Diwan Ram Dayal

Diwan Ram Dayal was the governor of the Hazara region in the Sikh Empire from 1819 until his death in 1820 while quelling a rebellion by the Yusufzai tribe of the Pashtuns.

Early life Diwan Ram Dayal was the grandson of Dewan Mokham Chand, the oldest son of Diwan Moti Ram and the older brother of Diwan Kirpa Ram. The family came from Kunjah. Born into a family with a military background, he quickly distinguished himself, displaying bravery and strategic insight from a young age.

Military career In 1814, Maharaja Ranjit Singh decided to invade Kashmir. Diwan Ram Dayal, only 22 at the time, and already distinguished for his ability and bravery, was appointed to lead one division of the Sikh army.

Diwan Mokham Chand had led the Sikh army into Kashmir in 1812. He cautioned Ranjit Singh about going to the valley at that particular time of the year. However, Ranjit Singh chose to ignore the advice. Despite initial setbacks and being left to his own devices when reinforcements failed to arrive, Diwan Ram Dayal displayed resilience and negotiated a truce with Azim Khan Barakzai.

Mokham Chand was too old to accompany the Sikh forces to Kashmir and died in 1814. Ranjit Singh granted his grandson, Ram Dayal, service in place of his grandfather. Ram Dayal was instrumental in various punitive expeditions against rebellious factions and neighbouring territories, earning a reputation for uncompromising leadership and effectiveness on the battlefield.