The Sur Empire was established by Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan ruler from Sasaram in Bihar, after defeating the Mughals. His reign marked an era of strong administration, economic prosperity, and infrastructure development.
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Rise of Sher Shah Suri
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Born as Farid Khan, he earned the title ‘Sher Khan’ after killing a tiger single-handedly.
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He served under the Afghan rulers of Bihar and gradually rose to power.
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Defeated the Mughal emperor Humayun in the Battle of Chausa (1539 CE) near Buxar and again in the Battle of Kannauj (1540 CE).
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Established the Sur Empire, ruling from Delhi, with Bihar as one of its strong bases.
Administrative Reforms
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Introduced a centralized administration with efficient control over provinces.
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Revenue System: Implemented a land revenue system based on measurement of land (zabt system). Revenue was fixed according to fertility and crop yield.
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Currency Reform: Issued the famous silver coin ‘Rupiya’, considered the forerunner of the modern Indian rupee.
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Maintained a standing army with direct payment in cash, ensuring loyalty and discipline.
Infrastructure and Public Works
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Constructed the Grand Trunk Road (GT Road) from Bengal to Punjab, improving trade and communication.
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Built sarais (rest houses), wells, and gardens along highways for travelers.
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Developed Patna and Sasaram as important administrative and cultural centers.
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His tomb at Sasaram is considered an architectural masterpiece of Indo-Islamic style.
Military Strength
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Maintained a well-organized army and introduced reforms in recruitment, branding of horses, and direct payment to soldiers.
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Strong defense policies prevented Mughal re-entry into India during his rule.
Decline of Sur Empire
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Sher Shah Suri died in 1545 CE during the siege of Kalinjar fort.
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His successors, including Islam Shah, failed to maintain the empire’s strength.
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The empire weakened due to internal conflicts, paving the way for the Mughals under Humayun and later Akbar to re-establish power.
Legacy of Sher Shah Suri
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Remembered as one of the greatest administrators in medieval India.
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His reforms in revenue, currency, trade, and communication laid the foundation for the Mughal system later perfected by Akbar.
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His vision of governance influenced even the British in their administrative structures.
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Bihar, as his homeland, remained a symbol of his glory and architectural achievements.