Unraveling Why the Mughals Failed to Conquer Nepal

The ongoing unrest in Nepal has brought to light various historical questions, one of which revolves around the Mughal Empire’s inability to conquer this mountainous nation. As protests against the government led to the overthrow of Prime Minister KP Oli, discussions about national identity, unemployment, and corruption also evoke a historical inquiry: Why did the Mughals, who dominated much of North India, fail to incorporate Nepal into their empire?

Several factors contributed to this outcome, including strategic, political, and topographical elements that made Nepal a challenging target for Mughal expansion. Understanding these can shed light on the historical dynamics of the region.

Topographical Challenges

Located in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal’s rugged terrain posed significant obstacles for the Mughal forces. The country is characterized by high mountains, deep valleys, and narrow paths, creating a natural fortress that was difficult to penetrate. The strength of the Mughal army lay in its cavalry and heavy artillery, which would have been less effective in the mountainous warfare that would have been necessary in Nepal.

In contrast, the Nepali Gorkha warriors were well-versed in guerrilla tactics, making them formidable defenders of their territory. Their expertise in navigating the challenging landscape gave them a distinct advantage over the Mughal forces, who were not accustomed to such conditions.

Strategic and Political Considerations

From a strategic perspective, the Mughal Empire prioritized fertile plains and economically advantageous regions. Areas such as the Ganga-Yamuna Doab, Bengal, Gujarat, and the Deccan were viewed as much more valuable compared to the harsh and resource-limited geography of Nepal. The Mughals were focused on consolidating power in regions that could yield significant economic benefits.

At the time, Nepal was fragmented into smaller states. Despite this division, these states would unite in the face of external threats, presenting a united front against potential invaders. The region also served as a crucial trade route for the Tibet-India exchange, which led the Mughals to value trade relations over military conquest. Maintaining peaceful relations with Nepal was seen as more beneficial than engaging in conflict that could disrupt commerce.

Cultural and religious factors further complicated the relationship between the Mughals and Nepal. The people of Nepal were deeply rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, viewing external Muslim rule as a potential cultural threat. This cultural identity fostered a sense of resistance against foreign domination.

In addition to these challenges, the Mughal Empire faced ongoing struggles on multiple fronts, particularly against the Afghans, Iranians, and Marathas. In this context, a difficult and less rewarding area like Nepal did not become a priority for their expansion plans.

The historical narrative of the Mughals and Nepal underscores the complexities of regional politics, geography, and culture that shaped the subcontinent. As Nepal navigates its current political turmoil, this historical perspective adds depth to the understanding of its national identity and resilience.

The ongoing protests highlight the challenges facing contemporary Nepal, with over 21 protestors reported dead amidst calls for reform. The connection to historical events only emphasizes the enduring spirit of the Nepali people as they seek to determine their own future.