits of Banda Singh Bahadur’s personality.
Answer:
1. Physical Appearance: Banda Singh Bahadur’s physical appearance resembled to Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He had a thin body, medium height and wheatish complexion.. In reality, Banda Singh Bahadur’s personality was so impressive that even his enemies could not help being influenced.

2. Brave and Bold: Banda Singh Bahadur was very brave and bold. Banda Singh Bahadur did not lose heart in adversity. When he was besieged in the fort of Lohgarh, he pierced through the Mughal army, buf none could dare lay hands on him. He gave evidence of his unique courage in the battle of Gurdas Nangal. Hundreds of such examples can be cited from the life of Banda Singh Bahadur.

3. A true follower of Sikhism: Banda Singh Bahadur was a deeply religious man. He had firm faith in Sikh religion. He issued coins and mohurs in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

4. Tolerant: Although Banda Singh Bahadur was a devout Sikh, he was tolerant towards other religions. He committed no oppression on others to propagate his religion. His fight was against the Mughal tyrants, but not against the Muslims. He had recruited many Muslims in his army. They enjoyed full religious freedom. It is the most obvious proof of his tolerance.

5. As a Warrior and General. Banda Singh Bahadur was a great warrior and an eminent General. Compared with the Mughals, Banda Singh Bahadur’s resources were limited, but by virtue of his ability he got on the nerves of Mughal forces for 7-8 years. He won glorious victories in almost all the battles that he fought. In the battle-field, he would very promptly assess the situation and take quick decision accordingly.

Question 14.
Describe briefly the achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur as a warrior and general.
Or
Explain the main contributions of Banda Singh Bahadur as a brave warrior and great military organiser.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur was a great warrior and a top-class army commander. He had meagre resources in comparison to those of the Mughals, still he kept the Mughals on tenterhooks for 7-8 years through his sheer ability. He got glorious successes in almost all the battles he fought. He quickly guessed the situation in the battlefield and made quick decisions according to the situation. He was an expert in making moves in battles.

He did not consider it an insult in retreating if he sensed that the army of the enemy was vast. He started the battle only when he was confident of success. He used to fight in open fields, from hills or . from within the fort according to the need of the hour. In fact, his military strategy had made him a great general.

Question 15.
Write briefly about Banda Singh Bahadur’s achievements as an administrator.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur was an able administrator. He provided sound administration in the regions that he had conquered. He ruled in the name of Khalsa and promulgated the principles as shown to him by the Gurus. He shunted out the corrupt officials and appointed honest and worthy officials in their places. He appointed the poor and low-caste people to high posts and gave them the much needed respect. Banda Singh Bahadur did an admirable thing in abolishing the Zamindari system. The peasants were, thus, saved from tyranny of feudal lords.

The tillers of the soil were made the owners of the land. Banda Singh Bahadur was also known for his impartial justice. While doing justice he never made a distinction between high or low in his mind. Undoubtedly, the administration of Banda Singh Bahadur was in accordance with the Khalsa grandeur and dignity.

Question 16.
What is the place of Banda Singh Bahadur in the history of Punjab?
Answer:
Undoubtedly, Banda Singh Bahadur occupies a prominent place in the history of the Punjab. He was the first man who laid the foundation of political sovereignty of the Sikhs. He taught the Punjabis the lessons to do or die in order to resist tyrannies. In a short span of 7-8 years he succeeded in shaking the very roots of the mighty Mughal empire. It was indeed his most crowning achievement. He shattered the myth that the Mughals were invincible. He succeeded in infusing a new spirit among the Sikhs for the attainment of independence. The spark of independence ignited by him continued flickering internally which was ultimately converted into a blaze and which reduced to ashes the great Mughal empire.

Essay Type Questions:

Early Career:

Question 1.
What do you know about the early career of Banda Singh Bahadur? Explain briefly.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur occupies an honourable place in Sikh history. With his ability he secured many significant successes one after the other in Punjab. A brief description of the early career of Banda Singh Bahadur is as under :

1. Birth and Parentage: Banda Singh Bahadur was bom on 27th October, 1670AJ). at village Rajauri, in district Poonch of Kashmir. His childhood name was Lachhman Dev. His father’s name was Ram Dev, who belonged to the Dogr. Rajput caste.

2. Childhood : Lachhman Dev belonged to an extremely poor family. When Lachhman Dev grew up a little, he began to lend a helping hand to his father in agriculture. In his free time, he would go out for hunting with his bow and arrow. Gradually, he became $ skilful hunter and a good shooter.

3. As a Bairagi: Soon Lachhman Dev came into contact with a Bairagi named Janki Prasad. Being impressed by him, he too became a Bairagi (recluse) and joined his band. As per practice of the Bairagis, Janki Das changed Lachhman Dev’s name to Madho Das. This band of Bairagis, after many wanderings reached Panchwati (Nasik). Here, Madho Das came across a Yogi, Aughar Nath, who was famous for his achievements in Tantric Science (Occultism). Madho Das became Aughar Nath’s devotee. Being impressed by Madho Das’s service and devotion, Aughar Nath gave him the knowledge of occultism.

Before his death in 1691 A.D. Aughar Nath nominated Madho Das his successor. After staying there for some time, Madho Das came to Nanded. Madho Das soon became popular with the people because of his knowledge of occult science. Consequently, his small hermitage grew into a regular monastery.

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 11 Banda Singh Bahadur Img 1

4. Meeting with Guru Gobind Singh Ji: In 1708 A.D., Guru Gobind Singh Ji had a chance to visit Nanded. Here, he heard about the magical powers of Madhp Das. Once Guru Sahib visited the monastery of Madho Das along with some of his Sikhs. During this meeting a conversation took place between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Madho Das. Madho Das was so much impressed by the personality of Guru Sahib that he fell at his feet and said, “I am your Banda (slave)”. Guru Gobind Singh baptised him according to Sikh traditions and renamed him Banda Singh Bahadur. He was, now, no longer a Bairagi. He became a full-fledged Sikh.

5. Banda Singh Bahadur proceeds towards Punjab : When Banda Singh Bahadur heard about the cruelties committed on the Sikhs of Punjab and the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Rajput blood in his veins began to boil. In order to avenge these cruelties, he sought Guru Gobind Sahib’s blessings and permission to proceed to Punjab. Guru Gobind Singh Ji accepted his request. Before sending him to Punjab, Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave him five arrows and 25 other brave Sikhs for his succour.

