Prithviraj Chauhan (Prithviraj III): Political Geography of North India in the Early 12th Century

Prithviraj Chauhan, also known as Rai Pithora was Rajput king from the Chauhan dynasty, who ruled the kingdoms of Ajmer and Delhi. Born around 1166 CE, he is famous for his valor and heroism. Prithviraj is best known for his heroic battles against the Ghurid invader Muhammad Ghori, particularly the First and Second Battles of Tarain. His birthday is celebrated as Prithvi Raj Chauhan Jayanti all over India. Several movies and TV serials have been created to show his valor and his heroic life to common people.

Portrait of Prithvi Raj Chauhan

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Prithviraj Chauhan (Prithviraj III): Biography

Prithviraja III was the Rajput champion lord of the Chauhan (Chahamana) faction of rulers who laid out the most grounded realm in Rajasthan.

• Early Life: Born on 16 May 1168, Prithviraj III was the child of the famous ruler Someshwar Chauhan, the lord of Ajmer. His mother, Karpuradevi, a Kalachuri (Chedi) princess, was a similarly huge impact on his initial life. His birthday is celebrated as Prithvi Raj Jyanti.

People Celebrating PrithviRaj Chauhan Jyanti

• Battle of Sthaneshwar:
• • Rising to the lofty position around 1180, the youthful Prithviraja acquired a realm that extended from Shanishvara (Thanesar) in the north to Mewar in the south. 
  • Prithviraja had personally taken control of the administration within a few years, but shortly after he did so, he was confronted with a rebellion from Nagarjuna, his cousin, who made his own claim to the throne. 
  • The revolt was fiercely squashed, and Prithviraja directed his concentration toward the close-by realm of the Bhadanakas. 
• The Bhadanakas: The Bhadanakas had been a relentless danger to the Chauhan-held locale around Delhi, however they were  completely obliterated at some point around 1192.

Prithviraj Chauhan (Prithviraj III) and Epic Prithiviraj Raso

Prithviraj Raso, composed by the  court poet of Prithvi Raj, his name was Chand Bardai he covered Prithviraj’s life and his war tales. This epic not only narrates the key events of his reign but also mentions his heroism and romanticizes his legacy. “Prithviraj Raso” is a specific work in Indian literature, contributing significantly to the folklore and cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Through its verses, Prithviraj Chauhan is portrayed as an ideal warrior-king, whose story continues to inspire and evoke admiration for his unwavering dedication to his kingdom and people. Prithvi Raj Raso also mentioned the story of his marriage. 

Prithviraj Chauhan (Prithviraj III): His Wars and Expeditions

Prithviraj Chauhan Fight with Gahadavalas

The struggles between Prithviraj Chauhan and the Gahadavalas of Kannauj were driven by the last option’s desire to broaden their domain. As an essential reaction, Chauhan shaped a partnership through marriage with the Gahadavala princess, demonstrating again his skill in statecraft. His agreeable mix of bravery and discretion kept on safeguarding his kin and his realm.

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Prithviraj Chauhan Fight With Mohammad Ghori

• First Battle of Tarain (1191):
  • In 1191, Prithviraj Chauhan encountered the Ghurid ruler, Muhammad Ghori, denoting a defining moment in Indian history. 
  • The main battle of Tarain was a savage experience, and Chauhan’s bold armed force, driven by their courageous ruler, had the option to repulse the Ghurid powers, reaffirming Chauhan’s ability as a champion lord.
• Second Battle of Tarain (1192):After a year, in 1192 , Ghori returned, more ready and more cautious. 
  • Ghori used guerilla tactics in the second Battle of Tarain, which was a different story.
  • In spite of a brave protection, He was defeated badly, denoting a change in power elements in Northern India.

Also Read: THE PALLAVAS ( 275CE-897CE )

Effect of the Battle of Tarain

The outcomes of the Clashes of Tarain, especially the subsequent one, were significant, reaching out past the quick misfortune for Prithviraj Chauhan.

• Socio-Political Effect: 
  • The loss of Prithviraj III at the second battle of Tarain in 1192 denoted the start of Muslim rule in Delhi, preparing for progressive Sultanates and the Mughal Realm in India.
  • It fundamentally modified the socio-political scene of Northern India, achieving a change in outlook in administration, engineering, culture, and cultural standards.
• Strategic Impact:  
  • The second Battle of Tarain was significant in that it brought to light the transition from conventional warfare strategies to strategies that are more strategic and cunning. In terms of military strategy at the time, Ghori’s use of deception and guerilla tactics marked a turning point.
• Influence on Indian Obstruction: 
  • Regardless of the loss, the fights battled by Prithviraj Chauhan against the attacking powers made a permanent imprint on the Indian awareness. They blended a feeling of opposition contrary to foreign rule and prepared Indians for more wars.

MCQs

Q) What was the name of Prithviraj Chauhan’s wife?

1. Sanyogita
2. Chandravati
3. Padmini
4. Padmavati

Q) Who was Prithviraj Chauhan’s father-in-law?

1. Raja Jaichand
2. Raja Bhoja
3. Raja Harsha
4. Raja Hemu

Q) When is Prithviraj Chauhan Jayanti celebrated?

1. 15th August
2. 16th May
3. 2nd October
4. 26th January

Q) What is Prithviraj Raso?

1. A biography of Prithviraj Chauhan
2. An epic poem narrating the life of Prithviraj Chauhan
3. A historical novel on Prithviraj Chauhan
4. A collection of Prithviraj Chauhan’s speeches

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Q) Which dynasty did Prithviraj Chauhan belong to?

1. Chalukya dynasty
2. Chola dynasty
3. Chauhan dynasty
4. Gupta dynasty