Humayun (1555-1556)

Nasiruddin Mohammad Humayun, the second emperor of the Mughal Empire from 1530 to 1540 and then from 1555 to 1556, inherited the throne from his father, Babur. 

• His reign was marked by formidable challenges, notably the formidable Sher Shah Suri, who founded the Sur Empire in North India. 
• The year 1540 witnessed a pivotal moment when Humayun suffered defeat at the hands of Sher Shah Suri. Despite facing adversity, Humayun’s rule left an indelible mark on the history of the Indian subcontinent.

Who was Humayun?

• Humayun, a prominent historical figure of the 16th century, served as a Mughal emperor in India and was the eldest son of Babur, the empire’s founder. 
• His reign was marked by formidable challenges, including conflicts with regional rulers and invasions by neighboring empires. 
• Humayun’s reign is also notable for his keen interest in art, literature, and architecture, as well as his pivotal role in fostering Persian culture in India.

Humayun as the Second Mughal Ruler

• Humayun, full name Mirza Nasir ud-din Baig Muhammad Khan Humayun, was a prominent member of the Mughal dynasty who ruled over Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northeastern India during two periods, from 1530 to 1540 and 1555 to 1556.
• Humayun succeeded his father, Babur, as the king of India in 1530. His half-brother Kamran Mirza received Kabul and Lahore. Facing immediate challenges, he confronted Sultan Bahadur of the East and Sher Shah Suri.
• Within six months, Humayun achieved significant victories, including the siege of Kalinjar and triumph over Afghan forces at Dahua. 
• He also defeated Sultan Mahmud Lodhi and Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. 
• However, his success was short-lived, partly attributed to perceived weaknesses in his character.
• Humayun captured Gujarat from Bahadur Shah, appointing Askari as the governor. 
• This move showcased his expanding influence and territorial control.
• In 1555, a year before his death, Humayun sought refuge with Persia’s Safavid monarch, securing assistance to reclaim Delhi. 
• This marked a crucial period in his reign.
• Hamida Begum, Humayun’s Persian wife, oversaw the construction of her husband’s mausoleum in Delhi from 1562 to 1572. 
• This architectural marvel stands as a testament to their enduring legacy.
• Mirak Mirza Ghiyuath, a Persian architect, left his mark on various projects in Herat and Bukhara, showcasing his influence across regions, including northwest Afghanistan and present-day Uzbekistan.
• Adjacent to the Yamuna river bank, the mausoleum also shares space with the shrine of Nizam al-Din Awliya, a revered Sufi saint from the Chistiyya order, adding a spiritual dimension to the historical site.

Battles Fought by Humayun

• Battle of Chausa (1539): In a pivotal clash against Sher Shah Suri, founder of the Sur Empire, Humayun suffered a significant setback. Sher Shah Suri’s triumph forced Humayun into exile, marking a challenging period for the Mughal ruler.
• Battle of Kannauj (1540): Humayun confronted Sher Shah Suri once more at Kannauj following his defeat at Chausa. Unfortunately, Humayun faced another defeat, consolidating Sher Shah Suri’s dominance over North India.
• Battle of Bilgram (1540): Seeking to reclaim his empire, Humayun engaged Sher Shah Suri in another confrontation at Bilgram. Despite his efforts, Humayun was unable to secure victory and retreated to Sindh.
• Battle of Sirhind (1555): After years in exile and with the support of the Safavid dynasty in Persia, Humayun returned to India to reclaim his throne. At the Battle of Sirhind, he faced Sikandar Shah Suri, Sher Shah Suri’s son, and emerged victorious. This triumph marked Humayun’s restoration to the Mughal throne, setting the stage for the empire’s subsequent expansion under his son, Akbar the Great.
• These battles underscore the formidable challenges Humayun faced, particularly against the Sur Empire, and illuminate his resilience in ultimately reclaiming the Mughal throne.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb, nestled in Delhi, India, stands as a splendid mausoleum, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Mughal architecture. This majestic structure serves as the eternal resting place of Emperor Humayun, the second ruler of the Mughal dynasty. 

Honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historical gem and its surrounding complex captivate visitors with their rich cultural and architectural significance. Explore the enchanting legacy of Humayun’s Tomb, a cherished landmark that seamlessly weaves history and artistry.

• Humayun’s Tomb, a testament to Mughal architectural brilliance, was commissioned by Empress Bega Begum, also known as Haji Begum, following the death of Emperor Humayun in 1556. 
• Construction began in 1565 and concluded in 1572, showcasing a dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail. 
• Empress Bega Begum entrusted the design to the esteemed Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, resulting in a fusion of Persian, Central Asian, Timurid, and Mughal styles.
• The tomb’s architectural elegance foreshadowed the grandeur seen in later Mughal marvels, including the iconic Taj Mahal. 
• The tomb complex is surrounded by a vast garden, divided into four squares, symbolizing the paradisiacal gardens described in the Quran. 
• The heart of the complex is the symmetrical mausoleum, constructed predominantly with red sandstone and adorned with intricate white marble details.
• Within the main tomb chamber lies the cenotaph of Emperor Humayun, while the actual burial chamber rests beneath it. 
• The tomb boasts a remarkable double dome, towering arches, elegant chhatris (pavilions), and exquisite decorative elements, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the Mughal era. 
• The walls and façade are adorned with geometric patterns, calligraphy, and ornamental designs, showcasing the finesse of Mughal artisans in marble and tile work.