Besides this, Guru Gobind Singh Ji issued some Hukamnamas (orders) to the Sikhs of Punjab. In these Hukamnamas, Guru Gobind Singh urged them to volunteer for service under the banner of Banda Singh Bahadur. Moreover, Guru Gobind Singh Ji also advised Banda Singh Bahadur to follow these instructions :

Don’t approach a woman, but lead a life of chastity.
Always think the truth, speak the truth and act on the truth.
Regard yourself as a servant of the Khalsa and always act in accordance with His wishes.
Don’t try to form any sect of your own.
Don’t let victories elate you or kingly pride turn your head. Banda Singh Bahadur promised to obey the commands of the Guru. He moved for Punjab in October 1708 A.D.

Question 2.
Discuss the military exploits of Banda Singh Bahadur and estimate their significance in the history of Punjab.
Or
Write in detail the battles fought between Banda Singh Bahadur and the Mughals.
Or
Explain the military exploits or achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
After reaching Punjab, Banda Singh Bahadur released the Hukamnamas (orders), which Guru Gobind Singh Ji issued in the names of the Sikhs. Thousands of Sikhs rallied around him, within a few days ready to fight and die under his banner. After this Banda Singh Bahadur embarked on his military exploits. His important conquests are as follows :

1. Attack on Sonepat: Banda Singh Bahadur started his victory spree from Sonepat. In 1709 A.D. he with his 500 Sikhs attacked Sonepat. The Faiijdar of Sonepat fled away to Delhi without offering any resistance. In this way, the Sikhs captured Sonepat without any difficulty.

2. Conquest of Samana: In Samana lived Jalaluddin, the executioner, who had martyred Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the executioners (Sashal Beg and Bashal Beg) who had bricked up alive in the wall two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Banda Singh Bahadur wanted to avenge these murderers. So in November 1709 A.D., he made a fierce attack on Samana. The Sikhs killed 10,000 Muslims and reduced the beautiful buildings of the town to heaps of ruins. It was the first great victory of Banda Singh Bahadur.

3. Conquest of Ghulam and Mustafabad: After the victory of Samana, Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Ghulam. The Pathans of this place could not offer any resistance and flee away. Banda Singh Bahadur attacked this town arid conquered it easily. Then, he attacked Mustafabad. The Faujdar of Mustafabad with his 2000 soldiers tried to resist Banda Singh Bahadur, but he had to give in before the enthusiasm of the Sikhs. As a result, the Muslims fled for life, leaving their guns behind in the battlefield.

4. Conquest of Kapuri: The ruler of Kapuri, Qadam-ud-Din was very cruel. He ill-treated the Hindus’. So, Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Kapuri, put to death Qadam-ud-Din and plundered the town.

5. Conquest of Sadhaura: The ruler of Sadhaura, Usman Khan, was notorious for his cruelties. He had got Pir Buddhu Shah tortured to death because he had helped Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the battle of Bhangani. In order to avenge these insults, Banda Singh Bahadur launched a vigorous attack on Sahara. Banda Singh Bahadur put to the sword such a large number of Muslims that the place came to be known as Qatalgarhi or slaughterhouse.

6. Conquest of Sirhittd; The conquest of Sirhind was one of the most significant victories of Banda Singh Bahadur. The Faujdar of Sirhind, Wazir Khan, had Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s two younger sons bricked up alive in a wall. Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s two elder sons had fallen martyrs in the battle of Chamkaur Sahib. A Pathan sent by Wazir Khan had stabbed Guru Gobind Singh Ji as a result of which Guru Gobind Singh Ji passed away.

Owing to these reasons Banda Singh Bahadur wanted to teach Wazir Khan such a lesson as the Mughals might remember for long. On May 22,1710 A.D. both the armies met at Chappar Chiri, 16 kms. from Sirhind, where a bloody battle was fought in the beginning. Fateh Singh killed Wazir Khan. It created panic among Muslim soldiers. The corpse of Wazir Khan was hung on a tree and left at the mercy of crows and vultures. This glorious victory infused a new confidence among the Sikhs.

7. Conquest of Jamuna-Ganga Doab : After the victory of Sirhind, Banda Singh Bahadur paid attention to the provinces of Jamuna-Ganga Doab. Soon after this Banda Singh Bahadur brought Behat, Nanota and Ambeta under his control. After these victories, Banda Singh Bahadur proceeded towards Jalalabad. Jalal Khan, the Faujdar of this place, was very cruel. Banda Singh Bahadur’s forces inflicted a crushing defeat on his forces, but could hot take possession of the fort.

8. Conquest of Jalandhar Doab: Shamas Khan was the Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab. He was a very cruel ruler. The Sikhs sought help of Banda Singh Bahadur. In October 1710 A.D. a fierce battle was fought between the forces of Banda Singh Bahadur and Shamas Khan at Rahon. The Sikhs emerged victorious. As a result the whole Jalandhar Doab came under his possession. After this Banda Singh Bahadur very easily took possession of Amritsar, Batala, Kalanaur and Pathankot.

9. Attack of Mughals on Lohgarh : The increasing power of Banda Singh Bahadur was a challenge for the Mughals. Therefore, the Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah decided to crush the power of Banda Singh Bahadur. So, he sent a big force of sixty thousand soldiers under General Munim Khan to Punjab. This force suddenly attacked Banda Singh Bahadur’s capital Lohgarh on 10th December 1710 A.D. The Sikhs continued to resist the Mughals from inside the Lohgarh fort. As provisions were running short, it was not possible for the Sikhs to sustain the resistance for long. Banda Singh Bahadur succeeded in escaping in disguise and went into the hills of Nahan.

10. Battle of Gurdas Nangal: Soon after Banda-Singh Bahadur consolidated his power. He very easily took possession of Bahrampur, Raipur, Kalanaur and Batala. On the instructions of Farrukh Siyar, Abdus Samad Khan made a surprise attack on Gurdas Nangal, Banda Singh Bahadur and-his men took shelter in the Haveli of Lala Duni Chand. The imperial forces laid siege to the Haveli, which lasted eight long months. The besiegers kept so watchful guard that not a blade of grass or a grain of corn could find its way in. Consequently, the Sikhs were reduced to great extremities.

