Rise to Power: In his early years, Ahmad Shah served as a cavalryman in the Persian army under Nader Shah Afshar. His valor and leadership skills caught the eye of Nader Shah, who appointed him as a commander. After Nader Shah’s assassination in 1747, Ahmad Shah seized the opportunity to gather the Afghan tribes and declared himself king, founding the Durrani Empire.
Establishment of the Durrani Empire: Ahmad Shah Abdali was crowned in Kandahar in 1747, marking the beginning of the Durrani Empire. His reign saw the unification of various Afghan tribes under his leadership. He expanded his empire through a series of successful military campaigns, capturing territories that included present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, eastern Iran, and northern India.
Military Campaigns and Achievements:
- 1748: Ahmad Shah launched his first campaign into India, capturing Lahore.
- 1757: He defeated the Mughal Empire and established control over Delhi.
- 1761: Ahmad Shah achieved a decisive victory in the Third Battle of Panipat, solidifying his power in northern India.
Hardships and Challenges: Despite his military successes, Ahmad Shah faced numerous challenges. The vast territories he controlled were difficult to manage, and he encountered resistance from local rulers and rival factions. Additionally, internal strife and succession issues within his own ranks posed significant threats to his rule.
Later Years and Legacy: In his later years, Ahmad Shah Abdali focused on consolidating his empire and implementing administrative reforms. He continued to face rebellions and external threats but managed to maintain the integrity of his empire until his death in 1772. His legacy is profound, as he is credited with laying the foundation for the modern state of Afghanistan and is revered as a national hero.
Real Name: Ahmad Khan Abdali
Date of Birth: Circa 1722
Birth Place: Herat, present-day Afghanistan
Residence: Kandahar, Kabul, and various parts of his empire
Profession: Military leader, Founder and King of the Durrani Empire
Nationality: Afghan
Religion: Islam (Sunni Muslim)
Partner: Ahmad Shah had multiple wives as per the customs of the time, but details about his partners are limited.
Father: Muhammad Zaman Khan Abdali
Mother: Zarghuna Alakozai
Horoscope: Specific horoscope details are not documented due to the period in which he lived.
Age: Ahmad Shah Abdali passed away on October 16, 1772, at around 50 years old.