Question

Why did Humayun not help Rani Karnavati against Bahadur Shah?
A) He did not want to annoy Bahadur Shah
B) He was not in a position to help her
C) He did not want to strengthen the Rajputs
D) He thought it was better not to help a Hindu ruler against the Muslim invader according to Islam religion

Answer 1

Hint: Rani Karnavati was a fearless lady warrior who defended her kingdom not only from the Kumaon, Sirmour, and Tibet chieftains but also from the mighty Emperor Shah Jahan and his heirs. Garhwal was chosen because it possessed silver, copper, and gold mines.

Complete answer:
Humayun, who was on the Bengal invasion, answered cordially and guaranteed Rani Karnawati of his aid, which may make Rajputs more sympathetic to Mughals who are the rulers of India. He left the Bengal expedition in the middle but was unable to reach Chittoor on time. Bahadur Shah invaded Chittorgarh for the second time and ravaged the city.

She was as ruthless as her husband and defended Chittor with a tiny force of soldiers until the Gujarat army, led by the bahadur king of Gujarat, sacked it. She refused to flee, and in order to maintain her honour, she committed Jauhar.

The Rajput army, which lacked a leader, was small, and the disparities amongst them were vast. They were already discouraged after losing a battle against Sultan. Maharani had no choice but to ask Mughal Emperor Humayun for immediate assistance when the fort was suddenly besieged. Humayun received a rakhi from her. The profound message provided by the delicate sacred thread was quickly recognised by Humayun.

Sceptics claim Humayun's delay was intentional because he was undecided about whether or not to fight for his Hindu sister!

Humayun did not help Rani Karanwati against Bahadur Shah because he thought it was better not to help a Hindu ruler against the Muslim invader according to Islam religion.

Therefore the correct answer is option ‘D’.

Note: From 1777 until 1799, Rana Bahadur Shah, King of Nepal (1775–1806) ruled Nepal. After his father, King Pratap Singh Shah, died in 1777, he ascended to the throne. He was regent under his mother, Queen Rajendra Rajya Lakshmi Devi (who died of disease on July 13, 1785), and afterwards his uncle, Bahadur Shah.