They had to eat their horses, mules and even oxen. At this critical juncture, Banda Singh Bahadur developed some differences with Baba Binod Singh, the right hand man of Banda Singh Bahadur. Banda Singh Bahadur held on doggedly for quite some more time. Ultimately, he and his two hundred companions were forced to surrender on December 17, 1715 A.D.

11. Martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur: In February 1716 A.D. Banda Singh Bahadur and other arrested Sikhs were sent to Delhi. In Delhi a big procession of the Sikh prisoners was taken out. Banda Singh Bahadur was put in an iron cage placed upon an elephant. He was dressed in clownish clothes and was bound in chains. Behind Banda’s elephant followed the rest of the Sikh prisoners. They were put in chains and mounted upon lame and worn down assess and camels. There was hardly any one in the city, who had not come out to see the tamasha. They mocked at the grotesque appearance of the prisoners. But, there was not the slightest sign of dejection or humiliation on the faces of the prisoners. Life was promised to them on the condition of embracing Islam, but none renounced his faith.

On June 9, 1716 A.D. Banda Singh Bahadur’s young son, Ajay Singh, about four years, was hacked to pieces before his eyes. But he did not yield. Soon afterwards, he was also hacked to pieces. Patwant Singh aptly says, “So ended the life of a man who in seven short years had so mocked the might of the Mughals with his victories that they could never again reassert their authority over the land they had once ruled with such aplomb.”

Question 3.
Describe the career and achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:

Banda Singh Bahadur occupies an honourable place in Sikh history. With his ability he secured many significant successes one after the other in Punjab. A brief description of the early career of Banda Singh Bahadur is as under :

2. Childhood : Lachhman Dev belonged to an extremely poor family. When Lachhman Dev grew up a little, he began to lend a helping hand to his father in agriculture. In his free time, he would go out for hunting with his bow and arrow. Gradually, he became skilful hunter and a good shooter.

5. Banda Singh Bahadur proceeds towards Punjab : When Banda Singh Bahadur heard about the cruelties committed on the Sikhs of Punjab and the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Rajput blood in his veins began to boil. In order to avenge these cruelties, he sought Guru Gobind Sahib’s blessings and permission to proceed to Punjab. Guru Gobind Singh Ji accepted his request. Before sending him to Punjab, Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave him five arrows and 25 other brave Sikhs for his succour. Besides this, Guru Gobind Singh Ji issued some Hukamnamas (orders) to the Sikhs of Punjab.

In these Hukamnamas, Guru Gobind Singh urged them to volunteer for service under the banner of Banda Singh Bahadur. Moreover, Guru Gobind Singh Ji also advised Banda Singh Bahadur to follow these instructions :

Don’t approach a woman, but lead a life of chastity.
Always think the truth, speak the truth and act on the truth.
Regard yourself as a servant of the Khalsa and always act in accordance with His wishes.
Don’t try to form any sect of your own.
Don’t let victories elate you or kingly pride turn your head. Banda Singh Bahadur promised to obey the commands of the Guru. He moved for Punjab in October 1708 A.D.

After reaching Punjab, Banda Singh Bahadur released the Hukamnamas (orders), which Guru Gobind Singh Ji issued in the names of the Sikhs. Thousands of Sikhs rallied around him, within a few days ready to fight and die under his banner. After this Banda Singh Bahadur embarked on his military exploits. His important conquests are as follows :

4. Conquest of Kapuri: The ruler of Kapuri, Qadam-ud-Din was very cruel. He ill-treated the Hindus’. So, Banda Singh Bahadur attacked Kapuri, put to death Qadam-ud-Din and plundered the town.

They mocked at the grotesque appearance of the prisoners. But, there was not the slightest sign of dejection or humiliation on the faces of the prisoners. Life was promised to them on the condition of embracing Islam, but none renounced his faith.

Question 4.
Examine the causes of early success and ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
What are the causes of the initial success and ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Or
Give a brief account of the initial success and ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur.

1. Causes of Banda Singh Bahadur’s Early Success:

Answer:
After the death of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Banda Singh Bahadur, successfully and devotedly led the Sikhs to the path of glory in an admirable manner. The Sikhs welcomed and followed him because of Hukamnamas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and gathered under his flag in large numbers. Banda Singh Bahadur and his followers occupied many areas of Punjab within a short time and established the Sikh Rule.

The following factors can be attributed to his initial success :

1. The unbearable atrocities of the Mughals: The Mughal rulers of different parts of Punjab were sworn enemies of the Sikhs. They committed unending atrocities on them. The most hateful personality was Wazir Khan of Sirhind. He had bricked alive in wall two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They were Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji. He was also responsible for the mortyrdom of Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji, two other sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They were martyred in the Battle of Chamkaur Sahib. Gul Khan was hired by Wazir Khan and he fatally wounded Guru Gobind Singh at Nanded. All these factors made the Sikhs unite against Wazir Khan under the supreme command of Banda Singh Bahadur.

2. The Hukamnamas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji: Guru Gobind Singh Ji had despatched some Hukamnamas for Sikhs through Banda Singh Bahadur. Through these Hukamnamas or edicts, the Great Guru Sahib had appealed to the Sikhs to fight religious wars against the Mughals. The Sikhs obeyed these orders in letter and spirit and their unbounded co-operation became a major factor for the military success of Banda Singh Bahadur.

3. Inefficient Successors of Aurangzeb : After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 A.D., there was war of succession among his sons. Prince Muazzam, who assumed the royal title of Bahadur Shah could not pay the needed attention to Punjab. He had to face chaos or disorder in his kingdom. After his death in 1712 A.D., once again the war of succession was fought. Jahandar Shah, became the next Mughal emperor. His illicit relations with a prostitute and lack of administrative capabilities wrecked the threads of the kingdom. So, Banda Singh Bahadur could achieve success after success in Punjab.

4. Praiseworthy Administration of Banda Singh Bahadur : Banda Singh Bahadur was gifted with a good deal of administrative ability. The places conquered by him were efficiently administered. Highly able aqd honest officials were given top-ranking administrative jobs. The down-trodden, but deserving people were made to come forward to manage the administrative set up. The aim of ‘Land to the tillers’ was fulfilled with the abolition of Zamindari System. Moreover, impartial justice was given to one and all.

