Draft:Arjan Singh Nalwa

Arjan Singh Nalwa, also known as Arjan 'Vailly,' was the youngest among the four sons of Hari Singh Nalwa, who served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Sikh Khalsa Fauj during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.[1]

Early lifeEdit

Nalwa was born in the Malwa region, situated between the Ghagghar and Sutlej rivers, he hailed from the village of Kaunke near Jagroan, near present-day Ludhiana, Punjab. He enjoyed the favor and care of Kanvar Nau Nihal Singh, the grandson of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. However, his name became associated with a tragic incident in July 1840 when he reportedly killed one of his servants. The widow of the deceased servant committed sati (self-immolation), leading to a severe reaction from Nau Nihal Singh. In response, a substantial fine of Rs 10,000 was imposed on Nalwa after which he locked himself in his fortified house in Gujranwala. After the news of his separation from Nau Nihal Singh spread his house became a focal point as a contingent of troops under Brigadier Campbell, along with a squadron of Skinner's Horse, surrounded the premises. Despite the encirclement, Arjan Singh managed to escape capture, marking a significant event in his resistance against the British.

Involvement in the second Anglo-Sikh warEdit

As tensions escalated on the eve of the second Anglo-Sikh War in October 1848, Nalwa aligned himself with the Sikh army in resistance to the advancing British forces. Seeking refuge in his fortified house in Gujranwala, he became a notable figure in the struggle against British expansionism.

Legacy and later generationsEdit

His legacy continued through his grandson, Narain Singh, who received recognition from the British with the title of Sardar Bahadur. Narain Singh passed away in March 1934, leaving behind a historical legacy that reflected the complex dynamics of the Sikh Empire during a period of transition and conflict with the British.

The historical accounts of his life and actions are chronicled in the work of Sohan Lal Suri, titled "Umdatut Twarikh," published in Lahore between 1885-89.

ReferencesEdit

  1. "Did you know history behind Animal's power-packed song Arjan Vailly featuring Ranbir Kapoor?". PINKVILLA. 29 November 2023.