The Battle of Khanwa, fought in 1527, was a crucial conflict in Indian history, marking the consolidation of Babur's power in the Indo-Gangetic plain. The roots of this battle can be traced back to the growing conflict between Rana Sanga and Ibrahim Lodi for the domination of eastern Rajasthan and Malwa. Rana Sanga, having defeated Mahmud Khalji of Malwa, extended his influence up to Piliya Khar near Agra. However, the establishment of Babur’s empire in the Indo-Gangetic valley posed a significant threat to Sanga

Key Details:

• --> Conflict between Rana Sanga and Babur for domination in Rajasthan and Malwa.


• --> Rana Sanga had extended his influence up to Piliya Khar near Agra, which posed a threat to Babur's newly established empire.


• --> Babur accused Sanga of breach of agreement, as Sanga had promised to join him against Ibrahim Lodi but did not.


• --> Many Afghans, including Mahmud Lodi, and Rajput rulers joined forces with Rana Sanga against Babur.


• --> Babur declared the war as a jihad, rallied his troops, and banned wine throughout his dominions.


• --> Babur fortified his position at Khanwa by lashing wagons together as an outer bastion and digging a trench in front.

Key Details:

• --> Rana Sanga escaped but was later poisoned by his own nobles, ending the dream of a united Rajasthan.


• --> Babur's victory at Khanwa secured his position in the Delhi-Agra region.


• --> Babur strengthened his hold by conquering forts like Gwalior and Dholpur, and annexing parts of Alwar.


• --> Babur then captured Chanderi in Malwa, where the Rajput defenders fought to the last man and their women performed jauhar.


• --> Babur had to cut short further campaigns due to Afghan activities in eastern Uttar Pradesh.