5. Banda Singh Bahadur’s Early Exploits were against petty local Mughal Officials: With the exception of Sirhind, Banda’s early military exploits were directed against petty and weak Mughal officials, who were no match .for his forces. The local inhabitants were fed up with the atrocities of these Mughal officials and readily co-operated with Banda Singh Bahadur in order to get rid of them. The central polity of the Govt, could not provide any help to these petty Mughal officials. That naturally led to military success of Banda Singh Bahadur and his forces.

6. Efficient leadership of Banda Singh Bahadur : Banda Singh Bahadur was an intrepid and efficient military commander. He was an expert in the art of warfare and the soldiers under him were made to fight with religious fervour. He led his forces boldly. He also received co-operation from gallant or brave warriors like Baj Singh, Binod Singh, Fateh Singh and Kahan Singh.

2. Causes of Banda Singh Bahadur’s Ultimate Failure:

1. Strength of the Mughal Empire : Banda Singh Bahadur had limited resources. Compared with the Mughals, the number of his soldiers was also very small. Besides plundering, he had no other source of income. Under such conditions, it plundering was quite impossible for Banda Singh Bahadur to crush the mighty Mughal empire.

2. Lack of Organisation among the Sikhs : The Sikh soldiers lacked organisation and discipline. They did not fight according to a set plan. Banda Singh Bahadur could not organise and discipline these soldiers. As a result, it was not surprising that such soldiers could not succeed.

3. Violation of Instructions by Banda Singh Bahadur: Before Banda Singh Bahadur proceeded to Punjab, Guru Gobind Singh Ji had given him some instructions. For sometime Banda Singh Bahadur followed these instructions faithfully, but then he began to deviate from them. Against the advice of Guru Sahib, he had married and started living a luxurious life. His victories and power had made him haughty. Besides, he tried to bring about changes in Sikhism. For example, in place of Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh, he introduced the word ‘Fateh Darshan’ and ‘Fateh Dharam’. As a result, several devotees of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, turned against him.

4. Measures of Farrukh Siyar against the Sikhs: In 1713 A.D., Farrukh Siyar became the new emperor of the Mughals. He was a very cruel and merciless ruler. He could not tolerate the growing strength of the Sikhs under Banda Singh Bahadur. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs, he-appointed Abdus Samad Khan, Subedar (Governor) of Lahore. Abdus Samad Khan spared no effort to crush the power of the Sikhs. Finally, he succeeded in arresting Banda Singh Bahadur and his fellows.

5. Surprise attack on the Sikhs at Gurdas Nangal: Abdus Samad Khan made a sudden attack on Banda Singh Bahadur in April 1715 A.D. Banda Singh Bahadur and his fellow Sikhs were besieged in the ‘haveli’ of Duni Chand. It was not easy to resist the Mughals for a long time. Despite these hardships, Banda Singh Bahadur sustained the resistance for eight months, but finally gave in.

6. Differences between Banda Singh Bahadur and Binod Singh: Differences cropped up between Banda Singh Bahadur and Binod Singh during the battle of Gurdas Nangal. Binod Singh was in favour of running away from there. Banda Singh Bahadur was not prepared for it. He wanted to offer resistance for some more time. Owing to these differences, Binod Singh with his companions fled from the place. Consequently, Banda Singh Bahadur had to face defeat in the end.

Question 5.
What were the reasons for the failure of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:

1. Causes of Banda Singh Bahadur’s Early Success:

After the death of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Banda Singh Bahadur, successfully and devotedly led the Sikhs to the path of glory in an admirable manner. The Sikhs welcomed and followed him because of the Hukamnamas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and gathered under his flag in large numbers. Banda Singh Bahadur and his followers occupied many areas of Punjab within a short time and established the Sikh Rule.

The following factors can be attributed to his initial success :

1. The unbearable atrocities of the Mughals: The Mughal rulers of different parts of Punjab have sworn enemies of the Sikhs. They committed unending atrocities on them. The most hateful personality was Wazir Khan of Sirhind. He had bricked alive in wall two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They were Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji. He was also responsible for the martyrdom of Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji, two other sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They were martyred in the Battle of Chamkaur Sahib. Gul Khan was hired by Wazir Khan and he fatally wounded Guru Gobind Singh at Nanded. All these factors made the Sikhs unite against Wazir Khan under the supreme command of Banda Singh Bahadur.

2. The Hukamnamas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji: Guru Gobind Singh Ji had despatched some Hukamnamas for Sikhs through Banda Singh Bahadur. Through these Hukamnamas or edicts, the Great Guru Sahib had appealed to the Sikhs to fight religious wars against the Mughals. The Sikhs obeyed these orders in letter and spirit and their unbounded cooperation became a major factor for the military success of Banda Singh Bahadur.

3. Inefficient Successors of Aurangzeb: After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 A.D., there was a war of succession among his sons. Prince Muazzam, who assumed the royal title of Bahadur Shah could not pay the needed attention to Punjab. He had to face chaos or disorder in his kingdom. After his death in 1712 A.D., once again the war of succession was fought. Jahandar Shah, became the next Mughal emperor. His illicit relations with a prostitute and lack of administrative capabilities wrecked the threads of the kingdom. So, Banda Singh Bahadur could achieve success after success in Punjab.

4. Praiseworthy Administration of Banda Singh Bahadur: Banda Singh Bahadur was gifted with a good deal of administrative ability. The places conquered by him were efficiently administered. Highly able and honest officials were given top-ranking administrative jobs. The down-trodden, but deserving people were made to come forward to manage the administrative set-up. The aim of ‘Land to the tillers’ was fulfilled with the abolition of the Zamindari System. Moreover, impartial justice was given to one and all.

5. Banda Singh Bahadur’s Early Exploits were against petty local Mughal Officials: With the exception of Sirhind, Banda’s early military exploits were directed against petty and weak Mughal officials, who were no match .for his forces. The local inhabitants were fed up with the atrocities of these Mughal officials and readily co-operated with Banda Singh Bahadur in order to get rid of them. The central polity of the Govt, could not provide any help to these petty Mughal officials. That naturally led to the military success of Banda Singh Bahadur and his forces.

