Sher Shah Suri: The Architect of Mughal Administrative Reforms

Sher Shah Suri (1486–1545), born Farid Khan, was a formidable Pathan ruler who briefly but profoundly shaped the Indian subcontinent’s history during his reign from 1540 to 1545. Rising from humble origins, Sher Shah overthrew the Mughal emperor Humayun to establish the Suri Empire, leaving an indelible mark through his military prowess, administrative genius, and visionary reforms. Often overshadowed by the grandeur of the Mughal dynasty, Sher Shah’s short but impactful rule laid the groundwork for many administrative systems later adopted and refined by Akbar the Great. This article explores his life, achievements, and enduring legacy.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Farid Khan was born in 1486 in Sasaram, a town in present-day Bihar, India, to a Pashtun family of the Suri tribe. His father, Hasan Khan, was a jagirdar (landholder) under the Lodi dynasty, but Farid’s early life was marked by familial discord and hardship. His ambition and intellect shone early, earning him the title Sher Khan (Lion Lord) after reportedly killing a tiger single-handedly. Educated in Jaunpur, a center of learning, Farid developed a keen understanding of administration and governance, which would later define his rule.

Sher Shah’s ascent began in the service of the Lodi dynasty and later under Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire. After Babur’s death, Sher Shah capitalized on the instability under Humayun, Babur’s son. By 1539, he had consolidated power in Bihar and Bengal, defeating Humayun at the Battle of Chausa (1539) and again at the Battle of Kannauj (1540). These victories forced Humayun into exile and established Sher Shah as the ruler of northern India, founding the Suri Empire.

Bihar on the Global Stage

Bihar is not often talked about on the global stage, but it has a story worth telling. As of today, Bihar is known for its rich history, growing potential, and challenges that keep it from shining as brightly as it could. While it may not be a global powerhouse like New York or Tokyo, Bihar has unique strengths and struggles that connect it to the world in surprising ways.

Long ago, Bihar was a center of power and learning. Places like Nalanda and Vikramshila were home to some of the world’s oldest universities, attracting students from China, Greece, and beyond. The great Maurya Empire, led by Emperor Ashoka, started here, spreading ideas of peace and Buddhism across Asia. Today, tourists from around the world visit Bodh Gaya, where Buddha found enlightenment, making Bihar a key spot for spiritual travelers. This history shows Bihar’s global influence centuries ago, a legacy that still draws attention.

But Bihar’s present is a mix of hope and hardship. It i/s one of India’s poorest states, with many people working in farming and struggling to make a living. Its economy lags behind global cities because it lacks big industries and modern infrastructure like highways or airports that connect to the world. Floods from rivers like the Ganges and Kosi hit often, damaging homes and crops, and climate change makes this worse. These challenges keep Bihar from joining the global race of fast-growing regions.

Still, Bihar is stepping onto the global stage in small but important ways. Its people, called Biharis, are known for hard work and talent. Many leave the state to work in countries like the Gulf nations, the United States, or the United Kingdom, sending money back home. This makes Bihar part of the global workforce, even if indirectly. Young Biharis are also cracking tough exams to become engineers, doctors, and government officers, some gaining fame worldwide. For example, students from Super 30, a coaching program in Patna, have joined top universities like MIT, showing Bihar’s brainpower to the world.

The state’s leaders are trying to catch up. Plans for better roads, electricity, and schools aim to lift Bihar closer to global standards. Investors from places like Japan and Singapore have shown interest in Bihar’s agriculture and tourism, though progress is slow. On social media, people talk about Bihar’s potential, with some saying it could be a “hidden gem” if given the right push. Others point out its struggles, like poverty and crime, which hold it back from global recognition.

Bihar’s global story is one of past glory, present effort, and future dreams. It’s not a leader in wealth or technology yet, but its history, people, and culture give it a quiet presence worldwide. With time, support, and smart changes, Bihar could surprise the world again, just like it did thousands of years ago. For now, it’s a state finding its place in a big, busy world.

Who Are the Bhumihars

Namaste! As a proud Bihari, I’m delighted to take you on a journey into the heart of one of Bihar’s most fascinating communities -the Bhumihars. If you’ve ever wondered about the intricate tapestry of caste, culture, and history in India, the story of the Bhumihars offers a captivating thread to follow. Rooted in the fertile plains of Bihar and beyond, this community embodies a blend of tradition, power, and resilience that has shaped the region’s past and continues to influence its present. So, let’s dive in and explore who the Bhumihars are, where they came from, and what makes them such a unique part of India’s diverse landscape.

A Landowning Legacy

The Bhumihars, often called Bhumihar Brahmins, Bhuinhars, or Babhans, are a Hindu caste predominantly found in Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, parts of Madhya Pradesh, and even Nepal. The name “Bhumihar” itself tells a story—it comes from the Sanskrit words bhūmi (land) and hāra (one who seizes or holds), pointing to their historical identity as landowners. For centuries, Bhumihars have been tied to the soil, not just as cultivators but as powerful zamindars and rulers of small princely states. In Bihar, names like Bettiah, Tekari, and Hathwa evoke the grandeur of Bhumihar-ruled estates that dotted the landscape in the early 20th century.

Growing up in Bihar, I’ve heard tales of these landed elites—families whose influence stretched across villages, shaping local economies and politics. By the 16th century, Bhumihars had already established themselves as significant landholders in eastern India, particularly in north Bihar. Alongside Rajputs, they became the region’s dominant agrarian powers, a status solidified as Mughal control waned, giving rise to independent Bhumihar-led states like Benares. This wasn’t just about wealth; it was about power, prestige, and a deep connection to the land that defines their identity to this day.

The Brahmin Question

Now, here’s where the story gets intriguing. Bhumihars claim to be Brahmins—the priestly caste at the top of the Hindu varna system. But this claim has sparked debate for centuries. In Bihar, they’re sometimes affectionately called “Babhan,” a term some link to an ancient Pali word for Brahmin, hinting at roots that might stretch back to the Buddhist era of Emperor Ashoka. Yet, unlike traditional Brahmins who focus on priestly duties, Bhumihars have historically embraced secular roles—fighting wars, managing estates, and governing.

This duality has fueled endless discussions. Are they Brahmins who took up the plow and the sword, or Kshatriyas (warriors) who adopted Brahminical customs? Some narratives suggest they emerged from Brahmins who, during turbulent times—like the legendary warrior-sage Parashurama’s campaigns—shifted to landownership, distancing themselves from priestly rituals. Others propose a humbler origin, linking them to indigenous tribes like the Bhuiya, who rose in status through land acquisition and Sanskritisation—a process where lower castes adopt upper-caste practices to elevate their standing.

In colonial records, this ambiguity caused friction. Early British censuses, like those in 1865 and 1881, classified Bhumihars as Shudras (the lowest varna), much to their outrage, given their zamindar status. By the late 19th century, they fought back, adopting the title “Bhumihar Brahmin” to assert their place among the twice-born castes. As a Bihari, I find this resilience inspiring—it’s a testament to how identity in India is both inherited and fiercely claimed.

A History of Influence

The Bhumihars’ story isn’t just about land or caste; it’s about action. During the Mughal era, they served as revenue collectors and military leaders, carving out fiefdoms as central authority weakened. Oral legends whisper of their role in displacing native Bhar and Chero tribes alongside Rajputs and Muslims, reshaping Bihar’s demographic map. By the 18th century, they were a force to be reckoned with, ruling states like Benares, which defied the Nawab of Awadh before becoming a British dependency.

Under British rule, Bhumihars adapted again. While they didn’t join the 1857 rebellion like some Rajputs and Brahmins, they leveraged education and networks to maintain influence. The Bhumihar Brahmin Mahasabha, founded in 1889, became a powerful voice, establishing colleges like the one in Muzaffarpur in 1899—a beacon of learning in a region where education was scarce. By 1920, 10% of Bhumihars in Bihar were literate, trailing only the Kayasthas, another educated elite caste. These efforts weren’t just about status; they were about uplifting a community facing economic challenges like land fragmentation and the Great Depression.

Culture and Contributions

Culturally, Bhumihars are deeply Hindu, yet their practices reflect their practical roots. While some adhere to vegetarianism and Brahminical rituals, others eat meat (except beef and pork), aligning more with Kshatriya traditions. Their surnames—Singh, Rai, Tiwari, Mishra—blend Rajput and Brahmin titles, mirroring their hybrid identity. In Bihar, they’re known for their assertiveness, often described as “dynamic and dashing,” a legacy of their warrior-landlord past.

Their contributions shine in Bihar’s political and social spheres. Figures like Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, a Bhumihar leader, bridged caste divides by founding the All India Kisan Sabha, a peasant movement that challenged landlord dominance—including that of his own caste. Bhumihars have also produced luminaries like India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, whose intellect and humility remain a source of pride for all Biharis.

The Modern Bhumihar

Today, Bhumihars are a diverse lot—about 6% of Bihar’s population, yet their influence looms large. In rural areas, some remain landlords, though land reforms have shrunk their holdings. In cities, they’re professionals—doctors, engineers, bureaucrats—reflecting their early embrace of education. Politically, they’re a sought-after vote bank, with parties vying for their support in Bihar’s caste-driven elections.

But it’s not all rosy. The Bhumihars’ dominance has sometimes clashed with rising “backward caste” groups like Yadavs and Kurmis, leading to tensions and, at times, violence. In the 20th century, Bhumihar-led militias like the Ranvir Sena defended their interests against Maoist uprisings, a stark reminder of how caste and power still intersect in Bihar. Yet, as Shalu Sharma, I see a shift—violence has softened into symbolic assertions of identity, shaped by modern politics and Hindu right-wing movements.

Why the Bhumihars Matter

To me, the Bhumihars are a microcosm of India itself—complex, adaptive, and rooted in history. They challenge rigid caste narratives, blending Brahmin ideals with Kshatriya action, and remind us that identity here is fluid, forged through struggle and ambition. In Bihar, they’re a bridge between past glory and present challenges, embodying the state’s resilience.

So, whether you’re sipping chai in a Patna café or exploring ancient Magadha’s ruins, the Bhumihars’ story whispers through the land. They’re not just a caste—they’re a legacy, one I’m proud to share as a Bihari storyteller. What do you think—does their tale resonate with your view of India’s diversity? Let’s chat about it!

Why Biharis Face Hate on X

The social media platform X has become a battleground for opinions, memes, and, unfortunately, hate. Among the many groups targeted, Biharis—people hailing from the Indian state of Bihar—seem to bear a disproportionate brunt of negativity. From derogatory nicknames like "Bimari" (a play on "Bihari" implying disease) to accusations of criminality and backwardness, the hate directed at Biharis on X reflects a complex interplay of historical, economic, and cultural factors amplified by the platform’s viral nature. This article explores why Biharis are so frequently maligned on X, delving into the roots of anti-Bihari sentiment, the role of migration, stereotypes, and the unique dynamics of social media that fuel this phenomenon.

Economic Disparity and Migration: The Root of Resentment

Bihar, a state in eastern India, has long struggled with economic challenges. With a per capita income of just $936 compared to India’s average of $2,624, Bihar ranks among the poorest states in the country. High poverty rates—30.6% of its population lives below the poverty line against a national average of 22.15%—coupled with a lack of local opportunities, have driven mass migration. Bihari workers, often young men seeking better prospects, have fanned out across India to states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Delhi, taking up jobs in construction, agriculture, and informal sectors.

This migration, while economically vital for both Bihar and the host states, has bred resentment. In wealthier regions, locals sometimes view Bihari migrants as threats to jobs and resources. On X, this resentment manifests as rants about “Biharis taking over” or “ruining our cities.” The economic disparity fuels a narrative that paints Biharis as desperate outsiders, willing to work for less and thus undercutting local labor. For instance, in Tamil Nadu, migrant construction workers earn ₹300-400 daily against a minimum wage of ₹750, a gap that stokes anger among locals who feel cheated—an anger that spills onto X in the form of vitriol.

Stereotypes: From Criminality to Cultural Mockery

Stereotypes play a massive role in the hate Biharis receive on X. Over decades, Biharis have been saddled with labels like “criminals,” “rapists,” or “uncivilized.” These stereotypes aren’t born in a vacuum. Bihar’s history of poor governance, particularly during the 1990s under the Lalu Prasad Yadav-Rabri Devi regime, saw a rise in lawlessness, corruption, and the infamous “bahubali” (strongman) culture. High-profile incidents—like kidnappings or electoral violence—cemented an image of Bihar as a chaotic “jungle raj,” even though the state has made strides in recent years.

On X, these outdated perceptions thrive. Users amplify isolated incidents—like a crime committed by someone from Bihar—into sweeping generalizations. A single news story can spark a flood of posts branding all Biharis as inherently criminal. The platform’s character limit and fast-paced nature discourage nuance, so a complex issue like crime rates gets reduced to “Biharis are the problem.” Cultural mockery compounds this: Bihari accents, dialects like Bhojpuri or Maithili, and traditional practices are ridiculed as “funny” or “backward.” A user might post a meme of a Bihari character speaking broken English, garnering likes and retweets that reinforce the trope.

Regionalism and Political Opportunism

India’s diversity, often celebrated, also harbors regional fault lines, and Biharis frequently find themselves on the wrong side of this divide. In states like Maharashtra, political figures like Raj Thackeray of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) have historically incited violence against Bihari migrants, framing them as cultural invaders. The 2008 attacks on Bihari workers in Mumbai, sparked by such rhetoric, left a lasting scar. On X, echoes of this regionalism persist, with users from wealthier states accusing Biharis of “exploiting” their resources—like Arvind Kejriwal’s 2016 comment about Biharis overloading Delhi’s hospitals, which still circulates as ammunition online.

Political opportunism amplifies this hate. During elections, X becomes a hotbed for partisan mudslinging. Posts from 2024, for instance, noted how non-Bihari BJP supporters mocked Biharis for allegedly voting based on caste rather than development—a narrative that paints them as politically naive. Such posts, often from rival states’ users, blend regional pride with disdain, turning Biharis into scapegoats for broader frustrations about India’s uneven progress.

The Role of X: Amplifying Hate in a Post-Truth World

X’s design and culture supercharge anti-Bihari sentiment. The platform thrives on outrage, where provocative takes—like calling Biharis “majdur” (laborers) or “gali” (abusive)—rack up engagement. Algorithms reward virality over accuracy, so a hateful stereotype can spread faster than a rebuttal. Bots and troll accounts, often used to push propaganda, can amplify these narratives, making them seem more widespread than they are. In a post-truth era, facts—like Bihar’s contributions to India’s workforce or its cultural heritage—struggle against emotionally charged misinformation.

The anonymity of X emboldens users to vent prejudices they might suppress offline. A user from Punjab or Mumbai might hesitate to insult a Bihari colleague in person but feels free to post “Biharis are ruining India” behind a screen. This disconnect creates an echo chamber where hate festers. Communities like “dank memers” or regional chauvinists pile on, turning “Bihari” into a punchline or slur, as seen in comments doubting a well-dressed Bihari’s origins—“You don’t look like one!”

Beyond Economics: Cultural and Historical Baggage

Anti-Bihari hate isn’t just economic—it’s cultural and historical. In non-Hindi states, Biharis face backlash tied to anti-Hindi sentiment, seen as proxies for a Hindi imposition resented in places like Tamil Nadu or Assam. Historically, Biharis in Bangladesh faced massacres during the 1971 war due to their pro-Pakistan stance, a stigma that lingers in some diasporic discourse. On X, this baggage resurfaces in subtle jabs—like calling Biharis “traitors”—that blend old wounds with new grievances.

The Human Cost and Resistance

The hate on X isn’t abstract—it harms real people. Bihari users report feeling alienated, with some proudly embracing their identity in defiance, while others sanitize their accents or origins to fit in. Campaigns like “I Am Brand Bihar” have tried to counter stereotypes, highlighting Bihari achievers—doctors, IAS officers, entrepreneurs—but on X, these efforts often drown in the noise of negativity. The platform’s failure to curb hate speech, as noted in global critiques of its moderation post-Elon Musk, leaves Biharis vulnerable to unchecked attacks.

Conclusion: A Mirror to India’s Fault Lines

The hate Biharis face on X reflects more than just online trolling—it’s a mirror to India’s deeper struggles with inequality, regionalism, and identity. Economic disparities drive migration, which sparks resentment; stereotypes turn resentment into prejudice; and X’s mechanics amplify prejudice into hate. Biharis, resilient and gritty, bear the brunt of a nation wrestling with its diversity. Addressing this requires not just platform reforms but a societal reckoning—one that values labor and humanity over regional pride or viral clout. Until then, X will remain a stage where Biharis are cast as villains in a drama they didn’t script.

Bihar Divas: Celebrating the Spirit of Bihar

Bihar Divas, observed annually on March 22, marks the formation of Bihar as a separate state within India. This vibrant celebration, which began in 2010, commemorates the historic day in 1912 when Bihar was carved out of the Bengal Presidency under British rule. It is a time for the people of Bihar to honor their rich heritage, cultural diversity, and contributions to India’s history, while also reflecting on the state’s journey toward progress and development.

The significance of Bihar Divas lies in its recognition of the state’s unique identity. Bihar, with its ancient roots, has been a cradle of civilization, education, and spirituality. It is home to Nalanda and Vikramshila, two of the world’s oldest universities, which attracted scholars from across the globe centuries ago. The state also holds spiritual importance as the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism, with Lord Buddha attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. Bihar Divas serves as a reminder of this illustrious past, inspiring pride among its people.

Each year, the Bihar government organizes grand celebrations to mark the occasion. The festivities typically include cultural programs, exhibitions, and seminars that showcase the state’s art, music, dance, and literature. Traditional folk dances like Jat-Jatin and Bidesia, along with soulful performances of Chhath geet (songs dedicated to the Chhath festival), fill the air with a sense of nostalgia and unity. These events not only entertain but also educate younger generations about their roots, fostering a deeper connection to their heritage.

