The Battle of Karnal, fought on February 24, 1739, marked a significant turning point in the decline of the Mughal Empire. It was a battle between Nadir Shah, the ruler of Afsharid Persia, and the Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah Rangila.
This battle marked a decisive moment in Indian history, symbolizing the irreversible decline of the Mughal Empire. Over the next century, the empire gradually lost power, eventually succumbing to British rule in 1857.
Key Highlights of the Battle
- Outcome: The Mughal army was decisively defeated in under three hours, and Emperor Muhammad Shah was taken captive by Nadir Shah.
- Aftermath: Nadir Shah sacked Delhi, looted the Peacock Throne and the Koh-i-Noor diamond, and massacred thousands in the Mughal capital.
- Impact: The battle accelerated the decline of the Mughal Empire, leaving it politically and financially crippled.
Causes of Mughal Decline
Historians have analyzed multiple reasons for the empire’s weakening grip before and after the Battle of Karnal:
Economic Strain & Peasant Revolts:
- Excessive taxation led to widespread peasant revolts.
- This, in turn, drained resources as the empire needed funds to suppress revolts, creating a vicious cycle of instability.
Overgrown Mughal Nobility & Corruption:
- One of the reasons for the decline was the inflated Mughal nobility, which led to corruption, infighting, and a decline in military efficiency.
Religious Policies & Internal Rebellions:
- Some historians argue that Aurangzeb’s policies alienated Hindus and other religious groups, leading to multiple internal uprisings.
- By Aurangzeb’s death, the empire was already weakened by Maratha, Sikh, Rajput, Bundela, and Jat uprisings.
Nadir Shah’s Invasion
- After conquering Kandahar (1738), Nadir Shah marched into India through the Khyber Pass.
- The Mughal response was delayed and ineffective, allowing Nadir Shah to capture Lahore and advance toward Delhi.
- The two armies met at Karnal, where Nadir Shah’s modern and disciplined troops overpowered the Mughal forces.
The Sack of Delhi & Its Aftermath
Looting & Massacre:
- Nearly 30,000 citizens were slaughtered, and Delhi’s treasures, including gold, silver, and gems, were plundered.
Symbolic End of Mughal Supremacy:
- Although Muhammad Shah was restored to his throne, the Mughal Empire never recovered from this blow.
- The Persian invasion exposed the empire’s vulnerabilities, paving the way for future Maratha dominance and British colonization.
Financial Ruin:
- Nadir Shah carried away the accumulated wealth of eight generations of Mughal rulers, leaving the empire financially crippled.