The Source Book On Sikhism

Koh-i-Noor Passes into the Mughal Possession

Ibrahim Lodhi who succeeded his father Sikandar Lodi was very unpopular, being vain, stubborn, suspicious and of cruel disposition. His courtiers being tired of him sent an invitation to Babar, King of Kabul to invade India. The armies of Babar and Ibrahim Lodhi met at Panipat in 1526. A fierce battle ensued in which Ibrahim Lodhi was slain and Hamayun, Baber’s eldest son, was deputed to take possession of the King’s treasure. He ransacked the whole of the royal treasury but did not come across the diamond. He threatened the household servants with dire consequences but they kept mum. At last one of them pointed his finger towards the royal palace. He then entered the palace and found women folk weeping. He assured them that their honour would be safe in his hands and asked the mother of the late King about the diamond. Without speaking a word she went inside and came out with a box which she gave to the young prince with trembling hands. Hamayun opened the box and from inside got out the diamond wrapped in many layers of velvet.

In 1530, Hamayun fell dangerously ill. No amount of medical aid was of any avail. It was suggested to Babar that his dearest possession should be sacrificed to save the life of the Prince. He sacrificed his own life to save that of his son and so the diamond came into the hands of Hamayun.