While analyzing the popularity of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with his subjects, one finds that Sher-e-Punjab had adopted a secular approach towards them. But that was not the only reason. We'll give you 13 reasons why he was so popular in Punjab and still lives in the heart of every Punjabi even after 180+ years of his death.
Brief Intro
Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been described as Sher-e-Punjab, the Lion of Punjab. During his adolescence, he killed barehanded a lion at Gujranwala, and the place to date is known as the Sheranwala Bagh or the garden of lions. The reason for this. a popular synonym is that he was a lion-hearted person, a heroic warrior, and the legendary ruler of Punjab. It would not be correct to call him the Maharaja of Punjab, as his empire extended not over the villages and towns of the state but his domain, in reality, was the hearts of the people, whom he ruled and loved. It would be more appropriate to call him the Maharaja of the Punjabis. He was in reality a symbol of the Punjabi culture and a typical representative of the Punjabi folk.
According to Hugel Ranjit Singh's influence over the people amounted to enchantment. Nobody in Panjab objected to his doings with dancing girls, because they were professional. Further, they believed that the king had a right to indulge in such frivolities. His generosity made. him most lovable and did not affect his dignity, honor, and prestige. The Sikh State was popular in Panjab. It was a symbol of a national institution that allowed people of all castes and creeds to live in peace and prosperity from foreign hordes and lawless inhabitants of the land. Hindus and Musalmans were in no humor to quarrel with it because it was a Sikh State. They did not want any revolution. The government also did not want to provoke them beyond a certain limit in the realization of taxes and duties. Thus the rulers and the ruled both remained within bounds.
Popularity of Sher-e-Punjab
He was democratic in his administration and as an individual, he was considered liberal and a generous monarch, who had the knack of owning and endearing people. A historian from Pakistan Wahid-ud-din has paid touching tributes to him. He says:
"His name is still a household word in the province. His portrait is still preserved in the castle and in the cottage. It is a favorite subject with the ivory painters of Amritsar and Delhi. Ranjit Singh still lives, large as life, in the imagination of the people. He does so, not only where the Sikhs now live, but also where they lived before; for, the Muslim village folks shared him as a legendary figure with the Sikhs and they have not let him depart with the latter, Ranjit Singh's popular image is that of a kindly patriarch rather than that of a conquering hero or a mighty monarch. He was all there, but his humanity has outlived his splendor and power.”
The Secrets of Popularity of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
1. Respect for Customs and Practices:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh's respect for the established customs and practices of the people helped garner popularity as it demonstrated his acceptance and protection of their cultural identity.
2. Functioning Panchayats:
Allowing village panchayats to function without interference showcased his commitment to local self-governance, ensuring the voice of the people was heard and contributing to his popularity among the masses.
3. Patronage of All Religions:
By equally patronizing all religions, Ranjit Singh fostered religious harmony and acceptance, gaining widespread admiration and support from diverse religious communities.
4. No Forced Conversions:
His policy of not using force to convert people to Sikhism reflected religious tolerance and freedom, strengthening his reputation as a just and inclusive ruler.
5. Merit-Based Appointments:
Offering positions based on merit, talent, and character without bias promoted a fair and efficient administration, earning him respect and popularity among both officials and the public.
6. Equal Consideration for Religious Shrines:
By treating religious shrines of all faiths equally, Ranjit Singh demonstrated religious neutrality, promoting unity and earning the loyalty of diverse communities.
7. Impartial Administration of Justice:
Ensuring equal justice for all individuals under his rule further enhanced his popularity and solidified his reputation as a just and fair leader.
8. Participation in Fairs and Festivals:
Actively engaging in the cultural celebrations of various communities showcased his inclusivity and respect for diversity, generating goodwill and popularity.
9. Support for Agriculture, Trade, and Industry:
Ranjit Singh's focus on developing agriculture, trade, commerce, and industry contributed to economic growth and prosperity, earning him support and admiration from the people.
10. Assistance during Emergencies:
Providing aid during times of crisis such as floods and epidemics demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of his subjects, increasing their trust and loyalty.
11. Prohibition of Extortion:
By strictly prohibiting extortion by his officials and troops, Ranjit Singh maintained law and order, earning the trust and respect of the people.
12. Dispute Settlement based on Customary Practices:
Resolving disputes according to the established customs and practices of the parties involved ensured a sense of fairness and justice, furthering his popularity among the people.
13. Security of Person and Property:
His emphasis on ensuring the security of individuals and their property instilled a sense of safety and stability, contributing to his overall popularity as a ruler.
Download Life History of Ranjit Singh - by LS Buxi
