PANJGARHIA - KARORSINGHIA

ORIGINS & ESTABLISHMENT:

The Panjgarhia Misl was founded in the mid-18th century by Sardar Karora Singh Virk, emerging alongside the rise of the Sikh Confederacy. The exact origins of the name Panjgarhia are debated - some historians believe it was derived from the name of Karora Singh’s village, while others argue it referred to a regional identity. The misl is also sometimes referred to as the Karorsinghia or Singh Karora Misl in historical accounts. However, due to its smaller size it is often overlooked in historical retellings.

KEY FIGURES:

Sardar Karora Singh Virk, the founder of the Panjgarhia Misl, was known for his military leadership, particularly in organising effective defences against Ahmad Shah Abdali’s repeated invasions. Though the Panjgarhia Misl did not control vast territories, it gained a reputation for its adaptability and expertise in guerrilla warfare, essential during a period when Sikh forces operated in mobile units. During the time of Sardar Karora Singh, the misl had an army of approximately 8,000 horsemen.

After Karora Singh’s death during battle in 1761, historical accounts on the leadership transition are unclear. Some sources suggest that control passed to his son, while others argue that Baghel Singh Dhaliwal - a prominent general, assumed leadership. Under Baghel Singh’s command, the misl expanded significantly, growing to 30,000 soldiers.

Note: while the exact sequence of leadership remains uncertain, it is widely accepted that Sardar Karora Singh Virk was the founder, and Baghel Singh Dhaliwal emerged as the dominant leader following his death. There is limited evidence to confirm whether Karora Singh’s son(s) briefly held power before Baghel Singh’s rise.

BAGHEL SINGH AND THE CHALISA FAMINE:

One of the most prominent leaders associated with the misl was Baghel Singh Dhaliwal, an influential Sikh warrior known for his military campaigns in North India. His exact date of birth is undocumented but estimated to be in the 1730s. Baghel Singh was born in a village in Tarn Taran, located about 20 km from Amritsar.

In 1783, Baghel Singh led the Budha Dal - one of the two Sikh armies, composed of veteran warriors, into Delhi. During this time, the Chalisa Famine had ravaged Punjab and its neighbouring regions, worsening the hardships faced by the population. Baghel Singh and his forces leveraged their military strength to negotiate with Mughal authorities, securing tribute from Emperor Shah Alam II. This tribute not only solidified growing Punjabi-Sikh influence in Delhi but also helped provide resources to alleviate suffering in famine-stricken areas.

During his occupation of Delhi, Baghel Singh oversaw the construction of several Sikh shrines, ensuring a lasting presence in the city. His strategic negotiations with the Mughals granted Sikhs the right to maintain gurdwaras at key historical sites, cementing his legacy as a leader who balanced military leadership with diplomatic foresight.

GOVERNANCE & ADMINISTRATION:

Like other Sikh misls, the Panjgarhia Misl operated as an autonomous political and military entity, with its leader responsible for governance. Local chiefs managed revenue collection, maintained law and order, and raised armies for defence and military campaigns.

Although the Panjgarhia Misl did not hold as much political sway as larger misls, it actively participated in Sarbat Khalsa - the collective decision-making body of the Sikh nation, assemblies and cooperated with other misls on military matters. Revenue generated through land taxes was crucial for sustaining its military efforts, especially during conflicts with external forces like the Afghans and Mughals.

MILITARY STRUCTURE:

Despite its smaller size, the Panjgarhia Misl was known for its highly mobile and efficient fighting force. Its warriors excelled in guerrilla warfare, using hit-and-run tactics and the natural terrain to outmanoeuvre larger enemy forces. This approach proved effective during the Sikh resistance against the Mughals and Afghans.

A key difference to the other Misls is that the Karorsinghia frequently collaborated with other Sikh misls in joint operations to liberate key regions of Punjab. Its forces played a role in crucial campaigns alongside misls like the Bhangi, Ahluwalia, and Ramgarhia, contributing to the defence of Sikh territories. While it did not achieve extensive territorial expansion, its military contributions were vital during moments of crisis.

LEGACY:

As with other Sikh misls, the Panjgarhia Misl began to decline toward the late 18th century due to internal divisions and external pressures. The rise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his campaign to unify Punjab under a single ruler marked the end of independent misls.

The Panjgarhia Misl, like many others, was absorbed into the expanding Sikh Empire by the early 19th century. Some leaders from the misl were given administrative roles under Ranjit Singh’s rule, ensuring their continued influence within the new structure of power. However, as an independent entity, the Panjgarhia Misl ceased to exist, becoming part of the unified Sikh state.

A depiction of how the Panjgarhia Misl used Guerrilla tactics to succeed in battles where they were outnumbered by the opposing forces.
Note: Punjab is mostly made up of plains and farmland, but there are some areas with dense, forest-like foliage. The image shows Panjgarhia warriors hiding in this kind of terrain, getting ready to attack.

To The Panjgarhia Misl, whose profound understanding of Punjabi land changed history. With respect and honour - Trish Saab