An exploration of popular revolts and movements for regional independence in medieval India, including the Bhagu Movement, Jats, Afghans, and more during the decline of the Mughal Empire.

Early Mughal-Afghan Conflicts: A Recurring Theme

• Aurangzeb's conflict with the Afghans was not unique. Akbar and Shah Jahan had also faced similar challenges with these resilient tribesmen.
• These conflicts stemmed from a mix of economic, political, and religious factors. The Afghans, living in the rugged mountains with limited resources, often resorted to raiding caravans or joining the Mughal armies.
• The Mughals typically maintained peace through subsidies. However, population growth or an ambitious leader could disrupt this fragile balance.

Bhagu's Movement (1667): A Challenge to Mughal Authority

• In 1667, Bhagu, leader of the Yusufazai tribe, declared Muhammad Shah as king and himself as wazir, sparking a rebellion.
• The movement gained momentum, with Bhagu's followers raiding the Hazara, Attock, and Peshawar districts, disrupting traffic through the Khyber Pass.
• Aurangzeb dispatched Amir Khan, the chief bakhshi, and a Rajput contingent to quell the uprising. After several battles, the Afghan resistance was suppressed.

Akmal Khan's Uprising (1672): A Major Setback for the Mughals

• In 1672, Akmal Khan, the Afridi leader, proclaimed himself king and declared war on the Mughals, effectively closing the Khyber Pass.
• Amir Khan's attempt to reopen the Pass resulted in a devastating defeat in the narrow defile. The Mughals suffered heavy losses, including 10,000 men and valuable goods.
• This victory emboldened other tribes, including those led by Khushhal Khan Khattak, to join the fight against the Mughals.

Resolution of the Afghan Conflicts: Mughal Strategies and Outcomes

• In 1674, Shujaat Khan, a Mughal noble, faced a similar defeat in the Khyber but was rescued by Rathors sent by Jaswant Singh.
• Aurangzeb personally traveled to Peshawar in 1674 and remained there until late 1675. He employed both military force and diplomacy to divide the Afghan tribes and restore peace.
• The Afghan uprising demonstrated that resistance to Mughal rule and the desire for regional autonomy were not exclusive to groups like the Jats and Marathas.
• This uprising also eased Mughal pressure on Shivaji in the Deccan, hindering their ability to pursue an aggressive policy there until 1676.