Founder of the Sikh Empire | Lion of Punjab | Secular Ruler & Military Strategist
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born on November 13, 1780, in Gujranwala (now in Pakistan). Orphaned at a young age, he rose through bravery and intelligence to become the founder of the Sikh Empire, uniting the warring misls (Sikh confederacies) into a powerful and centralized state by 1801, when he was crowned Maharaja of Punjab in Lahore. Under his leadership, Punjab became one of the most prosperous and stable regions in India.
A skilled military strategist, Ranjit Singh modernized his army with the help of European officers while maintaining traditional Sikh values. He successfully defended Punjab against Afghan invasions and was one of the few Indian rulers who never lost a battle to the British during his reign.
He appointed Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs alike to high positions in his court and ensured the protection of all religious communities. He is also remembered for his restoration of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, which he covered in gold, giving it its iconic appearance. Ranjit Singh passed away in 1839, and though his empire eventually fell after his death, his legacy as a just and visionary ruler endures as the “Sher-e-Punjab” (Lion of Punjab).