Zaman Shah Durrani

Zaman Shah Durrani became the third ruler of the Durrani Empire after the death of his father, Timur Shah. His accession was contested by his brothers, leading to a period of internal strife. He initially consolidated power by executing or imprisoning rivals.

Zaman Shah launched multiple invasions of the Punjab region, aiming to reassert Afghan control over the Sikh territories. He captured Lahore in 1798 but was forced to withdraw due to threats from Persia and internal rebellions. His campaigns failed to achieve lasting gains.

Zaman Shah was overthrown by his half-brother Mahmud Shah Durrani in a coup. He was captured, blinded, and imprisoned. This act of blinding was a common practice to disqualify a rival from rule. Zaman Shah spent the rest of his life in captivity.