The history of medieval India is replete with tales of valour and resistance against foreign invaders. Among these stories, the saga of Raja Bikramjit Ghosh, a Sadgop ruler of Mangalkot in Central Bengal, stands out as a beacon of courage and determination. Hailed as “Bikram Keshari,” this fourteenth-century ruler successfully repelled multiple invasions by the Delhi Sultanate, earning a place of honour among the warriors of Bengal.
Following the decline of the Sena and Deva dynasties, Bengal faced repeated invasions from the north. The death of the last Sena king, Madhu Sena, and the Deva king, Danuj Rai, left a leadership vacuum in the region. It was during this period of uncertainty that Raja Bikramjit Ghosh emerged as a formidable leader.
Mangalkot Realm and Its Legacy
Mangalkot was located in the Gopbhum region of Bengal. It was a prosperous and strategically important city during Raja Bikramjit’s reign. Historically an important trading hub, it facilitated commerce with regions as distant as Lanka, Burma, Thailand and Bali.
Raja Bikramjit Ghosh was Sadgop (clan of Yadavs) by caste. Historically, these Sadgops held significant influence in Bengal, controlling prominent estates such as Midnapore Raj, Narayangarh Raj, Balarampur Raj, Narajole Estate, and several other zamindari territories across the region. Sadgop ruling family of Mangalkot was deeply rooted in Gaudiya Vaishnav traditions, with Mother Abhaya Chandi as their Kuldevi (family deity).
Threat from the Delhi Sultanate
In the late 13th and early 14th centuries, the Delhi Sultans tried to extend their influence into Bengal. Bengal was repeatedly plundered by Uzbek tribal raiders supported by the Delhi Sultanate who called themselves Ghazis. However, Bengal remained a stronghold of Hindu resistance. Mangalkot’s ruler, Raja Bikramjit Ghosh, played a pivotal role in defending the region during this turbulent period.
The first major assault on Mangalkot occurred in 1303, led by Uzbek Ghazi invaders. These forces camped in the western forests of Mangalkot, preparing to attack. Raja Bikramjit, a devout follower of Mother Abhaya Chandi, rallied his Sadgop warriors and launched a counter-offensive. The fierce battle ended with the annihilation of the invading forces, whose bodies were unceremoniously thrown into the Ajay River at the Raja’s command.
Repeated Invasions and Victories
Between 1303 and 1327, the Delhi Sultanate launched at least 17 invasions targeting Mangalkot. Each time, Raja Bikramjit rose to the occasion, leading his Sadgop army to victory. Of these, the names of seven prominent Ghazis are known as Muhammad, Hazi Feroze, Ghulam Pathan, Mohammad Ismail Ghazi, Abdunnah Gujarati Makchum Bilaye and Ghaznavi. These battles not only demonstrated the military skill of the Sadgop warriors but also underscored Raja Bikramjit’s strategic acumen.
The ruler’s valour earned him the title of “Bikram Keshari” from the elite Radhi Brahmins, a testament to his heroic deeds. Despite the Delhi Sultanate’s formidable resources and relentless attempts, they failed to subjugate Mangalkot during Raja Bikramjit’s reign.
Cultural and Political Contributions
Raja Bikramjit was not just a warrior; he was also a patron of culture and religion. His court celebrated the Gaudiya Vaishnav tradition, with the Gita Govinda being a central text of devotion. He is remembered for his dedication to preserving the cultural and religious heritage of Bengal amidst the threat of foreign domination.
The Fall of Mangalkot
After Raja Bikramjit’s death, Mangalkot faced renewed challenges. Ottoman invaders temporarily occupied the region, constructing tombs for the slain Ghazi generals as symbols of their brief triumph. These tombs, still present today, serve as silent witnesses to the ferocious battles fought on the land of Mangalkot.
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