Some historians have attempted to make an odious comparison between "Tipu Sultan" of Mysore and "Ranjit Singh" the Lion of the Punjab.

Ranjit Singh inherited a ravaged country, devastated towns with minimal industrial activity and a host of inimical neighbors. Though illiterate he has the vision to peep into the future without any delay or dithering he was able to perceive that his first priority was to be an unification of Punjab. He formulated well considered policy  to progressively bring the Sikh, Muslim as  well as the Hindu hill rajas under his tutelage. The system that emerged under him proved to be efficient, effective and geared towards the welfare of the people. His best asset was down to earth knowledge of the affair of his state and his accessibility. It is interesting that having lived through and age of intrigue where the recrimination through murders was not uncommon, Ranjit Singh banned capital punishment in his state. Secularism as conceived and adopted by rulers like Shershah and Akbar had been the outcome of political exigencies but in case of Ranjit Singh It was an article of faith. He didn't declare any religion as state religion. Therefor, toleration and coexistence of all communities ensured. Ranjit Singh didn't declare himself as "Gau Rakshak" but banned cow slaughters in his kingdom. He did much for the glorification of The "Shri Harmandar Sahib" (Amritsar) which was turned into golden temple. He also made liberal grants to the Hindu and Muslim shrines for extensive repairs and maintenance. He was responsive to the scientific advances. He felt an urgent need for modernization of artillery and reorganization of his forces. He encouraged industry and trade. Existing roads were repaired and kacha roads were laid to open up villages. Punjab saw prosperity and glory under Ranjit Singh.

[The glorious reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh] [Nature of  Maharaja Ranjit Singh's polity.] [The relics and jewel of  Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Toshakhana]

All data has been compiled by Point Internet Services for business4india.com on the occasion of 200 years of coronation of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Data courtsey: The Tribune

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