Humayun was born on March 6, 1508, in Kabul, Afghanistan. He was the eldest son of Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire. Humayun had three brothers – Kamran, Askari, and Hindal. His early life was marked by privilege and education, but he faced challenges due to family dynamics. Humayun’s decision to divide the empire among his brothers proved to be mistake.
Ascension to the Throne
Humayun ascended the throne in 1530 after his father’s death. His reign began with promise. He achieved victories against regional powers, including the Afghan leader Bahadur Shah. However, his leadership style lacked decisiveness, which led to vulnerabilities in his rule.
Early Challenges
Humayun faced numerous challenges during his reign. Financial instability was a constant issue. He struggled against the ambitious Bahadur Shah of Gujarat and the rising power of Sher Shah Suri. His brother Kamran controlled key territories, including Kabul and Punjab, complicating governance.
Military Campaigns
Humayun engaged in several military campaigns to secure his empire. Notable battles include:
- Battle of Dauhra (1532): Humayun defeated the Afghans, asserting Mughal authority.
- Battle of Chausa (1539): This battle marked a devastating defeat for Humayun against Sher Shah Suri.
- Battle of Kanauj (1540): Another defeat that led to Humayun’s exile.
- Battle of Sirhind (1555): Humayun’s victory allowed him to reclaim Delhi and Agra.
Exile and Return
After the Battle of Kanauj, Humayun fled India and lived in exile for 15 years. He sought refuge in Sindh and later in Persia. Shah Tahmasp of Persia provided military support, enabling Humayun to regain territories. He captured Kandahar in 1545 and Kabul by 1550.
Re-establishment of Power
Humayun took advantage of conflicts among Sher Shah’s successors. In 1555, he captured Lahore and defeated Sikandar Suri at the Battle of Sirhind. This victory marked the re-establishment of Mughal control over Delhi and Agra, ending his long exile.
Personal Life
Humayun was known for his kindness and generosity. He was also a patron of the arts, with interests in mathematics, astronomy, and poetry. During his exile, he married Hamida Banu Begum, and they had a son, Akbar, who would later become a prominent ruler.
Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb, located in Delhi, was commissioned by his wife, Bega Begum, in 1569-70. It is the first garden-tomb in Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tomb features a large octagonal chamber and a stunning double dome, symbolising the grandeur of Mughal architecture.
Legacy
Humayun’s reign was a mix of triumphs and failures. Despite his challenges, he laid the groundwork for the Mughal Empire’s future success under his son Akbar. His cultural contributions, especially in art and architecture, influenced later generations.
Notable Battles and Events
Humayun’s reign included military engagements:
- Battle of Hissar Firoza (1526): Humayun’s first victory against an Afghan opponent.
- First Battle of Panipat (1526): Supported his father Babur in a decisive victory.
- Siege of Agra (1526): Successfully laid siege to the city.
- Battle of Khanwah (1527): Reinforced Babur’s army against the Rajputs.
- Siege of Kalinjar (1531): A siege that increased Humayun’s prestige.
Cultural Influence
Humayun’s return from Persia introduced Persian culture to the Mughal court. This period saw a blend of Central Asian and Persian influences in art, literature, and architecture. Persian became the court language, and many manuscripts from this era still exist.
Death
Humayun’s reign ended abruptly when he died in January 1556 after falling down the stairs of his library. His death came just months after reclaiming his throne, leaving behind a mixed legacy of achievement and struggle.
