Maharaja Ranjit Singh was virtually the last Indian ruler in Punjab. He lived from 1780 to 1839. He had a mighty well-trained army which was formidable even for the all powerful British forces and the British rulers dared not attack the Punjab during his life time. His army was trained by the French and other European generals.
Although his rule was called the Khalsa Raj, actually his was a secular and equitable state. Fakir Azizuddin who wielded a great power in his cabinet, was a living example of his secular credentials. His kingdom was the true embodiment of Punjabiat.
The statue of this brave son of India riding a horse was unveiled by the Former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee in the Parliament complex on August 21, 2003. One of the highlights of the occasion was a light and sound show captioned “Sher-e-Punjab”, performed by Chandigarh based artiste Harbux Latta. The program focused on the life and achievements of the great Maharaja.
The 22 foot high equestrian statue of the Maharaja was prepared by Ram Satur, who is also the creator of Maharaja’s sculpture installed at Ram Bagh, Amritsar. Ranjit Singh was the illustrious son of Maha Singh. His able general Hari Singh Nalwa sent shivering shudders through the spines of the so-called invincible Pathan rulers.