Alauddin Khilji's invasion of Ranthambore 1301

Allahud Din Khilchi is considered to be the most ambitious and most powerful ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. He attacked the Ranthambore Fort in 1301 AD.

In 1301, Sultan Alauddin Khilji of the Delhi Sultanate attacked the Ranthambore Fort. The fort was then under the control of Rajput king Hammir Dev Chauhan. 

This war was an important episode in the military campaigns of the Delhi Sultanate against the Rajputs.

Alauddin Khilji's invasion of Ranthambore - Key Points:

1. Reasons for the war:

- Alauddin Khilji's aim was to bring the entire northern and western India under his control.

- Ranthambore Fort was strategically important as it was a siege between Delhi and Gujarat.

- Hammir Dev had given shelter to kings and rebels who were opposed to Alauddin Khilji, especially those who rebelled against Nusrat Khan and Ulugh Khan.

- Alauddin Khilji had tried to attack this fort earlier as well but failed.

2. Invasion and Siege:

- In 1301, Alauddin Khilji marched with a huge military force to conquer Ranthambore Fort.

- On behalf of the Delhi Sultanate, generals like **Nusrat Khan, Ulug Khan and Kafur** were involved in this war.

- Ranthambore Fort could be won with difficulty due to strong security and height.

- Initially the Rajputs defended the fort, but when Nusrat Khan was killed, the war became even more fierce.

3. Defeat of Hammir Dev

- After a long struggle, Alauddin Khilji's army broke the outer defenses of the fort.

- Food supplies started getting destroyed in the fort, which weakened the position of the defenders.

- Finally in 1301 Hammir Dev was defeated and he attained martyrdom.

- After the battle, Hammir Dev's queens and women committed jauhar (self immolation) so that they would not be humiliated at the hands of the enemy.

4. Importance of Ranthambore and Khilji Rule:

- After the victory over Ranthambore, Alauddin Khilji annexed it to his empire and appointed a Muslim governor there.

- This victory gave Khilji more power in Rajasthan and western India.

Conclusion:
Alauddin Khilji's attack on Ranthambore was a defining event in the medieval history of India. The battle was a symbol of the valour and sacrifice of the Rajputs, 

while it was also a part of Khilji's empire expansion policy. After the victory over Ranthambore, Alauddin Khilji succeeded in gaining more supremacy in Rajasthan.