Ranjit Singh (1782-1839)

Ranjit Singh (1782-1839)

Size:19.7 x 13.6 in (50 x 34.5 cm)
Date of printing: 1910s-1920s

Popularly known as Sher-e-Punjab (Lion of Punjab), he was the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire. He contracted smallpox as an infant, resulting in loss of sight in his left eye. He united the Sikhs and founded Sikh Empire. He built a well-trained, self-sufficient Khalsa army to protect the empire. He amassed considerable wealth, including gaining the possession of the Koh-i-Noor diamond from Shuja Shah Durrani of Afghanistan.