Question

To conquer and annex Peshawar and Punjab. Mahmud of Ghazni defeated?

• A. Ghurids
• B. Arabs
• C. Karkotakas
• D. Hindushahis

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To answer the question about who Mahmud of Ghazni defeated to conquer and annex Peshawar and Punjab, we need to understand the historical context of Mahmud of Ghazni's invasions in the Indian subcontinent.

Mahmud of Ghazni was a prominent ruler of the Ghaznavid Empire, and he conducted several raids into the Indian subcontinent during the early 11th century. The primary aim of Mahmud's campaigns was to loot and plunder wealth from the rich temples and cities of India. However, his conquest of Punjab and Peshawar was driven by a strategic desire to expand his empire's base.

The Hindushahis, also known as the Hindu Shahi dynasty, were ruling over the region of Peshawar and Punjab during Mahmud's time. The last ruler of the Hindushahi dynasty was Jayapala, who along with his successors was defeated by Mahmud of Ghazni in a series of battles.

1. Defeated the Hindushahis: Mahmud of Ghazni's notable victories over the Hindushahi rulers paved the way for the annexation of Punjab and parts of present-day Afghanistan and Pakistan. The defeat of Jayapala and his successor Anandapala ensured Mahmud's control over these strategic regions.
2. Elimination of Options:
   • Ghurids: The Ghurids were contemporary rivals of Mahmud of Ghazni, not the ones he defeated for Punjab and Peshawar.
   • Arabs: The Arabs had already established their influence earlier before Mahmud's westward expansions and were not a force he fought specifically for these regions.
   • Karkotakas: This dynasty ruled in Kashmir, which was geographically distinct and politically separate at the time of Mahmud’s expeditions.
3. Conclusion: Therefore, the correct answer is the Hindushahis, as they were the specific rulers overthrown by Mahmud of Ghazni to solidify his control over the Peshawar and Punjab regions.