Jaichand of Kannauj

For centuries, the name of King Jaichand of Kannauj has been synonymous with treachery in Indian history. However, recent efforts by historians, community leaders, and history enthusiasts are challenging this long-held belief, aiming to present a more accurate portrayal of the 12th-century Rajput ruler.

This article delves deep into the life of Jaichand, his reign, and the controversy surrounding his alleged betrayal, drawing from various historical sources and contemporary research.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Jaichand, also known as Jaychandra or Jayachandra, was born into the prestigious Gahadavala dynasty, a prominent Rajput clan that ruled significant parts of northern India. Here are some key facts about his early life and rise to power:

• Father: Vijayachandra
• Grandfather: Govindachandra
• Dynasty: Gahadavala (also spelled Gaharwar)
• Coronation Date: 21 June 1170 CE
• Royal Titles:
• Ashvapati Narapati Gajapati Rajatrayadhipati (Lord of horses, men, and elephants, sovereign of three royal lines)
• Vaidya-Vidya-Vichara-Vachaspati (Lord of medicine, knowledge, contemplation, and eloquence)

According to a Kamauli inscription, Jaichand was crowned on 21 June 1170 CE. He inherited his royal titles from his grandfather Govindchandra, emphasizing the continuity and prestige of the Gahadavala lineage.

Reign and Territorial Extent

Jaichand’s rule was marked by significant territorial control and cultural patronage. His kingdom encompassed:

• Kanyakubja (modern-day Kannauj)
• Varanasi (Benares)
• Antarvedi (the Gangetic doab region)
• Parts of modern-day Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

Contemporary Muslim sources described Jaichand as “one of the greatest kings of India” and noted that he ruled over “the largest territory in India.” This testament to his power and influence underscores the importance of the Gahadavala kingdom in 12th-century India.

Military Prowess and Army Strength

Jaichand’s military might was legendary, even by the standards of his time. According to Ali ibn al-Athir, a contemporary Muslim historian:

• Jaichand commanded an army of one million soldiers
• His forces included 700 war elephants
• When his army moved, it appeared as if an entire city was on the march

These figures, while possibly exaggerated, indicate the formidable military strength at Jaichand’s disposal and the awe his forces inspired in both allies and enemies.

Cultural Patronage and Literary Contributions

Jaichand was not just a military leader but also a patron of arts and literature. His court was known for its cultural richness:

• Support for Sanskrit Literature: Jaichand patronized renowned poets and scholars
• Shri Harsha’s Patronage: The famous Sanskrit poet Shri Harsha flourished in Jaichand’s court
• Naishadhiya Charita: This Sanskrit mahakavya, considered one of the five great epic poems of Sanskrit literature, was composed under Jaichand’s patronage

The Ghori Invasion and Jaichand’s Last Battle

The invasion of Muhammad Ghori in 1193 CE marked a turning point in Jaichand’s reign and the history of northern India:

1. Initial Conflict: Ghori’s forces, led by Qutb ud-Din Aibak, attacked Jaichand’s territory in 1193 CE
2. Border Skirmishes: The first encounters resulted in defeat for Jaichand’s border guards, described by Hasan Nizami as “the army of the enemies of the religion (Islam)”
3. Major Confrontation: In 1194 CE, Jaichand led a large army against Aibak’s forces
4. Battle of Chandawar: The final battle took place at Chandawar in the Etawah district
5. Jaichand’s Last Stand: According to the 16th-century historian Firishta, Jaichand was killed by an arrow while riding an elephant
6. Aftermath: Ghori’s forces captured 300 elephants and looted the Gahadavala treasury at Asni fort

Following the battle, Ghori’s armies advanced to Varanasi, where, according to Hasan Nizami, “nearly one thousand temples were destroyed and mosques were raised on their foundations.”

