MCQ Detailed View

The Second Battle of Tarain is one of the most significant turning points in medieval Indian history. It was fought between Muhammad Ghauri, the ruler of the Ghurid Empire from present-day Afghanistan, and Prithviraj Chauhan, the powerful Rajput king of Ajmer and Delhi.

This battle took place near the town of Tarain (modern-day Taraori in Haryana), just a year after their first encounter. In the First Battle of Tarain in 1191 AD, Prithviraj Chauhan had emerged victorious, forcing Ghauri to retreat. However, Muhammad Ghauri returned the following year with better strategy, stronger planning, and more disciplined forces, leading to a completely different outcome in the second battle.

Key facts about the Second Battle of Tarain:

• Year: 1192 AD


• Rulers involved: Muhammad Ghauri (Ghurid Empire) vs. Prithviraj Chauhan (Chahamana dynasty)


• Location: Tarain (now Taraori, Haryana)


• Result: Victory for Muhammad Ghauri


• Impact: Led to the beginning of Muslim rule in North India

Muhammad Ghauri used deception and tactical military formations to mislead the Rajput army. His cavalry launched repeated attacks from the flanks, gradually weakening the Rajput center. Eventually, Prithviraj was captured and later executed. This defeat marked the collapse of organized Rajput resistance in northern India and opened the door for future Islamic invasions and rule in the region.

The victory at Tarain allowed the Ghurids to establish a stronghold in India, which later gave rise to the Delhi Sultanate under Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Ghauri’s trusted general. This battle reshaped the political structure of the Indian subcontinent and began centuries of Muslim rule in India.