- Source: Battle of Nadaun (1752)
The Battle of Nadaun was fought in August 1752 by the Mandi and Guler state led by the Rajas of the states and the Mughal Empire led by Aziz Khan, the steward of Mir Mannu. The Hill States were supported by the Sikhs led by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.
Background
During the rainy season of July-August 1752, Aziz Khan was sent by Mir Mannu to collect tribute from the hill chiefs and bring it to Lahore with him. However, Aziz Khan on purpose set the tribute at a cost in which the hill chiefs couldn't pay him. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was at Anandpur Sahib at the time. The rajas of Mandi and Guler requested help from the Sikh Sardar. He proceeded to Nadaun as the steward was present there and challenged him to a battle with a strong force.
Battle
No decisive action took place on the first day since it was already nighttime. A fierce engagement took place the next day in which the hill states and the Dal Khalsa managed to defeat the imperial army and slay the steward.
Aftermath
Mir Mannu was enraged at learning about the defeat and he wrote to Adina Beg to attack the Sikhs and defeat them. The Sikhs were busy with the Hola Mohalla fair at Anandpur Sahib which gave Adina Beg a perfect opportunity to attack the Sikhs. In the Battle of Anandpur (1753) the Mughals were defeated but managed to massacre a large number of innocent Sikhs.
References
See also
Nihang
Martyrdom and Sikhism