Biography of Bairam Khan
Bairam Khan (c. 1501 – 27 January 1561) was a prominent military commander, statesman, and regent during the early Mughal Empire in India. He played a significant role in shaping the destiny of the empire during its formative years. Here’s an overview of his life and contributions:
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| Biography of Bairam Khan |
Early Life of Bairam Khan:
Bairam Khan was born in Badakhshan, now in modern-day Afghanistan, around the year 1501. He belonged to the Turkoman tribe of Bayram. He was brought to India by Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, in the early 16th century.
Bairam Khan Service under Babur:
Bairam Khan started his military career under Babur, the first Mughal emperor, and proved his mettle as a skilled and loyal commander. He played a crucial role in Babur’s early victories in India, including the Battle of Panipat in 1526, where the Mughals established their supremacy over the Delhi Sultanate.
Bairam’s role during Humayun’s Reign:
After Babur’s death in 1530, Bairam Khan continued to serve under Babur’s son, Humayun. He played a vital role in protecting and consolidating the Mughal Empire during the troubled period when Humayun was in exile. He served as the regent and mentor to the young Akbar, Humayun’s son, after Humayun’s death in 1556.
Bairam Khan contributions to the Mughal Empire:
Bairam Khan’s contributions to the Mughal Empire were significant. He not only stabilized the empire during a tumultuous period but also expanded its territories through military campaigns. He was instrumental in implementing administrative reforms and ensuring law and order in the empire.
Bairam Khan fall from Power:
Despite his contributions, Bairam Khan’s power declined after Akbar came of age. There were tensions between him and Akbar, which eventually led to his dismissal from the court in 1560. Following his dismissal, he retired to Mecca.
Family introduction to Bairam Khan
The Bairam family belonged to the Turkan caste of Turan (Central Asia). The Nizam of Hyderabad too was a Turkman. According to historian Qasim Farishta, he was associated with the Baharu branch of Karakilu Turkan of Iran. Alishkar Beg Turkman was one of the famous chiefs of Timur, who was appointed ruler on Hamdan, Dinwar, Khusistan etc. Sheryli Beg in Alishkar’s children. After the Taimuri Shah Hussein Bikera, when the Sultanate was destroyed in Turan, Sheryli came to Kabul to conduct a fortune test. His son, Yarali and grandson Saifali came to Afghanistan. Babar appointed Yar-e-Ali to the governorship of Ghazni After a few days, on his death, son Saif Ali was given the status.
Military service by Bairam Khan
Bairam entered Babur’s service at the age of 16 and played an active role in India’s early Mughal victories. Bairam Khan later contributed greatly to the establishment of the Mughal Empire under Humayun when he was entrusted with the responsibility of the Muhadhar (the protector of the seals) and participated in military operations in Banas, Bengal and Gujarat. He helped Humayun to win Kandhara during his exile in Persia in Persia and for nine years before serving as his governor. In 1556, he played a major role in the role of commander of Humayun led by Hindustan.
After Humayun’s death in 1556, Bairam Khan was appointed Regent for young prince Akbar as a regent, he consolidated Mughal authority in northern India and most notably the Mughal army in the second battle of Panipat, Which was fought between Akbar and Hemu in November 1556.
Murder of Bairam Khan
Bairam Khan’s life met a tragic end. He was assassinated in 1561 in Patan, Gujarat, by an Afghan noble, an act of revenge stemming from a personal vendetta.
Bairam Khan’s legacy lies in his crucial role during the formative years of the Mughal Empire. His military acumen, administrative skills, and loyalty to the empire played a vital role in shaping the Mughal dynasty’s early years in India.