Under whose leadership did the Khalsa revolt against the Mughal rule after the death of Guru Gobind Singh?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2 (and 3): Banda Bahadur.
Explanation:
- Following the death of the tenth and final Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, in 1708, the leadership of the 'Khalsa'—the military organization of the Sikhs—was assumed by Banda Bahadur.
- Cause of the Rebellion: Banda Bahadur united the Sikhs against the atrocities of the Mughal regime and strove to establish an independent Sikh state in Punjab.
- Major Achievements: He established 'Lohgarh' as his capital and issued coins bearing the names of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev, and Guru Gobind Singh. He abolished the *Zamindari* (landlord) system and granted land rights to the farmers.
- Battle of Chappar Chiri (1710): In this battle, Banda Bahadur defeated and killed Wazir Khan, the *Subedar* (Governor) of Sirhind, who was responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh's *Sahibzadas* (sons).
- Martyrdom: Ultimately, in 1716—during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar—he was captured and brutally martyred in Delhi.
Important Facts Related to Sikh Gurus and History (Quick Revision):
- Guru Nanak Dev: The founder of Sikhism and the first Guru.
- Guru Arjan Dev (5th Guru): Compiled the 'Adi Granth' and was martyred during the reign of Jahangir.
- Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru): Founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699.
- Ranjit Singh: Following the era of Banda Bahadur and the Sikh *Misls* (confederacies), he elevated the 'Sikh Empire' to new heights.
Important Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: What was the real name of Banda Bahadur?
Answer: Lachhman Dev (later known as Madhav Das Bairagi).
Question: In which year was the Khalsa Panth founded?
Answer: In 1699 (on the day of Vaisakhi). Question: Who introduced the concept of the 'Panj Pyare'?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh.