Kalinjar Fort has been the site of several significant military confrontations throughout its history.
Here is a list of notable wars and sieges associated with Kalinjar Fort:
- Belligerents: Ghurid Empire vs. Chandelas
- Outcome: The Ghurid forces, led by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and Iltutmish, successfully captured the fort after a prolonged siege, marking a significant victory over the Chandela dynasty[2].
- Belligerents: Mughal Empire (Humayun) vs. Chandelas
- Outcome: Humayun laid siege to the fort but ultimately opted for a diplomatic resolution, securing an indemnity from the Chandela king rather than pursuing a complete conquest[1].
- Belligerents: Sher Shah Suri vs. Chandelas
- Outcome: This battle was pivotal as Sher Shah laid siege to the fort, which was defended by Raja Karan Singh. Sher Shah was mortally wounded during the siege, leading to chaos in his forces. Despite his injury, the fort was captured shortly after his death, resulting in the fall of the Chandela dynasty and altering the power dynamics in northern India[1][4].
- Belligerents: British East India Company vs. Local Rulers
- Outcome: The fort was initially repulsed by a British force but surrendered the following day due to concerns over further assaults. The British subsequently used it as a garrison and prison[4][5].
These events highlight Kalinjar Fort's strategic importance and its role in shaping regional power dynamics throughout Indian history.
Citations:
[1] https://www.kalinjarfort.com/history/the-battle-of-kalinjar-1545
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Kalinjar
[4] https://indianculture.gov.in/forts-of-india/discovering-the-forts-of-india/timeless-fort-kalinjar
[5] https://www.kalinjarfort.com/history/kalinjar-fort-history-sir-alexander-cunningham
[6] https://www.jstor.org/stable/44158195