HARI SINGH NALWA: A PRAGMATIC DRAFTSMAN OF SIKH RAJ IN HAZARA

Abstract

Hari Singh Nalwa is known as one of the most acclaimed generals in the political
history of Sikh rule. Main objective of the present study is to see that how his
remarkable character contributed in the expansion of Sikh rule all over the
Punjab and its adjacent areas up to greater extent. Hari Sigh was a multitalented
person who proved his worth as a general, administrator and fine town builder
etc. Numerous books, articles and research papers have been published on
various aspects of his life yet an important span of his life as the governor of
Hazara remained largely unexplored. Current study by consulting some primary
sources including Sikhs accounts of wars and their accomplishments, travelogues
and journals of that era along with various secondary sources etc biographies,
research papers and articles etc focuses his role as a governor of Hazara during
1822 to 1837. In spite of the fact, that majority of the Tribes in Hazara, at that
time, were rebellious in nature and unruly for any foreign intruder making it a
tough area for control and administration yet his work as administrator of
Hazara contributed a remarkable share in the settlement of Sikh rule.