6. Efficient leadership of Banda Singh Bahadur: Banda Singh Bahadur was an intrepid and efficient military commander. He was an expert in the art of warfare and the soldiers under him were made to fight with religious fervour. He led his forces boldly. He also received co-operation from gallant or brave warriors like Baj Singh, Binod Singh, Fateh Singh and Kahan Singh.

Question 6.
What are the causes of the ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur? What was his objective?
Answer:

2. Causes of Banda Singh Bahadur’s Ultimate Failure:

1. Strength of the Mughal Empire: Banda Singh Bahadur had limited resources. Compared with the Mughals, the number of his soldiers was also very small. Besides plundering, he had no other source of income. Under such conditions, it plundering was quite impossible for Banda Singh Bahadur to crush the mighty Mughal empire.

3. Violation of Instructions by Banda Singh Bahadur: Before Banda Singh Bahadur proceeded to Punjab, Guru Gobind Singh Ji had given him some instructions. For some time Banda Singh Bahadur followed these instructions faithfully, but then he began to deviate from them. Against the advice of Guru Sahib, he had married and started living a luxurious life. His victories and power had made him haughty. Besides, he tried to bring about changes in Sikhism. For example, in place of Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh, he introduced the word ‘Fateh Darshan’ and ‘Fateh Dharam’. As a result, several devotees of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, turned against him.

Question 7.
Form an estimate of the character and achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe in detail the achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Assess the character and achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur. Was he a ruthless blood-sucker?
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur possessed a multi-faceted personality. He was a great warrior, an able general, an efficient administrator, tolerant, a true disciple of Sikh religion, a well-wisher of the poor, an opponent of injustice and a man of noble principles. His character proved a source of great inspiration for the coming generations.

1. As a Man:

1. Physical Appearance: Banda Singh Bahadur’s had a very charming personality. He had a thin body, medium height and wheatish complexion. In reality, Banda Singh Bahadur’s personality was so impressive that even his enemies could not help being influenced.

2. Brave and Bold: Banda Singh Bahadur was very brave and bold. Banda Singh Bahadur did not lose heart in adversity. When he was besieged in the fort of Lohgarh, he pierced through the Mughal army, but none could dare lay hands on him. He gave evidence of his unique courage in the battle of Gurdas Nangal. Hundreds of such examples can be cited from the life of Belinda Singh Bahadur.

3. A true follower of Sikhism: Banda Singh Bahadur was a deeply religious man. He had firm faith in the Sikh religion. He issued coins and mohUrs in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

5. High Character: Banda Singh Bahadur was a man of high character. He led a very simple and pious life. He had never made use of meat, wine and other intoxicants. He had great respect for women. He had instructed the Sikhs not to misbehave with women during the battles. Even the women of the enemies were fully respected. It was proof of the fact that Banda Singh Bahadur was a man of high character.

2. As a Warrior and General:

Banda Singh Bahadur was a great warrior and an eminent General. Compared with the Mughals, Banda Singh Bahadur’s resources were limited, but by virtue of his ability he got on the nerves of Mughal forces for 7-8 years. He won glorious victories in almost all the battles that he fought. In the battle-field, he would very promptly assess the situation and take quick decision accordingly. He was a great strategist. If at a point, he realized that the number of enemy forces was stronger, he would not think it below dignity to withdraw. He would start a battle only, when he was sure of his victory. He would invariably attack at the weak point of the enemy in order to ensure his victory.

He would fight in the open or from the hills and forests according to the need of the situation. In fact, these war strategies had made him a top-class General. The famous historian S.S. Gandhi is quite apt when he says, “He was a warrior and General of the highest order.”

3. As an Administrator:

Banda Singh Bahadur was an able administrator. He had set up an efficient administration in the areas conquered by him. He dismissed Muslim officers because they had become very cruel and corrupt. In their places were appointed able Hindus and Sikhs He also appointed the low-caste people to high posts in his administration. Banda Singh Bahadur did a wonderful job of abolishing the Zamindari system. Thus, the tillers became landowners. Banda Singh Bahadur was also known for his impartial and prompt justice. While dispensing justice, he never discriminated between the high and the low. Harbans Singh aptly says, “Banda Singh’s rule, though short-lived, had a far-reaching impact on tile history of the Punjab.”

4. As an Organiser:

Banda Singh Bahadur was a great organiser. At the time, when he came from Nanded to Punjab, he had only 25 Sikhs with him, but soon he mobilised thousands of Sikhs under his banner. He infused a new spirit into them and prepared them to face the powerful Mughal empire. It was with the help of these Sikhs that Banda Singh Bahadur was able to shake the mighty Mughal empire to its very foundations. Moreover under the able leadership of Banda Singh Bahadur, these Sikhs were prepared to sacrifice their every thing. Consequently, Banda Singh Bahadur succeeded in establishing an independent Sikh State in Punjab.

5. Banda Singh Bahadur’s Place in History:

Banda Singh Bahadur occupies an important place in the history of Punjab. He was able to shake the foundations of the mighty Mughal empire in a short period of 7-8 years. It was indeed his remarkable achievement. The notion that the Mughals were invincible was proved wrong by Banda Singh Bahadur. He infused a new spirit among the Sikhs to achieve independence. The spark of independence ignited by him, took the shape of conflagration, which enveloped the Mughal empire and reduced it to ashes. By abolishing the Zamindari system, he took a very revolutionary step.

He set up an example by appointing the poor and the destitute to the highest positions in the territories under his rule. Undoubtedly, the character and achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur were great. Dr. Raj Pal Singh aptly says, “No doubt, Banda Singh Bahadur emerges as one of the most outstanding leaders that produced in the eighteenth century. In fact, his name has come to symbolize freedom, dedication and sacrifice.” Dr. G.S. Deol aptly writes, “Banda Singh Bahadur occupies a significant place in the history of the Punjab of the 18th century.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What was Banda Singh Bahadur’s childhood name? Why did he become a Bairagi?
Or
Give a brief account of the early life of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe briefly the early life of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
The name of Banda Singh Bahadur in his childhood was Lachhman Dev. He was very fond of hunting right from his childhood. One day he shot at a she-deer who was pregnant. When Lachhman Dev cut open its belly, two offsprings also died after writhing for some time. This heart moving scene left a deep impact on Lachhman Dev’s mind. Impressed by the personality of a Janki Prasad, Lachhman Dev became a Bairagi.

