Shah Alam II returns to Delhi (1771–1772)

In January 1772 Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II returned to Delhi after years of exile, escorted by Mahadaji Scindia. The Marathas had recaptured Delhi in 1771, clearing the way for the emperor's restoration under Scindia's protection, ending a period during which representatives had acted for him in the capital.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Shah Alam II, born Ali Gohar, was the seventeenth Mughal emperor and son of Alamgir II. Invading Abdali forces deposed Shah Jahan III, the puppet emperor of Imad-ul-Mulk, and installed Shah Alam II as rightful emperor (1760–1772). Despite his claims, he could not return to Delhi until 1772.

Path to Delhi. In 1771 the Marathas under Mahadaji Scindia returned to northern India and captured Delhi, taking the city before Shah Alam II arrived. Shah Alam II left Allahabad in May 1771, escorted by Mahadaji Scindia, and reached Delhi in January 1772.

Restoration and Aftermath. The emperor returned to the throne in Delhi in 1772 under the protection of Mahadaji Scindia of Gwalior. During his absence, his son and heir apparent Prince Mirza Jawan Bakht and Najib-ul-Daula had represented the emperor for twelve years in Delhi. In 1784 the Marathas officially became protectors of the emperor in Delhi.

People involved

Sources

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