Battle Of Khanwa: The Clash That Paved The Way For The Mughal Empire In India – News18

Last Updated:March 21, 2025, 14:38 IST

The Battle of Khanwa (1527) was a decisive clash that cemented Babur’s rule in India, marking the rise of the Mughal Empire over Rajput power.

Throughout Indian history, several rulers have participated in conflicts and wars, including battles like the Kalinga War, the Battle of Panipat, and various Anglo-Indian wars, changing the political landscape and leaving a lasting imprint on the region. Among these was the Battle of Khanwa, fought in 1527 between Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, and Rana Sanga, the head of the Rajput Confederation, on the grounds of Khanwa, just outside Bharatpur in Rajasthan.

Even though most history books and historical films do not provide extensive details about this war, historians believe that this battle was more significant than many others in establishing the Mughal Empire in India. It introduced new war tactics, such as gunpowder and cannons, which the Mughals had also used against the Lodhis during the Battle of Panipat.

Babur’s ambitions increased after he defeated Ibrahim Lodi in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526. Though he disliked the Indian climate and topography, as he mentioned in the Baburnama, the Mughal Emperor chose to stay and establish his authority by defeating other Indian warlords.

However, during this time, Rana Sanga of Mewar believed that Babur would return to Kabul after looting the treasure from Delhi, giving him an opportunity to capture the provinces of Delhi and Agra. When it became clear that Babur intended to stay in India, Sanga formed a grand coalition of Rajputs and Afghans who feared Babur’s growing authority.

The primary objective of this coalition was to drive Babur out of India and confine him to Afghanistan. In the early months of March 1527, Babur learned that an army of Afghans and Rajputs was advancing towards his defences in Agra.

Alarmed by the news of the Rajput and Afghan attack, Babur delivered an inspiring speech to boost his soldiers’ morale and swore to abstain from alcohol as a symbol of his dedication.

Before the Battle of Khanwa, the Mughals and Rajputs clashed in Bayana. Babur himself described the encounter in the Baburnama, writing, “The kafirs (Hindus) fought so hard that the Mughal army was almost completely wiped out. At Bayana, the Rajput army led by Sanga outnumbered us and demoralised our soldiers.”

Later, the decisive Battle of Khanwa took place in March 1527, where Sanga’s army, with around 2 lakh men, fought bravely against Babur. Despite having a larger force than the Mughals, the Rajputs failed to win the war. But why? According to historian William Erskine, Babur’s success was not merely due to strength but rather to strategic planning and the effective use of advanced weaponry.

Knowing that the Rajputs vastly outnumbered his forces, Babur devised a defensive strategy based on fortified camps equipped with firearms. He used muskets and cannons to deliver devastating blows to his opponents, who lacked firearms. The firing positions were shielded by carts linked together, with ample space for the cavalry to advance.

Another major reason for the Rajputs’ defeat was the betrayal of Silhadi Tomar, one of Sanga’s allies, who defected to Babur’s side, shifting the battle’s momentum.

Sanga was seriously injured and taken away from the battlefield. Ajja Jhala of Halwad took command and fought valiantly until his death. Babur’s well-executed strategy, superior cavalry, and artillery ultimately led to his victory. Many Rajput nobles died in battle, notably Rawal Udai Singh of Dungarpur and several Rathore and Chundawat chiefs.

After regaining consciousness, Sanga resolved to attack Babur again and began rebuilding his army. However, his nobles, fearing another catastrophic defeat, poisoned him to prevent further fighting.

Sanga died on 30 January 1528 near Mandalgarh, and a memorial was later built in his honour. Babur’s victory at Khanwa strengthened the Mughal position in northern India while marking the decline of Rajput power.

Babur’s triumph over the Rajputs signalled the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India.