Bir Hambir

[1][2][3] Hambir was the 49th ruler of the Malla dynasty who flourished around 1586 AD and ruled in 16th-17th century, and was a contemporary of the Mughal emperor Akbar.

Displaying remarkable courage, Bir Hambir rescued Jagat Singh from the battlefield and ensured his safe return to Bishnupur.

[5][6] Bir Hambir was a notable king of Bishnupur in the 16th century, and his reign is often linked to the Baro-Bhuyans, a group of twelve powerful landlords in Bengal.

Although not one of the Baro-Bhuyans himself, Bir Hambir's role as a regional ruler put him in direct opposition to the expanding Mughal Empire.

His military strength and strategic alliances with other local chiefs played a vital role in defending his territory from external threats, including Mughal forces.

During a time when Bengal was divided among various local rulers, the Baro-Bhuyans were significant players in regional power struggles, often acting as a collective force against the Mughals.

Bir Hambir's efforts to preserve the sovereignty of Bishnupur reflected the broader aspirations of the Baro-Bhuyans, making his reign an important part of the local resistance against the Mughal centralization of power in Bengal.

[9] During the Pathan rule of Sulaiman Khan Karrani in Gaur, the kingdom of Bishnupur stood in a unique glory in the Rarh region of Bengal.

Revered Fakir Narayan Karmakar Mahasaya writes - "Dawood Khan suddenly came and encamped at a village called Ranisagar near Bishnupur with more than one lakh soldiers and similar ammunition.

The army of Bishnupur, intoxicated with the dream of victory, proceeded to subdue the enemy by worshiping the Maa Mrinmayee, the kuladevi of Mallabhum.

[11] It is said that Hambir Malla cut off the heads of the invading Pathan soldiers, made a garland (mundamala) and offered it as a gift to the demon-destroying Maa Mrinmayidevi.

[13] During the reign of Bir Hambir the Dal Madal, one of the largest-bored cannons even made, was founded, demonstrating the skill of artisans of that time.