Biography of a Dogra
The historical narrative of the Dogras, residing on the periphery of India and often in the crosshairs of foreign invasions, presents a fascinating yet under recorded chapter. The absence of a Dogra equivalent to the Rajatarangini has contributed to a less-documented history, although some historians and foreign writers have shed light on the Dogras, particularly over the last two to three centuries.
The geographical positioning of the Dogra region, nestled in the lower hills of the Himalayas or the Shivaliks, shielded them from frequent invasions. Unlike the prosperous plains of Punjab or the scenic beauty of Kashmir, the Dogra territory did not attract many invaders. The formidable natural barriers, including the challenging hills from Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu to Himachal Pradesh, Kangra District to Nahan, the Jammu River, and beyond to Assam, acted as a deterrent. Consequently, the Dogra people were somewhat insulated from invasions, allowing them to play a significant role in resisting, combating, and sometimes pursuing invaders.
The emergence of the Sikh Empire under Emperor Maharaja Ranjit Singh marked a crucial phase for the Dogras. The three Dogra brothers, Gulab Singh, Dhain Singh, and Suchait Singh, along with their descendants, aligned themselves with the Sikh Empire. They played pivotal roles in supporting Ranjit Singh. However, with the demise of Ranjit Singh, anarchy ensued in Punjab, leading to a shift in the dynamics. The Dogra rulers, particularly Maharaja Gulab Singh and his successors, faced hostility from those who had once been allies. Tragically, in the tumultuous Lahore situation, Maharaja Gulab Singh’s brothers, nephews, and even his own sons fell victim to the internal strife, marking a somber chapter in Dogra history. The complex interplay of alliances and conflicts underscore the intricate nature of the Dogras’ historical journey in the region.
The role and contributions of the Dogras, residing on the periphery of the Indian subcontinent, have often been overlooked, but when assessed from a military perspective, they stand parallel to renowned generals and rulers such as Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Shivaji, Maharana Pratap, and Ashok Samrat. This distinction arises from the unique circumstances under which the Dogras operated, emerging as significant players during a critical period in India’s history, particularly during the war of Independence in the early 19th century. A brief examination of the Dogras’ contributions reveals a compelling narrative. Following the Mauryan Empire, the Mughals established their dominion over most of the country, except for certain southern areas. However, as the Mughal Empire faced threats from the Marathas, the British East India Company intervened, exploiting India’s internal divisions through their ‘Divide and Rule’ policies. The Mughal Empire and subsequently the Maratha Empire fell to British dominance. Concurrently, the Sikh Empire under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was rising, aided by the Dogra brothers, Maharaja Gulab Singh, Dhain Singh, and Suchait Singh.
In collaboration with the Sikhs, the Dogras played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Sikh Empire by 1899. Maharaja Gulab Singh, with the support of Dogra forces, not only managed independent states perpetually at odds with the Mughals and Sikhs but also assisted Maharaja Ranjit Singh in extending the Sikh Empire. During this period, General Zorawar Singh joined their ranks, becoming another notable military leader.
In 17th June, Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed Gulab Singh as Raja, marking a turning point. Gulab Singh proceeded to conquer all 22 states of Jammu. Alongside General Zorawar Singh, another exceptional military mind, they aimed to extend their influence into uncharted territories beyond the Himalayas, venturing into Ladakh, Gilgit, Baltistan, and Tibet. The Dogras’ greatness becomes apparent as Maharaja Gulab Singh, with the tacit approval of the Sikhs, directed General Zorawar Singh to conquer Ladakh and Baltistan. Over five years, from 1834 to 1839, General Zorawar Singh consolidated his position before annexing Baltistan, including Skardu and Kargil, and even parts of Tibet in 1841. This expansion marked a significant chapter in the history of the Dogras, illustrating their strategic vision and military prowess in the challenging terrain of the Himalayan region.
The legacy of the Dogras continued to unfold with General Zorawar Singh’s last triumph at the Battle of Mantalai against the combined forces of the Chinese and Tibetans. During this battle, General Zorawar Singh captured the Chinese standard, known as the Mantalai Flag, a symbol that endures and is still carried by the Battalion, presently named 4 JAK Rifles under Colonel Baste Ram from Kishtwar. Unfortunately, General Zorawar Singh met defeat and lost his life on 12th December 1841 at the Battle of Toyo. Despite his demise, the territorial gains made by the Dogras were retained.
Following General Zorawar Singh’s death, the Chinese and Tibetans launched attacks on Ladakh and captured parts of the region. However, the following year witnessed a reversal of fortunes for the invaders, resulting in the Treaty of Chushul. Subsequently, Dogras successfully reclaimed and occupied all the areas of Ladakh, Baltistan, and Gilgit.
The geopolitical dynamics took a decisive turn in 1846 when the Sikhs lost the battle to the British, rendering them unable to pay the indemnity of 75 Lacs of rupees. As a consequence, Kashmir was sold to the Dogras, and Maharaja Gulab Singh, thus, became the emperor Maharaja after the signing of the Treaty of Amritsar in 1846. This marked the formation of the Jammu and Kashmir State, extending across the Himalayas and strategically providing depth to the country by incorporating Ladakh, Gilgit, and Baltistan—regions of high altitude.
