Raja Baz Bahadur Chand

Accession to the Throne

King Baz Bahadur Chand ascended the throne in 1638 A.D. following the death of King Trimal Chand. During his reign, the Terai Bhavar region was highly prosperous, generating a revenue of approximately 9 lakh rupees. However, due to internal conflicts among the Chand rulers since the time of Laxmi Chand, governance over the Terai region weakened. The Hindu chiefs of Kather had taken control over Mal, a significant part of the Chand territory, prompting King Baz Bahadur Chand to seek assistance from the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan.

Alliance with Emperor Shahjahan

As the control over Mal was lost to the Hindu chiefs of Kather, King Baz Bahadur Chand sought to reclaim the territory by securing the support of the Mughal Empire. Understanding the necessity of a strong alliance, he approached Emperor Shahjahan with an elaborate offering of rare and valuable gifts, carefully chosen to impress the Mughal court. These included chauri cows, musk deer, musk whisk, zedoary (a medicinal grass), tassels from an elephant's neck, horses, finely crafted swords and scimitars, elephants, and utensils made of gold and silver. This gesture was not only a tribute but also a demonstration of Kumaun’s wealth and its willingness to align with Mughal interests.

Upon presenting these gifts, Baz Bahadur Chand formally conveyed his grievances regarding the increasing tyranny of the Kather chiefs and the loss of Mal, a strategically and economically significant region. Emperor Shahjahan, recognizing both the economic and military importance of the Terai region, advised Baz Bahadur Chand to join an ongoing Mughal military campaign. He promised that, upon a successful military expedition, the lost territories of Mal and Terai would be restored to him as a reward for his loyalty and service.

In 1654-55 A.D., Baz Bahadur Chand was dispatched to battle in Garhwal under the Mughal command. He displayed exceptional bravery and military prowess, leading his forces with strategic acumen and gaining recognition for his valor. His remarkable performance on the battlefield earned him the distinguished title of "Bahadur." Some historical sources suggest that in addition to this honor, he was also granted the esteemed title of "Maharajadhiraj" by the Mughal emperor, along with the privilege to beat royal drums—an honor traditionally reserved for rulers closely aligned with the Mughal court. This act further cemented his stature within the imperial hierarchy, strengthening his position as a powerful regional ruler with the Mughal Empire’s backing.

Reclaiming the Terai: The Strategic Triumph of King Baz Bahadur Chand King Baz Bahadur Chand (1638–1678 CE) of Kumaon was a formidable ruler of the Chand dynasty, renowned for his strategic acumen and diplomatic prowess. Among his notable achievements was the reclamation of the Terai region, a fertile and strategically significant area at the Himalayan foothills.

In 1655, Baz Bahadur Chand sought to consolidate his authority over the Terai, which had been under the influence of local chieftains and the Mughal Empire. To achieve this, he forged alliances with prominent Mughal officials, notably Nawab Rustam Khan of Moradabad and Nawab Khalilulla Khan. Their collaboration was instrumental in reasserting Kumaoni control over the region.

Nawab Rustam Khan, acting on behalf of the Mughal Emperor, issued imperial orders to the Kather chiefs, who had previously resisted Kumaoni dominance. By disbanding their forces and enforcing the emperor's directives, Rustam Khan effectively neutralized opposition, facilitating Baz Bahadur Chand's restoration of authority in the Terai. This strategic move is documented in the History of Kumaun, which states:

"Suhetlrlr Nrrwnh Rustam Khan who had peopled Moradabad helped king Baz Bahadur Chand and again the Tarai came under the authority of the Kumaun king." ANYFLIP.COM

To solidify his governance, Baz Bahadur Chand implemented administrative reforms by appointing officials, known as karindas, to oversee the region's affairs. He also founded the town of Bazpur, which endures as a testament to his legacy. The establishment of Bazpur not only served administrative purposes but also promoted economic development through enhanced trade and agriculture. The History of Kumaun further notes:

"King Baz Bahadur Chand appointed ktrririrlns (agents) in Tarai and also founded a town named Bazpur which still exists."

This successful reclamation and administration of the Terai underscored Baz Bahadur Chand's capabilities as a ruler who adeptly combined military strategy with diplomatic alliances. His efforts not only expanded the territorial reach of the Kumaon kingdom but also laid the groundwork for sustained prosperity in the region.

Conflict with Aurangzeb

When Aurangzeb ascended the Mughal throne after eliminating his brothers, Prince Sulaiman Shikoh, son of Dara Shikoh, sought refuge in Kumaun. Initially, Baz Bahadur Chand welcomed him but later, fearing repercussions from Aurangzeb, provided him with wealth and sent him to Garhwal. However, Aurangzeb's army soon arrived, threatening to seize the Terai region unless Sulaiman was surrendered. To prove his loyalty, Baz Bahadur Chand orchestrated a daring act where his guard stole the shawl, dagger, and turban from the sleeping chamber of the Mughal commander. He sent these items to Aurangzeb, demonstrating his ability to kill the commander but asserting his innocence. Eventually, Sulaiman was captured and executed, and the Mughal army withdrew.

