Madho Singh Bhandari

Madho Singh Bhandari (c. 1585 – c. 1640) was a famous soldier and leader in the Kingdom of Garhwal in the 17th century. He is remembered for his bravery in war and for building the Maletha Canal in Uttarakhand, India.

 Early life 
Bhandari was born around 1585 in Laludi village, Tehri Garhwal. He came from a family of soldiers who served the Garhwali kings. He learned martial skills and war strategy from a young age.

 Military career 
During King Mahipat Shah’s rule, he became one of Garhwal’s top generals, along with Rikhola Lodi and Banwari Dass. He fought in battles against Tibet and other regions.

 Battle of Chotta Chini 
He died during the Battle of Chotta Chini in Tibet between 1635 and 1640. Tradition says that after being badly injured, he told his men to place his body on horseback so enemies would think he was still alive. This helped his army win the fight.

 Maletha Canal 
Bhandari built the Maletha Canal, about 2 km long, to bring water from the Takoli Gad stream to Maletha. The canal has a tunnel 600 m long cut through rock. A local story says he sacrificed his own son to please a goddess so that the work would succeed.

 Legacy 
He is honored in Garhwali folk songs called Pawara and remembered as a hero who worked for his people’s welfare.

 References 

Category:1585 births
Category:1640 deaths
Category:Indian people