The Dogras’ unique feat lies in their ability to conquer, extend, and rule over these challenging high-altitude areas without the aid of modern means. Their greatness is exemplified by the fact that no other armies from the plains worldwide have annexed, occupied, and ruled such formidable territories for an extended period, spanning over a century. The Dogras’ possession of the largest state in India, strategically located in the high-altitude regions bordering various adversaries like China, Russia, Afghanistan, and Mongolia, is a testament to their military prowess and strategic acumen.
It is often noted that the area conquered by the Dogras encompasses the most strategic region in the world, commonly referred to as the Strategic Heart of Asia—the Gilgit. This strategic positioning, while providing depth to India, also posed challenges, particularly during the British colonial era, as they were reluctant to relinquish control over such a crucial international area bordering India. This historical context sheds light on the intricate geopolitical considerations and the enduring significance of the Dogras’ contributions to the region.
The intricate political dynamics continued to shape the fate of the Dogras after the demise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1839. During his rule, Maharaja Ranjit Singh acted as a shield for the Dogras, and their expansion into various territories was facilitated under his protective umbrella. However, with the demise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the geopolitical landscape shifted, and the British, sensing an opportunity, began to pose challenges to the Dogras.
Despite the changing circumstances, Maharaja Gulab Singh demonstrated astute statesmanship and strength. Having assisted the British multiple times, he avoided direct confrontation and troubles. The British, recognizing his value, refrained from causing him significant inconvenience. However, as the British grew stronger, apprehensions loomed over the Dogras regarding the fate of the strategically significant state they had established.
Amidst these uncertainties, the Dogras ventured into Tibet with the tacit support of the Sikhs and a subtle nod from the British. The campaign faced a setback in 1841 when General Zorawar Singh suffered a crucial defeat, preventing the capture of Lhasa. The subsequent downfall of the Sikh Empire prompted the British to reconsider their relationship with the Dogras. Maharaja Gulab Singh, known for his political acumen, carefully navigated the evolving situation.
The year 1857 marked a turning point with the outbreak of the Indian War of Independence. While the British faced significant challenges during this period, they also recognized their strength in comparison to the fragmented Indian resistance. Maharaja Gulab Singh, perceptive of the changing dynamics, decided to adopt a cautious approach. Assessing the situation and the growing strength of the British, he chose to remain somewhat aloof.
In a remarkable act of statesmanship, Maharaja Gulab Singh handed over the rule to his son, Maharaja Ranbir Singh, becoming a subject himself—an extraordinary move that helped ward off any hostile actions by the British. This strategic decision to transition from ruler to subject was a testament to Maharaja Gulab Singh’s foresight and understanding of the evolving geopolitical landscape. While the British, in hindsight, expressed regret over the autonomy granted to Maharaja Gulab Singh, it proved to be an irreversible reality by that time.
This astute maneuver by Maharaja Gulab Singh allowed the Dogras to navigate through the turbulent times and preserve the strategically vital state of Jammu and Kashmir, maintaining their autonomy and strategic significance amid the challenges posed by the British colonial administration.
After the passing of Maharaja Gulab Singh, the British turned their attention to troubling Maharaja Ranbir Singh, and eventually, Maharaja Pratap Singh faced removal from the throne for 15 years. During this period, the state was ruled by regency under Raja Amar Singh, Maharaja Pratap Singh’s younger brother. The British aimed to control the state and, ultimately, sought to take over Gilgit Baltistan. However, under Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule, this was prevented.
Upon Maharaja Hari Singh’s ascension in 1925, the British, recognizing his education and strong rulership, became concerned about his resistance to their influence. In an attempt to undermine his credibility, the British spread various scandals about him, portraying him as incompetent and thrifty. Despite these efforts, Maharaja Hari Singh refused to align with the British during the Round Table Conference in 1931 and instead advocated for India’s freedom. This stance made him an enemy of the British, leading to attempts to remove him immediately after the conference.
To create unrest and pressure Maharaja Hari Singh, the British encouraged Sheikh Abdullah and brought in Kader Khan from Punjab to deliver fiery speeches against the Dogra ruler and the State Forces. The goal was to force Maharaja Hari Singh to either leave Kashmir or hand over Gilgit Baltistan to the British in preparation for the imminent Second World War. Despite four years of resistance, Maharaja Hari Singh ultimately had to concede and leased Gilgit to British India for 60 years.
From 1935 to 1946, there was relative peace in the region. However, troubles resurfaced when Sheikh Abdullah, supported by the British earlier, demanded the Dogras to quit Kashmir, a move not acceptable to Maharaja Hari Singh. The Congress under Nehru exploited these tensions, creating problems for the state and, subsequently, for India. The longstanding conflict over Kashmir has resulted in four wars, with numerous lives lost on both sides. Kashmiri pundits faced a mass exodus from the Valley, and Kashmiri Muslims have borne the brunt of the violence. The situation remains complex, with ongoing conflicts and geopolitical challenges. The strategic defense provided by Jammu and Kashmir against external threats, including the current concern of China, underscores the enduring impact of the state created by the Dogras for the defense of the country.