Raja Quttul Khan of Seorai, Kamsar-O-Bar

Raja Quttul Khan (c.1575-1602), was a zamindar and military leader of the Kamsar region, renowned for his role in the revival and consolidation of the Kamsar realm, which consisted the parganas of Seorai, Qariat Reotipur, Suhawal, Nuaon, Ramgarh, Gahmar tappa, Chausa, Birpur and Kochas. He was the cousin of Daud Khan and a great grandson of Narhar Khan, the founder of the Kamsar region. Quttul Khan is especially remembered for his leadership, bravery, and tragic death, which would go on to inspire Daud Khan’s quest for revenge.

Consolidation of Kamsar Realm

Quttul Khan, after establishing his place as the zamindar of Seorai, sought to restore and expand the Kamsar realm, originally founded by his great-grandfather, Raja Narhar Khan. Under his leadership, the Kamsar Jagir was re-established, encompassing 52 villages in total. One of his major contributions was the construction of a fort and an Eidgah Jama Masjid at Seorai, which served as a key center of administration and defense during his reign. His efforts revitalized the region, contributing significantly to the stability and prosperity of the Kamsar estate under Akbar’s rule. The fort he made was once known for its intelligent architecture. It was spread across 40 bigha (25 acres) and had a canal build around it for security, preventing any one who could invade it. Quttul Khan was a "Panch Hazari mansabdar", meaning he had 5000 foot soldiers and 50 Cavalry men. The main place where he lived was known as "Kot", located in the centre of his fort, where later Seorai Ram Lila maidan is made.

A view of Seorai Eidgah.
The remains of Canals build around Seorai can still be seen in satellite veiw of the town.

Conflict with Man Singh Rai of Reotipur,

Quttul Khan’s reign was not without conflict. He had a long-standing rivalry with Man Singh Rai of Reotipur, a neighboring zamindar. The tensions between them escalated, leading to a violent confrontation. During this conflict, Man Singh Rai betrayed Quttul Khan, killing him under deceitful circumstances. Quttul Khan was not only slain but also had his head severed, which was then taken as a gruesome trophy by Man Singh Rai. This act of betrayal and murder marked the tragic end of Quttul Khan’s life and left a lasting impact on the Kamsar region.

A letter written by Quttul Khan in Farsi and Kaithi lipi, in year 1601 AD.

Legacy and Revenge

Upon learning of his cousin’s death, Daud Khan, Quttul Khan’s cousin, sought revenge. Enraged by the betrayal and murder of Quttul Khan, Daud Khan mounted his horse, armed himself with his sword, and set out for Reotipur. In an epic sword fight, Daud Khan ultimately defeated Man Singh Rai, avenging Quttul Khan’s death by severing his head.

The exchange of severed heads between the two men became a significant event, marking Daud Khan’s loyalty to his fallen cousin and his desire for justice. Following the battle, Quttul Khan’s body was buried separately, while his head was laid to rest in another location. This moment was pivotal not only in Daud Khan’s rise to power but also in shaping the course of the Kamsar Pathan legacy.

Settlements in Dildarnagar Kamsar

He had two sons ,from whom he had a total of six grandsons, they established several villages in Dildarnagar Kamsar region.

A family tree of Quttul Khan.

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