Question 2.
Who was Banda Bairagi? How did he become a Sikh?
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur, whose first name was Lachhman Dev was a resident of Rajouri village in district Poonch of Kashmir. His heart was moved when he hunted down a pregnant she-deer. As a result, he became a bairagi. He changed his name from Lachhman Dev to Madho Das. It was Nanded that Madho Das met Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1708 A.D. He was so much impressed by the personality of Guru Gobind Singh Ji that he became a Sikh.

Question 3.
What action and orders were given to Banda Singh Bahadur by Guru Gohind Singh Ji before sending him to Punjab?
Answer:
Before sending Banda Singh Bahadur to Punjab, Guru Sahib gave him a sword, five arrows, 5 Pyaras and 20 other brave Sikhs for his help. Besides this, Guru Sahib issued some Hukamnamas (orders) to the Sikhs of Punjab. Guru Gobind Singh Ji also advised Banda Singh Bahadur to follow :

Not to approach a woman, but lead a life of chastity,
Always, speak the truth,
Regard yourself as a servant of the Khalsa.
Not to found any sect of your own.
Never let victories elate you.

Question 4.
How did Banda Singh Bahadur establish the Sikh State?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji ordered Banda Singh Bahadur to lead the Sikhs in Punjab against the Mughals. When Banda Singh Bahadur came to Punjab, the Sikhs extended him their full cooperation. He soon conquered Sonipat, Kaithal, Samana, Kapuri and Sahara. The conquest of Sirhind in 1710 A.D. was a great success for Banda Singh Bahadur. He made Lohgarh his capital. He issued new coins and established an independent Sikh State.

Question 5.
Give a brief account of any three important conquests of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe any three major military achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:

Banda Singh Bahadur’s conquests started in 1709 A.D. from Sonipat which he conquered easily.
He attacked Samana in 1709 A.D. and massacred 10 thousand Muslims.
He attacked Kapuri and slew Qadam-ud-Din.
The ruler of Sadhaura was also notorious for his cruelties. Banda Singh Bahadur put to death a large number of Muslims in cold blood.
To teach a lesson to Wazir Khan, Banada Singh Bahadur attacked his army at Chapparchiri on May 22, 1710 A.D and gave them a crushing defeat.

Question 6.
Write a short note on the conquest of Sadhaura by Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
The ruler of Sadhaura, Usman Khan, was notorious for his cruelties. There was hardly a Hindu woman whose honour had not been attacked by his lust. Moreover, he never allowed the Hindus to celebrate their festivals. Cows were slaughtered in front of the Hindu houses. Banda Singh Bahadur launched a vigorous attack on Sadhaura. Banda Singh Bahadur put to the sword such a large number of Muslims that the place came to be known as Qatalgarhi.

Question 7.
Describe the conquest of Sirhind.
Or
Write briefly about the battle of Sirhind.
Or
Write a short note on conquest of Sirhindby Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Describe Banda Singh Bahadur’s conquest of Sirhind. Why was this battle significant for the Sikhs?
Or
Give an account of the battle of Chapparchiri.
Answer:
There was a great resentment among the Sikhs. They wanted to take revenge on Wazir Khan for bricking alive in the wall the younger Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. So Banda Singh Bahadur, attacked Wazir Khan at Chapparchiri on May 22,1710 AD. It was a bloody battle. The Sikhs slew Wazir Khan, hung his body on a tree upside down and left it at the mercy of crows and vultures. The whole city was mercilessly plundered and Sirhind was taken under control. This conquest boosted the morale of the Sikhs.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on the battle of Gurdas Nangal.
Answer:
Abdus-Samad-Khan besieged Banda Singh Bahadur at Gurdas Nangal in April 1715 A.D. This siege continued for eight months. Gradually provisions ran out and the condition of the Sikhs grew critical. At this juncture, Baba Binod Singh advised Banda Singh Bahadur to escape from the haveli but Banda Singh Bahadur refused to do so. So, Binod Singh escaped from the haveli with his companions. At last Banda Singh Bahadur had to give in on December 7, 1715 A.D.

Question 10.
When, where and how was Banda Singh Bahadur martyred?
Answer:
In February 1716 AD. Banda Singh Bahadur and 740 Sikhs were sent to Delhi. In Delhi, a big procession of the Sikh prisoners was taken out. On June 9, 1716 came the turn of Banda Singh Bahadur. He was offered the usual choice between Islam and death. But he refused to abjure his faith. Then his young son, Ajay Singh, only four years old, was hacked to pieces before his eyes. Thereafter, Banda Singh Bahadur was hacked to pieces limb by limb. The martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur infused a new confidence among the Sikhs.

Question 11.
Mention the causes of early success of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
What were the main causes of early success of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Or
Write any three causes of early success of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:

The people of Punjab were infuriated by the great atrocities of the Mughal rulers on Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his Sikhs.
The Hukumnamas issued by Guru Gobind Singh Ji appealed to the Sikhs of Punjab so they gave every support to Banda Singh Bahadur.
The successors of Aurangzeb were incompetent. Therefore, they could not pay attention to the rising power of the Sikhs.
Banda Singh Bahadur got the support of many Sikh Sardars.
Banda Singh Bahadur’s efficient administration also went a long way in bringing him success.

Question 12.
What were the causes of final failure of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Or
Mention the causes of ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Write any three causes of the failure of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Or
Give any three causes of failure of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:

Banda Singh Bahadur’s had to face Mughal empire which was very powerful at that time,
Banda Singh Bahadur violated the instructions given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
The Hindu chiefs and feudal lords of the Punjab also sided with the Mughal government against the Sikhs,
Abdus Samad Khan, the Governor of Punjab, left no stone unturned in crushing the Sikh power.

Question 13.
Describe the main traits of Banda Singh Bahadur’s personality.
Answer:

Banda Singh Bahadur was very daring and fearless. He was never unnerved in the face of heavy odds,
He was a true follower of Sikhism. He issued coins in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Banda Singh Bahadur was a great army commander. Despite his limited resources, he kept the Mughal rulers on tenterhooks,
Banda Singh Bahadur was also an able administrator. He provided good administration in the conquered areas.