Mughal Invasion and Pardon

In 1665 A.D., a Mughal army was dispatched to Kumaun, capturing the Terai region and establishing Mughal rule. However, controlling the mountainous region proved difficult, and in 1666 A.D., additional funds and resources were sent to assist the Mughal forces. The situation escalated due to false accusations by the King of Srinagar, who claimed that Baz Bahadur Chand hoarded immense wealth. The Kumauni king responded with a letter asserting his loyalty to the Mughals. In 1673 A.D., he was granted a royal pardon, and his son was sent to the imperial court.

Administration of Terai Bhavar

Following his reinstatement, Baz Bahadur Chand implemented strict governance in Terai Bhavar. He regularly toured the region and stationed officials in Bazpur and Rudrapur during winter, relocating them to Kota and Badakheda in summer. The land was extensively cultivated, and forts and palaces were constructed in Kota, which served as the capital of Terai Bhavar. The region's security was entrusted to both local and Muslim guards, including the Meo and Mewati Rajputs, who were granted fiefs and commissions.

Introduction of New Court Customs

Upon returning to Almora, Baz Bahadur Chand introduced various customs he had observed in Mughal courts. He established ceremonial drumhouses (nakkarchikhanas) and appointed staff, including mace-bearers, drummers, mirasis (bards), clowns, and mimics. A Brahmin confectioner was employed to prepare sweets for the royal palace. Prince Shakti Gusain arranged for certain individuals to receive financial support from village revenues.

Installation of Nanda Devi

During a military campaign, Baz Bahadur Chand conquered Badhangarh and Lohabagarh in Garhwal and captured the fort of Junagarh. He brought the idol of Nanda Devi and her attendants to Malla Mahal, where she was served by royal maidservants. Later, Mr. Trail relocated the idol to its present location.

Military Campaign in Tibet

A devout Hindu, Baz Bahadur Chand was disturbed by reports of Tibetan Lamas oppressing Hindu pilgrims. In 1670 A.D., he launched an expedition via Bhot and captured the fort of Takalkhal. He deprived the Tibetan authorities of their control over the Kailash pilgrimage route and halted the commissions paid by the Bhotiyas to the Tibetans. However, when the Tibetans agreed to refrain from religious and trade disputes, he allowed the commissions to resume. Revenue from nearby villages was allocated for the welfare of Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrims.

Rebellion of Prince Udyot Chand

While Baz Bahadur Chand was away, a faction in the kingdom incited his son, Prince Udyot Chand, to rebel. To diffuse the situation, the king assigned him administrative control over Gangoli, Sor, Sira, Askot, Darma, and Bhot, ensuring his responsibilities kept him occupied.

Administration and Governance

In Almora, governance was managed by officials from prominent families, including the Joshis, Chaudharis, Shahus, and Ratgaliyas. Key figures such as Narottam, Prayag Das, and Rishikesh held important administrative positions. Shahus, Chaudharis, and Ratgaliyas functioned as clerks and assistants, paying tributes to the diwans under the title of "Siku."

Eastern Expansion

After stabilizing the western and northern fronts, Baz Bahadur Chand turned his attention to the eastern region. He met the King of Doti and proceeded to Brahmadeo Mandi, where he encountered a rebellious ruler in Kalaghat. He captured the fort, executed the rebel king, and restored order. In 1674 A.D., he annexed Vyans and imposed taxes on gold-dust, musk, and salt.

Later Years and Legacy

Towards the end of his reign, Prince Udyot Chand expressed his desire to rule through symbolic gestures. In response, Baz Bahadur Chand reassured him but maintained control over the kingdom. He engaged in numerous charitable activities, constructed temples, and performed religious sacrifices. Key temples built during his reign included Pinath, Bhimeshwar (Bhimtal), Katarmal, Maharudra (Pali), Goddess Bhavani, and Badarinath (Karget). He also inlaid the Jageshwar temple with copper plates.

To replenish the treasury, he imposed a head tax known as "Mangar." He also honored his childhood caretaker, Narayan Tewari, acknowledging him as his elder brother and granting him a prestigious position at court.

Conclusion

King Baz Bahadur Chand was a formidable ruler who expanded and secured Kumaun’s territory through diplomacy and warfare. His legacy includes strategic military victories, administrative reforms, temple construction, and fostering economic growth. His efforts significantly shaped the history of the Chand dynasty in Kumaun.

References

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