Raja Dahir: The last Hero of Sindh Who Defended His Homeland
Raja Dahir (663–712 CE) (راجا ڏاھر)was the last Hindu ruler of Sindh, a land of rich heritage and culture. He is celebrated as a hero who fought valiantly to protect Sindh from Arab invaders led by Muhammad bin Qasim. His resistance against the Umayyad Caliphate was not just a battle for his kingdom but a struggle to preserve the identity, traditions, and freedom of Sindh.
Early Life and Ascension to the Throne
Born in 663 CE into the Brahman dynasty, Raja Daher was the son of Chach of Aror, who had established the Chach dynasty. Trained in governance and warfare, Dahir became the ruler of Sindh and dedicated his reign to the prosperity and security of his people. He was known for his wisdom, bravery, and strong sense of justice, ensuring that Sindh remained a powerful and independent state despite growing external threats.
The Rising Threat of the Umayyad Caliphate
During Sindhi Raja’s rule, the expansionist ambitions of the Umayyad Caliphate loomed over Sindh. The Arab governor of Basra, Al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf, sought to conquer Sindh to extend Umayyad control into the Indian subcontinent. The invasion was triggered by an incident where pirates off the Sindhi coast attacked Arab ships carrying gifts from the king of Serendib (modern Sri Lanka) to the Umayyad Caliph. Using this as an excuse, Hajjaj launched a military campaign against Sindh.
Raja Dahir’s Resistance Against the Arab Invaders
Raja, recognizing the gravity of the threat, took immediate action. He fortified his kingdom and successfully repelled two major Arab invasions, proving himself to be a formidable warrior and a strategic ruler. Under his leadership, Sindh stood strong against the powerful Arab forces. His son, Jaisiah, also played a crucial role in these battles, helping Sindh achieve victories at Debal.
However, the Arabs, determined to conquer Sindh, launched another attack under Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 CE. Raja Dahir, refusing to surrender, chose to fight to the last breath for the freedom of his homeland.
The Battle of Aror: The Ultimate Sacrifice
The decisive battle took place at Aror, near modern-day Nawabshah, on the banks of the Indus River. Raja Dahir led his army with unmatched courage, inspiring his soldiers to defend their land. In his final speech, he declared his unwavering commitment to Sindh:
“I shall fight the invaders with all my might. If I am victorious, Sindh shall remain free; if I am martyred, history will remember that Raja Dahir laid down his life for his people.”
“مان حملي آورن سان پوري سگهه سان وڙهندس. جيڪڏهن مان ڪامياب ٿيس، ته سنڌ آزاد رهندي؛ جيڪڏهن مان شهيد ٿيس، ته تاريخ ياد رکندي ته راجا ڏاهر پنهنجي ماڻهن لاءِ پنهنجو جان نثار ڪري ڇڏيو.”
Despite his valor, Dahir was ultimately betrayed by some Buddhist factions who resented his rule and sided with the Arabs. He was killed in battle, making the ultimate sacrifice for Sindh. His head was sent to Hajjaj as a symbol of Arab conquest, but his legacy as a warrior and patriot remained immortal.
Revenge by Daughters
After the conquest of Sindh by Muhammad bin Qasim in 712 CE, Raja Dahir was killed in battle, and his family, including his daughters namely Surya Devi and Premala Devi, and sisters, were taken captive. The hostages were sent to Caliph Sulayman ibn Abd al-Malik in Damascus as part of the war spoils.
According to the Chach Nama, Raja Dahir’s daughters, Surya Devi and Premala Devi, sought revenge for their father’s death. Upon reaching the Caliph’s court, they alleged that Muhammad bin Qasim had dishonored them before sending them as gifts. Enraged, the Caliph ordered his immediate execution.
Death of Qasim’s son
Bin Qasim was allegedly wrapped in ox hides and suffocated to death while being transported to Syria. However, when the Caliph later discovered that the accusations were false, he was filled with remorse. As punishment, he ordered that Raja Dahir’s daughters be buried alive within a wall.
Aftermath
Muhammad bin Qasim’s death marked the end of his conquest, and Sindh came under direct Umayyad control. Despite historical debates about the accuracy of this account, the story remains a significant part of South Asian folklore, symbolizing betrayal, political intrigue, and vengeance.
Legacy of a Sindhi Hero
Even after his death, his story continues to inspire generations. He is remembered as a hero who fought for the dignity, sovereignty, and independence of Sindh. His resistance against foreign invaders symbolizes the undying spirit of the Sindhi people.
His struggle was not just a battle for power but a fight to protect the cultural and historical identity of Sindh. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who honor Sindh’s rich heritage and the sacrifices made to defend it.
Sindhis Honor Raja Dahir as a Hero
Sindhis still revere Raja Dahir as a symbol of bravery and resistance. On his 1,303rd death anniversary, Jeay Sindh Tehreek (JST) activists paid homage, highlighting his fight against extremism. Leaders stated that after his martyrdom, Sindh’s rulers exploited resources, leaving locals in poverty, yet his legacy endures.
Conclusion
Raja Dahir’s name is etched in history as a fearless warrior and a true patriot of Sindh. His unwavering resistance against the foreign invaders serves as a reminder of the courage and determination needed to protect one’s homeland. Even in death, he remains the undying hero of Sindh, whose sacrifice will forever be remembered as a symbol of bravery and honor.