Political Dynamics During the Reign of Ranjit Singh: A Case of Western Himachal Hill States

Abstract

The extension of the power of Ranjit Singh in the early nineteenth century in the hilly regions of Upper Sutlej changed the political scenario in many aspects. The hill states became beneficial to Ranjit Singh as they were forced into the Vassal–Suzerain relationship. All this increased the status of Ranjit Singh, and he eventually came to occupy the whole of the hilly areas barring the Shimla Hill States, which were under the domination of the British. During this tumultuous period, the hill areas were facing the rising power of Raja Sansar Chand of Kangra, the depredations of the Gurkhas and finally the British ascendency. All these events changed the political map of the hills forever. This article attempts to examine the course of events that took place leading to the extension of Ranjit Singh’s power in the hill states in the upper areas of Sutlej River and its unequivocal impact on the political domain.