Question

The most decisive battle between the forces of Dara Shikoh and Aurangzeb (in the war of Succession) was fought at ______.
A. Dharmat
B. Samugarh
C. Deorai
D. Khajwa

Answer 1

Hint:
This battle is very much famous in Indian history. It was a decisive battle for getting the Mughal Emperor throne during the Mughal war of succession. It happened between the sons of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It happened after the emperor's serious illness in 1657.

Complete step by step solution:
Battle of Samugarh, also termed as Jang-e-Samugarh. It was fought between Shahjahan’s eldest son Dara Shikoh and his two other younger brothers Aurangzeb and Murad Baksh.
Two great Mughal armies, led by Shah Jahan’s eldest son Dara Shikoh and third son Aurangzeb, clashed on the dusty plain of Samugarh. This place was 20 km southeast of the Agra. It was not only a battle of that for the Mughal throne but also a battle for the very soul of India. Dara Shiloh was on the brink of his victory when he was betrayed by one of his own commanders, Khalilullah Khan. He then retreated to Lahore. Eventually, he was brought to Delhi for further trial.

Additional Information:
Dara Shikoh began to retreat towards the Samugarh, after Aurangzeb had defeated his forces during the Battle of Dharmat. Then Aurangzeb and his smaller but strong army then flanked Dara’s fortified line along the Chambal River. Where they found a little-known and unguarded ford.

Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note:
If Dara Shikoh had won the battle of Samugarh, then his rule might have promoted harmony between India’s turbulent peoples. A united Mughal empire may have prevented India from becoming so easily colonised by the European powers.