From the Life in the Sikh Kingdoms collection ·
The full story
Lehna Singh Majithia, also written Lahina Singh, brought an unusual range of abilities to the Lahore court. A commander and administrator, he succeeded his father Desa Singh as governor of Kangra and the hill districts in 1832. He also received foreign visitors and undertook diplomatic missions on the Maharaja’s behalf.
His interests extended to mathematics, astronomy and mechanical invention. The Encyclopaedia of Sikhism records his work with clocks and ordnance, as well as his responsibility for the management of Sri Harimandir Sahib at Amritsar. This combination challenges any neat division between a soldier, an official and a scholar.
The campaign portrait uses court dress and an architectural backdrop to celebrate his standing. It is not an authenticated likeness. The artwork’s phrase “Majithia Misal” is a creative label; the historical account identifies him through the Majithia family and his service at Lahore. Follow the source to discover the inventive person behind the ceremonial image.
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