Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-Noor
“N.B. Sen’s book, ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-Noor,’ stands as a testament to the captivating saga of Sikh bravery and the fabled Koh-i-Noor diamond. With profound dedication, Sen delves into the rich history of the Sikh community, their pivotal role in discovering the Koh-i-Noor, and the subsequent loss of this magnificent gem. Spanning 140 pages, this enlightening literary work pays homage to the brave Sikh warriors while unraveling the mesmerizing tale of the world’s most renowned diamond.”
| Book | Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-Noor |
|---|---|
| Author | N.B. Sen |
| Pages | 140 |
| Size | 3.4 Mb |
| Genre | Sikh History |
Unveiling the Legacy of Sikh Kings
Sen’s book embarks on a compelling journey, commencing with an exploration of the diamond mines of India. It uncovers the earliest accounts of the Koh-i-Noor’s existence, dating back over five thousand years, before the era of the epic Mahabharata. The author meticulously traces the diamond’s passage through the hands of Hindu kings, its pivotal role in shaping the destinies of monarchs, and its subsequent acquisition by the mighty Mughals.
The Turbulent Times and Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Triumph:
Within the pages of this book, readers are transported to an era of upheaval, as Nadir Shah, the Persian invader, cunningly acquired the Koh-i-Noor diamond from the King of Delhi through the infamous ‘Turban Trick.’ The author weaves a tale of intrigue and fascination, portraying Shah’s wonder and admiration for the gem’s brilliance, leading to the diamond being bestowed with the name ‘Koh-i-Noor’ or ‘Mountain of Light.’ The narrative then delves into the rise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Sikh ruler of the Punjab, who managed to secure the diamond during his stay in Lahore, triggering exuberant celebrations and the birth of folklore in Northern India.
The Ordeal of the Sikh Prince and the British Acquisition:
As the book progresses, it explores the poignant moments when Prince Daleep Singh, the heir to the Sikh empire, was forced to part with the Koh-i-Noor diamond. Despite its immense historical and cultural significance to the Sikh community, the diamond was ultimately surrendered to the British under the Treaty of Lahore in 1849. The author narrates these events, capturing the emotions, struggles, and subsequent impact on both the Sikh and Indian communities.
A Call for Restoration and Reflection:
In the later chapters, Sen skillfully weaves together the persistent calls from the people of India for the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond. These demands for repatriation were met with mixed responses in the past, given the historical context of India’s independence and the complexities of post-colonial relations. However, the author emphasizes the evolving dynamics between India and the UK, the resurgent Indian nation, and the thriving Indian community in Britain, creating an opportune moment to reevaluate the future of the Koh-i-Noor.
A Quest for Mutual Understanding:
Sen’s book concludes by inviting readers to contemplate a fresh perspective on Koh-i-Noor’s restoration. It highlights the shared values of love, care, and respect, urging both the British people and their government to make a voluntary gesture of goodwill toward India. By returning the Koh-i-Noor diamond, the British can forge an enduring bond of friendship and foster a new chapter in international relations, built on mutual appreciation and the Gandhian principle of self-evolved morality.
Index
I. Diamond Mines of India
II. Legendary Origin of the Koh-i-Noor
III. In the Hands of the Hindu Kings
IV. With the Muslim Rulers
V. Koh-i-Noor Leaves India
VI. Back in the Hands of the Moghuls
VII. Nadir Shah Grabs Koh-i-Noor
VIII. Koh-i-Noor Brings Misery to Nadir Shah’s Dynasty
IX. Koh-i-Noor Makes History in Afghanistan
X. Back to India Once Again
XI. Ranjit Singh Gets it at Last
XII. Koh-i-Noor, Shah Shuja and Wafa Begum
XIII. Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-Noor
XIV. After Ranjit Singh-The Deluge
XV. How it came into the Hands of the British
XVI. Sir John Lawrence and Koh-i-Noor
XVII. Daleep Singh ‘Presents’ Koh-i-Noor to Queen Victoria
Disclaimer: The book “Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-Noor” is shared on this platform with the sole purpose of spreading awareness among the Sikh Panth about their heroes and their rich history. The intention is to promote knowledge and appreciation for Sikh history and the significance of the Koh-i-Noor diamond. The book is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Respect the intellectual property rights and contribute to the preservation of Sikh heritage.
‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-Noor’ by N.B. Sen is an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of the heroic Sikh community, their encounter with the illustrious Koh-i-Noor diamond, and the subsequent quest. Download from the Download Link given below:
