Kohinoor diamond has been at the centre of diplomatic rows. Know the turbulent journey of this diamond.
Nisha Yadav
It’s a stone that, legend says, should only be worn by a woman or a god; to a man who dares wear it, it will only bring bad luck. But, it adds, one who owns the Kohinoor will own the world.
The diamond is mentioned for the first time in historical texts as belonging to the Rajas of Malwa.
1306
1526
Babur acquired the Kohinoor after defeating Ibrahim Lodi, the last of the Delhi Sultans, in the first battle of Panipat.
Persian general Nadir Shah defeats Mahamad to conquer Delhi and the diamond in 1739 and gives it its now-famous name.
1739
The diamond returns to India when Shah Shuja Durrani escapes from his quarrelling brothers in Kabul, brings it to Punjab and gives it to Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
1813
Maharaja Ranjit Singh dies, leaving the diamond and his kingdom to his sons.
1839-1843
The British win the second Anglo-Sikh War and annexe the Sikh kingdom of Punjab under the Treaty of Lahore and son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh signed kingdom and the diamond over to British.
1849
The diamond is taken to England and showcased to the public. However, after reports of ‘disappointment’ with the stone’s uncut appearance, Queen Victoria’s husband orders the polishing of the Kohinoor which took 38years.
1852
Despite claims of ownership by four countries - India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Britain - the United Kingdom has maintained its ownership over the Kohinoor.
Ever Since
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