Nepal could not be captured by the Mughals because difficult geography, limited economic importance, strength of Gorkha warriors, cultural identity and trade relations kept it independent.

Nepal is currently going through a turbulent phase. Unemployment is increasing, youth are protesting on the streets and the government is being accused of corruption. Meanwhile, the demand for the return of monarchy is also being raised. Amidst this political instability, an old question is again in discussion - why did the Mughals, who ruled a huge country like India for more than 300 years, never completely subjugated Nepal?

Mughal Empire and the question of Nepal

The Mughal Empire was the most powerful force in the Indian subcontinent from the 16th to the 18th century. From Babur to Aurangzeb, the Mughal influence extended to Bengal, Punjab, Deccan and the Afghan border. Despite this, Nepal remained outside their control.

Nepal's geographical location was the biggest challenge for the Mughals. High mountains, narrow passes, deep valleys and dense forests provided natural protection to Nepal. The Mughals, who relied on heavy artillery and a large cavalry, would have been vulnerable in mountain warfare.

Less economic importance

The Mughals mostly had their eyes on the plains and fertile areas. The Ganga-Yamuna Doab, Bengal and Gujarat were a major source of prosperity and trade for them. In comparison, Nepal was an area with limited agricultural production and difficult geography. Therefore, it was not an attractive target for the empire.

At that time Nepal was divided into many small states-Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur. These states might have fought among themselves, but during external attacks they were able to resist together. This unity became a protective shield against the Mughals.

Trade relations between Nepal, India and Tibet

Nepal was a trade bridge between India and Tibet. A large trade of salt, wool, spices and metals took place from here. It was more beneficial for the Mughals to maintain trade relations with Nepal rather than fighting with it.

Cultural Reasons

Nepal was a strong centre of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The people there were conscious of their cultural identity. Mughal rule was seen as a cultural threat. This was the reason why Nepal did not accept external subjugation.

The challenge of military strategy

Nepal's Gorkha warriors were adept at mountain guerrilla warfare. In contrast, the Mughal army was based on plains strategy. They could have suffered heavy losses in the mountains. Therefore, they did not take the risk of attacking Nepal.

The Mughals had many other big challenges. Afghan and Iranian threats in the north-west, conflict with the Marathas in the south and difficulties in Assam and Bengal in the east. In such a situation, a small and difficult territory like Nepal did not become a target for their expansion.

What are the historical evidences?

• Mention of Nepal in Ain-e-Akbari is limited to trade and cultural relations.
• J.N. Sarkar has written that Nepal never came under the direct rule of the Mughals.
• Nepalese historians also believe that Nepal has always protected its sovereignty.

 PC:ABPNews