Challenging the Traitor Narrative

Recent scholarship and community efforts aim to clear Jaichand’s name from the charge of betrayal. Here are the key arguments:

1. Lack of Contemporary Evidence:

• No contemporary Persian or Indian sources mention Jaichand inviting Ghori
• The betrayal story appears in Ain-i-Akbari, written 400 years after the events

1. Geographical Inconsistencies:

• Jaichand’s territory in eastern India did not share borders with Ghori’s empire
• Prithviraj Chauhan’s territories in Punjab were closer to Ghori’s, making direct conflict more likely

1. Historical Precedent of Resistance:

• Jaichand’s ancestors had a history of fighting invaders
• His grandfather, Govindchandra Gahadavala, had defeated Ghaznavid forces and imposed taxes on them for attacking India

1. Absence in Key Texts:

• No mention of betrayal in Prithviraj Raso, Prithviraj Vijaya, Hammira Mahakavya, or Prabandha Chintamani
• Even Prithviraj Raso, in its earliest and shortest version, only mentions rivalry between Jaichand and Prithviraj, not betrayal

1. Death in Battle:

• Jaichand died fighting against Ghori and Aibak in the Battle of Chandawar in 1194
• This contradicts the narrative of him being an ally to the invaders

The Prithviraj-Sanyogita Episode

The story of Prithviraj Chauhan eloping with Jaichand’s daughter Sanyogita is often cited as the reason for their rivalry. However, historians now question the authenticity of this tale:

• Lack of Contemporary Evidence: No reliable historical sources from the period mention this event
• Literary Embellishment: The story may have been a later addition to romanticize the period
• Disputed Authorship: It’s disputed whether Chand Bardai, the supposed author of Prithviraj Raso, was actually contemporary to Prithviraj
• Political Realities: The rivalry between the two rulers likely stemmed from complex political factors rather than a personal slight

Community Efforts to Rectify History

The people of Kannauj and Rajput community leaders are actively working to clear Jaichand’s name:

• Kanyakubja Committee:
• Offers a reward of 5 lakh rupees to anyone who can prove Jaichand was a traitor
• Challenges the long-held belief in Jaichand’s betrayal
• Annual Event:
• Held on Shivratri near Jaichand’s statue at his fort ruins in Kannauj
• Brings together scholars, political figures, and history enthusiasts
• Petition to Government:
• Scholars have appealed to the Indian government to re-evaluate Jaichand’s historical portrayal
• Calls for a more nuanced and evidence-based approach to historical figures
• Public Awareness:
• Community leaders are spreading awareness about the lack of historical evidence for Jaichand’s betrayal
• Emphasizing the need for critical examination of popular historical narratives

Jaichand’s Legacy and Historical Reassessment

Despite the controversy, Jaichand’s reign was marked by several notable achievements:

• Military Strength: Commanded one of the largest armies in 12th-century India
• Administrative Skills: Effectively ruled a vast territory in northern India
• Patron of Arts: Supported renowned poets like Shri Harsha, contributing to Sanskrit literature
• Resistance to Invaders: Fought against Ghori’s forces until his last breath
• Cultural Preservation: His son, Harischandra Gahadavala, reportedly recaptured Varanasi and rebuilt the temples destroyed by Muslim forces

The reassessment of Jaichand’s role in history highlights several important points:

1. Critical Examination of Sources: The need to scrutinize historical narratives, especially those written centuries after the events
2. Impact of Colonial Historiography: How colonial-era interpretations may have influenced the portrayal of pre-colonial Indian rulers
3. Regional vs. National Narratives: The importance of considering regional histories in the broader context of national narratives
4. Evolving Historical Methods: The ongoing process of historical reassessment as new evidence and interpretations emerge

The story of Jaichand of Kannauj serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in Indian history. As new research emerges and communities challenge long-held beliefs, it becomes crucial to approach historical figures with nuance and critical thinking. The efforts to clear Jaichand’s name highlight the ongoing process of historical reassessment in India, encouraging a more balanced and evidence-based view of the past.

This reexamination of Jaichand’s legacy is not just about clearing one ruler’s name; it’s about understanding the intricate tapestry of Indian history, free from simplistic labels of heroes and traitors. It challenges us to look beyond popular narratives and seek a deeper, more nuanced understanding of our shared past.

As we continue to unravel the complexities of Indian history, the case of Jaichand of Kannauj stands as a testament to the importance of questioning established narratives, seeking primary sources, and being open to new interpretations. It reminds us that history is not a fixed set of facts, but a living, evolving discipline that requires constant scrutiny and reassessment.