Rana Sanga was one of the most valiant and celebrated warriors in Indian history. Born in 1484 CE, he was the son of Rana Rai Mal, the king of Mewar. His real name was Sangram Singh.
New Delhi: A statement by Samajwadi Party MP Ramji Lal Suman in the Rajya Sabha has sparked a new controversy surrounding Rana Sanga. The SP MP claimed that "Babur came to India at the invitation of Rana Sanga," igniting a fresh debate on historical accuracy. This statement has drawn criticism from numerous political and social organizations. Let's explore who Rana Sanga was, his contributions to Indian history, and his relationship with Babur.
Rana Sanga: The Valiant Warrior of Mewar
Rana Sanga, whose real name was Sangram Singh, was born in 1484 CE as the son of Rana Rai Mal, the ruler of Mewar. He reigned over Mewar from 1509 to 1527, earning widespread fame across India for his valor, military prowess, and strategic acumen. Rana Sanga's life was marked by several significant battles. He led successful campaigns against rulers from Delhi, Gujarat, Malwa, and Afghanistan. His reign witnessed the Rajput power at its zenith, solidifying their hold over North India.
Babur and Rana Sanga: The Battle of Khanwa
Rana Sanga's most famous battle was against the Mughal emperor Babur.
1. First Encounter (1527): The first clash between Rana Sanga's and Babur's armies occurred at Bayana, where Babur suffered heavy losses. This victory boosted Rajput confidence.
2. The Battle of Khanwa (March 16, 1527): This was followed by a decisive battle on the plains of Khanwa in Rajasthan. Rana Sanga's army put up a fierce fight against Babur, but Babur's cannons and gunpowder weaponry turned the tide of the battle.
Rana Sanga sustained over eighty wounds, losing an arm and an eye, yet remained steadfast in battle. Babur emerged victorious, strengthening his hold on Delhi. Despite his defeat, Rana Sanga's valor remains immortalized in history.
Rana Sanga's Death and Legacy
Even after the defeat at Khanwa, Rana Sanga did not give up and began reorganizing his army. However, he died suddenly in 1528. It is said that some of his chieftains poisoned him, as they did not want him to engage in further warfare. Rana Sanga's bravery and leadership established him as a great warrior in Indian history. He was not only a strategic ruler but also a symbol of Rajput pride and honor.
The Controversy Surrounding the SP MP's Statement
On March 21, Samajwadi Party MP Ramji Lal Suman stated in the Rajya Sabha that "Babur came to India at the invitation of Rana Sanga." This statement caused a stir in political circles. The BJP and several Rajput organizations criticized the statement, calling it a misrepresentation of history. They contend that Babur invaded India and Rana Sanga fought against him, not invited him.
Following the backlash, Ramji Lal Suman clarified that his intention was not to hurt anyone's sentiments but to present historical facts.
What Does History Say?
According to historians, Babur conquered Delhi after defeating Ibrahim Lodi in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526. Rana Sanga formed a Rajput confederacy to resist Babur and fought him at Khanwa. Numerous historical texts and the Baburnama do not mention Rana Sanga inviting Babur to India. Instead, Babur himself wrote that he invaded India due to his own ambitions.