Bihar Divas also highlights the state’s contributions to India’s freedom struggle. Figures like Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, and Jayaprakash Narayan, a key leader in the fight against colonial rule, hail from Bihar. Their legacy is celebrated through discussions and tributes during the festivities, reminding citizens of the sacrifices made for independence.

Beyond its historical and cultural significance, Bihar Divas is an opportunity to focus on the state’s modern achievements and challenges. In recent years, Bihar has made strides in infrastructure, education, and economic development, shedding its long-standing image of backwardness. Initiatives like improved road networks, rural electrification, and women’s empowerment programs are often highlighted during the celebrations. However, issues like poverty, unemployment, and migration remain, and the occasion serves as a platform for dialogue on sustainable growth.

The 2025 Bihar Divas, celebrated today, March 22, continues this tradition with enthusiasm. Patna, the state capital, is likely abuzz with events, including a grand inaugural ceremony attended by dignitaries, artists, and citizens. The theme for this year’s celebration could emphasize unity in diversity or sustainable development, aligning with Bihar’s aspirations for the future.

For the people of Bihar, both within the state and in the diaspora, Bihar Divas is more than a historical milestone—it is a celebration of resilience, identity, and hope. It brings together communities to honor their shared past while looking forward to a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow. As Bihar continues to evolve, this day stands as a testament to its enduring spirit and potential.

Crimes in Bihar: A Growing Concern

Bihar, a state in eastern India, has been facing a serious problem with crime in recent years. As of March 15, 2025, reports show that crimes like murder, robbery, rape, and attacks on police are increasing. This has worried the people of Bihar and raised questions about the state’s law and order situation.

One major issue is the rise in violent crimes. For example, in early March 2025, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) named Santosh Kumar Singh was attacked and killed by criminals in Munger district. Around the same time, another ASI was murdered in Araria. These incidents show that even police officers are not safe, which is a big concern. Political leaders like Tejashwi Yadav from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have criticized Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, saying he has failed to control crime despite being in charge of the Home Ministry.

Robberies are also common in Bihar. In Bhojpur, a jewellery showroom was looted in March 2025. The police caught two of the robbers after a shootout, but it shows how bold criminals have become. Similarly, thefts in jewellery stores in Purnia and Ara have been reported, leaving shop owners scared. People on social media, like Independent MP Pappu Yadav, have pointed out that gang wars and robberies are happening too often.

Crimes against women are another serious problem. In Patna’s Paliganj area, a 13-year-old girl was kidnapped and gang-raped by three men in February 2025. They took her to a remote area near the Son River and attacked her. Such cases make families feel unsafe and show that women and girls are at risk in many parts of Bihar. Older data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) in 2021 also showed Bihar had high numbers of crimes against women, with 3,400 cases, second only to Uttar Pradesh.

Why is crime so high in Bihar? Some blame poverty and lack of jobs, which push people toward illegal activities. Others say the police force needs better training and more resources. Political fights also play a role, with parties like RJD and the ruling Janata Dal (United) blaming each other instead of working together to solve the problem. News from Bihar suggest that supporters of certain political groups might even be involved in crimes, making it harder to stop them.

The people of Bihar are worried and want action. Business owners, students, and families feel the impact of this crime wave every day. The government has tried steps like launching a 24/7 police helpline in 2023, but many say it’s not enough. To make Bihar safer, the police need to act faster, courts must punish criminals quickly, and leaders should focus on development to give people better options than crime.

In short, Bihar’s crime problem is serious and growing. It affects everyone-police, women, and ordinary citizens. If things don’t change soon, the state could face even tougher times ahead. The government and society must work together to bring peace and safety back to Bihar.

10 Quotes about Bihar

Bihar is not just a state; it is a civilization that has shaped India's past, present, and future.

From the wisdom of Nalanda to the revolution of Champaran, Bihar has always been the land of intellect and courage.

Bihar’s soil has given birth to scholars, saints, warriors, and leaders-its history is India’s pride.

The essence of Bihar lies in its simplicity, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of its people.

Litti-Chokha is not just food; it is the flavor of Bihar’s rich tradition and heritage.

Where Buddha found enlightenment and Chanakya shaped politics-Bihar remains the cradle of knowledge.

Bihar’s rivers may flood, but its people never drown in despair-they rise, rebuild, and move forward.

Every street in Bihar echoes stories of bravery, from the Mauryan empire to the freedom struggle.

Bihar is where history breathes in the ruins of Vikramshila, and culture thrives in the heart of Mithila.

Biharis carry their roots with pride, proving that no matter where they go, Bihar lives within them.