Question 14.
Describe briefly the achievements of Banda Singh Bahadur as a warrior and general.
Or
Explain the main contributions of Banda Singh Bahadur as a brave warrior and great military organiser.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur was a great warrior and a top-class army commander. He had meagre resources in comparison to those of the Mughals, still, he kept the Mughals on tenterhooks for 7-8 years through his sheer ability. He got glorious success in almost all the battles he fought. He quickly accessed the situation in the battlefield and made quick decisions. He was an expert in making moves in battles. He used to initiate the battle only when he was confident of success.

Question 15.
Write briefly about Banda Singh Bahadur’s achievements as an administrator.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur was an able administrator. He provided sound administration in the regions that he had conquered. He shunted out the corrupt officials and appointed honest and worthy officials in their places. He appointed the poor and low-caste people to high posts and gave them the much-needed respect. Banda Singh Bahadur did an admirable thing in abolishing the Zamindari system.

Question 16.
What is the place of Banda Singh Bahadur in the History of Punjab?
Or
What is the main contribution of Banda Singh Bahadur to Sikhs?
Answer:
Undoubtedly, Banda Singh Bahadur occupies a prominent place in the History of Punjab. He was the first man who laid the foundation of the political sovereignty of the Sikhs. He taught the Punjabis the lesson to do or die in order to resist tyrannies. In a short span of 7-8 years, he succeeded in shaking the very roots of the mighty Mughal empire. The spark of independence ignited by him continued flickering and which ultimately reduced the great Mughal empire to ashes.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
When was Banda Singh Bahadur born?
Answer:
October 27, 1670 A.D.

Question 2.
Where was Banda Singh Bahadur born?
Answer:
Rajauri.

Question 3.
What was the real name of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
Lachhman Dev.

Question 4.
What was the name of the father of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
Ram Dev.

Question 5.
What name did Banda Singh Bahadur adopt after becoming Bairagi?
Answer:
Madho Das.

Question 6.
Why did Banda Singh Bahadur become Bairagi (ascetic)?
Or
Narrate the event in the early life of Banda Singh Bahadur on account of which he became a Bairagi.
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur had hunted a pregnant she-deer.

Question 7.
Where did Banda Singh Bahadur meet Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
At Nanded.

Question 8.
Who gave the name of Banda Singh Bahadur to Madho Das?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 9.
When did Banda Singh Bahadur start his military exploits?
Answer:
1709 A.D.

Question 10.
From where did Banda Singh Bahadur start his military exploits?
Answer:
Sonepat.

Question 11.
Which was the first important conquest of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
Samana.

Question 12.
Why did Banda Singh Bahadur attack Sadhaura?
Answer:
Because the ruler of Sadhaura Usman Khan was known for his acts of tyranny.

Question 13.
Which was the most important conquest of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
Sirhind.

Question 14.
When was Sirhind conquerred by Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
May 22, 1710 A.D.

Question 15.
Why did Banda Singh Bahadur attack Sirhind?
Answer:
Because the Faujdar of Sirhind was the enemy of the Sikhs.

Question 16.
Who was defeated by Banda Singh Bahadur in the battle of Sirhind?
Answer:
Wazir Khan,

Question 17.
Who was Wazir Khan?
Answer:
Faujdar of Sirhind.

Question 18.
Name the capital of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
Lohgarh.

Question 19.
Which princess did Banda Singh Bahadur marry?
Answer:
Princess of Chamba.

Question 20.
What was the name of Banda Singh Bahadur’s son?
Answer:
Ajai Singh.

Question 21.
Which was the last battle fought between Banda Singh Bahadur and the Mughals?
Answer:
Gurdas Nangal.

Question 22.
Who was the Chief Commander of the Mughal forces in the last battle between Banda Singh Bahadur and the Mughals?
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan.

Question 23.
When was the battle of Gurdas Nangal fought?
Answer:
1715 A.D.

Question 24.
When was Banda Singh Bahadur martyred?
Answer:
June 9, 1716 A.D.

Question 25.
Where was Banda Singh Bahadur martyred?
Answer:
Delhi.

Question 26.
Who was the Mughal emperor at the time of martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
Farrukh Siyaf.

Question 27.
Mention any one cause for the initial success of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
Due to the atrocities of the Mughals, the people of Punjab rebelled under the banner of Banda Singh Bahadur. ”

Question 28.
Mention any one cause for the ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
The sources of Banda Singh Bahadur were limited in comparison to those of the Mughals.

Question 29.
In whose names did Banda Singh Bahadur issue coins?
Answer:
Nanak Shahi and Gobind Shahi.

Question 30.
What was the main contribution of Banda Singh Bahadur to the Sikhs?
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur taught the Sikhs the lesson of political independence.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Banda Singh Bahadur was bom in ………………..
Answer:
1670 A.D.

2. Banda Singh Bahadur was born in ………………. village.
Answer:
Rajauri

3. The name of the father of Banda Singh Bahadur was …………….
Answer:
Ram Dev

4. The earlier name of Banda Singh Bahadur was
Answer:
Lachhman Dev

5. The hunting of a ………………. changed the entire course of his career.
Answer:
She deer

6. Bairagi Janaki Das changed Lachhman Dev’s name to ……………..
Answer:
Madho Das

7. In 1708 A.D. Banda Singh Bahadur met Guru Gobind Singh Ji at ………………
Answer:
Nanded

8. Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave Madho Das, the name …………………..
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur

9. Banda Singh Bahadur started his military exploits from ……………..
Answer:
Sonepat

10. Banda Singh Bahadur won Sonepat in ………………
Answer:
1709 A.D.

11. Banda Singh Bahadur gave a crushing defeat to ruler of Sadhaura, ……………..
Answer:
Usman Khan

12. ……………….. was the Faujdar of Sirhind at the time of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
Wazir Khan

13. Banda Singh Bahadur appointed ……………… as the ruler of Sirhind.
Answer:
Baaz Singh

14. The name of the Capital of Banda Singh Bahadur was ………………..
Answer:
Lohgarh

15. The Battle of Gurdas Nangal was fought in ………………
Answer:
1715 A.D.

16. Banda Singh Bahadur was martyred at ……………..
Answer:
Delhi

17. Banda Singh Bahadur was martyred in ………………
Answer:
1716 A.D.

18. The first coins of Sikhism were issued by ……………..
Answer:
Banda Singh Bahadur

True or False:

1. Banda Singh Bahadur was born on 27 October, 1670 A.D.
Answer:
True

2. Banda Singh Bahudur was born at Rajauri.
Answer:
True

3. Lachhman Dev was the name of the father of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
False

4. The childhood name of Banda Singh Bahadur was Ramdev.
Answer:
False

5. Janaki Parsad, a Bairagi changed the name of Lachman Dev to Madho Das.
Answer:
True

6. Guru Gobind Singh Ji met Banda Bahadur in Delhi.
Answer:
False

7. Banda Singh Bahadur started his military exploits in 1709 AD from Sonepat.
Answer:
True

8. Banda Singh Bahadur defeated Qadam-ud-din at Kapuri.
Answer:
True

9. Banda Singh Bahadur defeated Usman Khan, ruler of Sadhaura.
Answer:
True

10. Banda Singh Bahadur conquered Sirhind in 1710 A.D.
Answer:
True

11. The most important victory of Banda Singh Bahadur was that of Ropar.
Answer:
False

12. Wazir Khan was the Faujdar of Sirhind at the time of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
True

13. Banda Singh Bahadur made Lohgarh his capital.
Answer:
True

14. The battle of Gurdas-Nangal was fought in 1715 A.D.
Answer:
True

15. Banda Singh Bahadur was martyred in 1716 A.D.
Answer:
True

16. Banda Singh Bahadur was martyred at Lahore.
Answer:
False

17. Banda Singh Bahadur was the first ruler of Punjab to issue Sikh coins.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. When was Banda Singh Bahadur born?
(a) In 1625 A.D.
(b) In 1660 A.D.
(c) In 1670 A.D.
(d) In 1675 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1670 A.D.

2. Where was Banda Singh Bahadur born?
(a) Rajgarh
(b) Rajouri
(c) Sadhaura
(d) Nanded.
Answer:
(b) Rajouri

3. What was the original name of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Lachhman Dev
(b) Ram Dev
(c) Madho Das
(d) Garib Das.
Answer:
(a) Lachhman Dev

4. What was the name of the father of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Nam Dev
(b) Ram Dev
(c) Seh Dev
(d) Lachhman Dev
Answer:
(b) Ram Dev

5. Why did Banda Singh Bahadur become Bairagi?
(a) For hunting a pregnant she-deer
(b) For hunting a pregnant lioness
(c) For hunting a pregnant she-elephant
(d) None of these.
Answer:
(a) For hunting a pregnant she-deer

6. What name did Banda Singh Bahadur adopt after becoming a Bairagi?
(a) Lachhman Das
(b) Ram Dev
(c) Janki Parsad
(d) Madho Das
Answer:
(d) Madho Das

7. Where did Banda Singh Bahadur meet Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Sri Anandpur Sahib
(b) Amritsar
(c) Goindwal Sahib
(d) Nanded
Answer:
(d) Nanded

8. Why did Guru Gobind Singh Ji send Banda Singh Bahadur to Punjab?
(a) To establish Sikh rule.
(b) To take revenge on the Mughals for their tyranny
(c) To take revenge on the Afghans for their tyranny
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(b) To take revenge on the Mughals for their tyranny

9. When did Banda Singh Bahadur start his military exploits?
(a) In 1708 A.D.
(b) In 1709 A.D.
(c) In 1710 A.D.
(d) In 1713 A.D.
Answer:
(b) In 1709 A.D.

10. From where did Banda Singh Bahadur start his military exploits?
(a) Panipat
(b) Sonipat
(c) Samana
(d) Kapuri
Answer:
(b) Sonipat

11. Which ruler of Sadhaura was defeated by Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Rehmat Khan
(b) Zakariya Khan
(c) Usman Khan
(d) Wazir Khan
Answer:
(c) Usman Khan

12. Which was the most important victory (conquest) of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Sadhaura
(b) Lohgarh
(c) Ropar
(d) Sirhind
Answer:
(d) Sirhind

13. Who was the Faujdar of Sirhind at the time of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Wazir Khan
(b) Nazeeb Khan
(c) Mir Mannu
(d) Zakariya Khan
Answer:
(a) Wazir Khan

14. When did Banda Singh Bahadur conquer Sirhind?
(a) In 1708 A.D.
(b) 1709 A.D.
(c) In 1710 A.D.
(d) 1712 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1710 A.D.

15. What was the name of the capital of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Lohgarh
(b) Gurdas Nangal
(c) Amritsar
(d) Kalanaur
Answer:
(a) Lohgarh

16. Princess of which state did Banda Singh Bahadur marry?
(a) Bilaspur
(b) Chamba
(c) Mandi
(d) Kulu.
Answer:
(b) Chamba

17. What was the name of Banda Singh Bahadur’s son?
(a) Ajai Singh
(b) Abay Singh
(c) Daya Singh
(d) Binod Singh.
Answer:
(a) Ajai Singh

18. When was the battle of Gurdas Nangal fought?
(a) 1709 A.D.
(b) 1710 A.D.
(c) 1712 A.D.
(d) 1715 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1715 A.D.

19. Where was Banda Singh Bahadur martyred?
(a) Delhi
(b) Lahore
(c) Multan
(d) Amritsar
Answer:
(a) Delhi

20. When was Banda Singh Bahadur martyred?
(a) 1714 A.D.
(b) 1715 A.D.
(c) 1716 A.D.
(d) 1718 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1716 A.D.

21. Which Mughal King ordered to martyr Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Aurangzeb
(b) Bahadur Shah
(c) Jahandar Shah
(d) Farrukh Siyar
Answer:
(d) Farrukh Siyar

22. What was the cause of initial (earlier) success of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Good leadership of Banda Singh Bahadur
(b) Hukamnamas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji
(c) Incompetent successors of Aurangzeb
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above

23. What was the cause of the ultimate failure of Banda Singh Bahadur?
(a) Strong (powerful) rule of the Mughals
(b) Sudden attack on Gurdas Nangal
(c) Differences between Banda Singh Bahadur and Baba Binod Singh
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 11 Banda Singh Bahadur

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